Dec. 6, 2023 (Lincoln, Neb.) – Governor Jim Pillen has appointed Richard Meginnis of Lincoln and Heath Mello
of Omaha to serve on the Nebraska State Highway Commission. Created to ensure public input in the planning,
design and operation of the state highway system, the Highway Commission acts as a liaison between the public
and the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT).
“These new appointments to the Highway Commission bring a valuable new perspective to Nebraska’s
infrastructure needs and compliment the mission of NDOT,” said Governor Jim Pillen. He also announced the
reappointments of David Copple (NDOT District 3), James Kindig (NDOT District 4) and Greg Wolford (NDOT
District 7) to the Highway Commission.
Meginnis, a Lincoln native and President of NAI FMA Realty, will serve District 1 which includes Richardson,
Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson, Otoe, Cass, Gage, Lancaster, Saunders, Butler, Seward, Saline and Johnson
counties. Meginnis succeeds Mary Gerdes, whose official appointment ended in September after serving on the
Commission since 2015. Meginnis’ term runs through Sept. 13, 2029.
Mello, a former state senator, is president and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber. “I’m always looking for ways
to bring new economic opportunities to the state and infrastructure is vital in doing so. I’m honored to represent
District 2 and work with the other commissioners and NDOT to do just that,” Mello said.
Mello will serve District 2 which includes Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties. Mello’s term will run
through Sept. 13, 2025.
“With these recent appointments, all eight districts are now represented, and the timing is imperative given the
federal funding opportunities available,” said David Copple, Chair of the Highway Commission. “It’s good to see
NDOT pursue innovative funding sources to meet Nebraska’s transportation needs that are currently outpacing
its existing funding structure.”
Regular meetings are scheduled throughout the year and are open to the public for input. Information about the
State Highway Commission and how to find the Commissioner for your district can be found the NDOT website
