St. Paul farmer sworn in as District 41 senator

LINCOLN, Neb. — A St. Paul farmer and former member of the State Board of Education has been sworn in as District 41’s newest senator.

Governor Jim Pillen announced his appointment of Fred Meyer to the Nebraska Legislature on Wednesday.

“Fred has strong community ties and possesses a public servant mentality,” said Gov. Pillen. “He has held positions on many ag and economic development groups. Fred was on the St. Paul Board of Education, where he won election to two terms following his appointment. Fred will do an excellent job representing the constituents of District 41.”

Secretary of State Bob Evnen administered the oath of office Wednesday.

The seat has been vacant since Oct. 31, after former Senator Tom Briese was appointed state treasurer.

“Sen. Briese has done excellent work representing District 41 for the past seven years, in particular, his advocacy for property tax relief,” noted Meyer. “I am humbled that Gov. Pillen appointed me for this role and I look forward to serving in the Legislature.”

Meyer will serve the remainder of Briese’s term through 2023. Pillen said he does not intend to run for election to that seat in 2025.

The governor said Meyer was born and raised near West Point. He currently operates a farm near St. Paul. Meyer graduated from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln with degrees in animal science and agriculture education.