LINCOLN- Governor-elect Jim Pillen is gearing up to be Nebraska's next governor, and after making some key staffing decisions, he seems to be eyeing the state's budget.

During an interview at the State Capitol, Pillen stated that he "will listen to [his] partner, Joe Kelly" when making the decision whether to build Gov. Rickett's proposed $270 million prison to replace the aging State Penitentiary.

Besides that, Pillen is also seeking to develop a budget targeting property tax reduction and school funding reform, wrapped inside a fiscally conservative two-year budget proposal.

Kelly, who was elected as Lieutenant Governor on the same ticket as Pillen, was Lancaster County Attorney for seven years before becoming a U.S. Attorney for three.

Pillen also stated that he's comfortable with opening up discussion for immigration reform in Nebraska, which may allow the state to accept more refugees, a possible solution for Nebraska's workforce shortage.

"We need to make sure there's a pathway," said Pillen, Nebraska is a melting pot for people from all over the world, people of different colors speaking different languages. Refugees have a great home here." However, Pillen is also focused on "keeping our kids here."

Pillen stated that he also plans to stay in Columbus for most of his tenure and does not plan on moving into the Governor's residence in Lincoln. "I expect to spend the majority of time in Columbus, being with family and neighbors. Four grandchildren live next door," said the Governor-elect.

Pillen has been speaking with senators as well in preparation for next year's legislative session, and believes "it's important to build relationships. There are a lot of new senators. We're all newbies."

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