LINCOLN—The Lincoln Police Department is continuing to investigate a controversial $2.5 million no-bid emergency contract awarded by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development in 2024. State Auditor Mike Foley flagged the contract, which went to a bioeconomy consultant and lobbyist known to Gov. Jim Pillen, saying it raised concerns about possible favoritism. Foley alleged the state failed to adequately justify why the contract was considered an emergency, allowing officials to bypass competitive bidding requirements for contracts worth more than $50,000.

Foley also alleged that state officials attempted to mislead the Auditor’s Office during its review, which could constitute a misdemeanor. His findings were initially referred to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office and Nebraska State Patrol, but the State Patrol transferred the investigation to Lincoln police because of a potential conflict of interest. Pillen’s administration has defended the contract, arguing that quickly securing the consultant was necessary because of deadlines associated with federal funding.

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