Heath Mello, Coordinator for the Metropolitan Community College Foundation and former senior aide to Nebraska ’s Senator Ben Nelson, is running for the Nebraska Legislature from District 5. Mello is supported by outgoing State Senator Don Preister, who is unable to run for re-election due to term limits.

“My South Omaha roots and working-class background gave me the values of hard work, community, and personal responsibility that will guide me in the Legislature,” said Mello. “I’ll be a voice for my district’s priorities: safer neighborhoods, property tax relief, and stronger schools and businesses. The only way to secure District's 5 future is through innovative investments that will revitalize our community.”

While still in college at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Mello worked on former Governor Ben Nelson’s campaign for the United States Senate in 2000. That campaign sparked his desire for public service and his realization that, with the proper leadership, government can be a tool to help those who work hard and play by the rules. Mello went on to work for Senator Nelson, both in his Senate office and on his re-election campaign in 2006.

Legislative District 5 includes voters from South Omaha and North Bellevue.