Bill

LR 92

Extend sympathy to the family of former Senator Don Wesely

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Beau Ballard and 2 co-sponsors

Nebraska Legislature honors former Senator Don Wesely with a ceremonial resolution recognizing his public service and extends condolences to his family.

Adopted

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Bill Summary · LR 92

LR 92 – Memorial Resolution Honoring Don Wesely

Overview

LR 92 is a ceremonial legislative resolution adopted by the Nebraska Legislature in the First Session of the 109th Legislature. Introduced on March 27, 2025, the measure extends sympathy to the family of former Senator Don Wesely and honors his public service and contributions to the state.

Purpose and Key Provisions

Purpose: To recognize Don Wesely’s life, public service, and impact on Nebraska, and to extend condolences to his family.
Provisions:
1. The Legislature honors the memory of Don Wesely for his personal accomplishments and service to Nebraska.
2. The Legislature extends its sympathy and condolences to the family of Don Wesely.
3. A copy of the resolution is to be sent to the family of Don Wesely.

Background on Don Wesely (as cited in LR 92)

Born in David City, Nebraska; graduate of Northeast High School; earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 1977.
Served in the Nebraska Legislature from 1979 to 1999, elected at age 24; chaired multiple committees (Rules, Retirement, Economic Development, Health and Human Services).
Elected as mayor of Lincoln in 1999, serving as the city’s 49th mayor.
Notable achievements as mayor include: opening Haymarket Park baseball/softball stadiums, a parking garage, a pedestrian bridge, revival of minor league baseball in Lincoln, and approval to begin the Antelope Valley Project (a $200 million initiative).
Also oversaw local initiatives such as opening two libraries, two public pools, two parks; acquiring 300 acres of park land; building 12 miles of new trails; and opening the F Street Community Center.
After public office, remained active as a lobbyist and public servant.
Don Wesely passed away on March 19, 2025.

Procedural History and Status

Introduced: March 27, 2025
Laid over: March 27, 2025
Cosponsors added: DeKay (March 28, 2025); Ballard (March 31, 2025)
Adopted: April 3, 2025
Signed by: President/Speaker on April 3, 2025
Status: Adopted

Impact and Implications

Direct Effect: Creates a formal, ceremonial acknowledgment of Don Wesely’s life and his service to Nebraska, and conveys the Legislature’s condolences to his family.
Beneficiaries: Wesely’s family and the broader Nebraska community that he served; the measure serves as a historical record of his contributions.
Nature of Bill: As a resolution, it carries symbolic significance and does not enact policy changes or funding. It serves to preserve a record of tribute and remembrance within the official legislative transcript.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.