Name                             Danny Begley

Occupation                   Claims Representative

Education                     Attended Metro Community College and University of Nebraska Omaha

Political Affiliation        Democratic

Website                       www.dannybegely.com

What are your connections to the community?

I was born and raised in district 3 and it's where I raised my own family. My father Dan was a mail carrier, my mother Mary Kay served as a Director on the MUD Board and they instilled the importance of hard work and public service in me and my brothers.  I grew up in Gifford Park and attended St Cecilia's-Cathedral and now live in Morton Meadows. I've spent my career advocating for fair wages, benefits, and safe working conditions as a union leader. I have worked for OPPD for many years and am looking forward to continuing to serve the district in this new role.

What experience do you bring to the office?

As a claim's representative at OPPD I know how to balance the needs of the public utility our customers owners.  I'm skilled at problem solving in difficult situations involving competing interests and know how to find solutions that work for everyone. In my capacity as a union leader, I have experience with crafting budgets and contract negotiation and know how to provide the needed balance between workers and employers which will be critical in helping Omaha meet community needs without breaking the budget.

What would one of your top priorities be?

We need to focus on improving our city infrastructure and providing living wage jobs. The number of unemployed and underemployed people has skyrocketed during this pandemic and the council needs to lead the way on our recovery. I will work to advance projects that improve our infrastructure like our roads and provide fair pay and safe working conditions.

What motivated you to run for public office?

My family has a long history of public service. I know government can be a force for good in the lives of people when we focus on community needs. My mother served, my brother Jim is currently serving on the MUD Board,  and I serve on the NRD Board of Directors. I want to continue the family tradition of service and bring my unique set of skills to the city council.

What’s the biggest issue that Omaha faces?

We have under invested in our city infrastructure. We need more funding for road improvements, parks, libraries, and we need an economic recovery plan to help us recover from the pandemic. I will work to make the necessary investments and create jobs to help get Omaha back on track.

Is there anything else you want to tell voters?

My 4 children all graduate from Holy Cross grade school, three are currently at Creighton, my oldest graduate Creighton and is at the College of St Mary’s earning her PA master's degree. My great uncle John taught business for 50 years at Creighton.  My dad delivered mail 45 years and my mother’s first teaching job in Omaha was at Tech High school. All of these are in the district which is my family’s home!