A Lifetime of Service and Vision for Omaha

Tim Pendrell, a true South Omaha Boy (S.O.B.), represents a steadfast commitment and a positive vision for District #7. Growing up in South Omaha, Tim Pendrell's first job was like that of many local kids, working at the Henry Doorly Zoo in 8th grade. His story, grounded in the community from the very start, reflects a genuine connection to our home. Just like his mom, who served as a waitress at Leisure Lanes Cafe, Tim's path from our neighborhood streets to experiences around the world and back again shows his deep-rooted commitment to where he comes from.

From Gross Catholic to Global Citizen, Back to Serve Omaha

Tim's dedication to serving the community ignited right here in the lively heart of South Omaha, especially during his participation in the graffiti wipeout project at Gross Catholic High School. Working side by side with his neighbors to restore the beauty of their neighborhood was a pivotal moment for Tim. It was during this time that he met Mike and Anne Boyle, whose dedication to public service deeply inspired him and solidified his own desire to make a significant impact.

This early inspiration in community service led Tim to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where his commitment to broader social issues, particularly civil rights, became more pronounced. He played a key role in organizing student opposition against the Defense of Marriage Act, showcasing his early resolve for equality and justice. His academic journey, focusing on Economics and Asian Studies, expanded his perspective even further, taking him on a nearly two-year journey across the globe. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the vibrant landscapes of Vietnam and the resilient communities in Nepal amidst civil unrest, Tim's time abroad significantly deepened his comprehension of global issues, enriching his perspective on how such challenges resonate within our own community and highlighting the interconnectedness of our local and global environments.

Concluding his undergraduate journey with the Nebraska at Oxford program, Tim significantly broadened his worldview. This experience reinforced his determination to harness his global insights for Omaha's advancement. Each international journey deepened his understanding of the complex interplay between global economies and cultural diversity, further solidifying his commitment to the community that shaped him.

A Year of Service, A Lifetime of Impact

During the height of the housing crisis, Tim returned home and embarked on a year of national service with AmeriCorps/VISTA, dedicating his efforts to Habitat for Humanity of Omaha. This period was not only the start of his hands-on journey in grant writing but also a crucial time for deep community engagement and organizational strengthening. Amidst the challenges of the crisis, Tim's work went beyond home construction, focusing on the broader mission of community revitalization and resilience. His dedication to Omaha's neighborhoods during this critical time laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to community betterment.

This commitment led Tim to deepen his knowledge in public policy and urban planning, pursuing a Master of Urban Planning at NYU, with a specialization in Housing Policy and Economic Development. Motivated by a desire to bridge global insights with local action, Tim's graduate studies were aimed at equipping himself with innovative strategies for community development, inspired by best practices from around the world. His goal was to return to Omaha with fresh, effective solutions tailored to meet the unique challenges of our community amidst and beyond the housing crisis.

After completing graduate school, Tim Pendrell embarked on a diverse professional journey that further honed his skills and deepened his commitment to public service. He initially took on the role of Executive Director for a rural Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, where he championed local business growth and community development. Following this, Tim explored the entrepreneurial landscape, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners.

Tim's path then led him to the Department of Correctional Services, where he served as a Grant Administrator. In this capacity, he managed the Vocational and Life Skills grants alongside federal grants, playing a crucial role in supporting rehabilitation and reintegration programs for individuals in the correctional system.

Building on this varied experience, Tim transitioned to legislative work, becoming the Committee Clerk for the Nebraska Retirement Systems Committee. His expertise was further recognized in his role as an aide to Senator Mike McDonnell on the Appropriations Committee, where he was instrumental in navigating fiscal policies and contributing to the state's economic strategies. These roles underscored Tim's ability to work across different sectors and his dedication to making a meaningful impact in our community and beyond.

Creating Economic Revitalization

Collaborating with the late Congressman Brad Ashford, Tim leveraged his strategic insight and legislative acumen to develop the Shovel-Ready Capital Recovery and Investment Act. This pivotal legislation directed $55 million into Legislative District #7 alone, catalyzing not only immediate economic growth but also laying a foundation for long-term community development.

Catalyst for Workforce Innovation

In the Nebraska Legislature, Tim was instrumental in aligning state initiatives such as the ImagiNE Act and Inland Port Authorities with the federal CHIPS for America Act. This alignment was aimed at rejuvenating the U.S. semiconductor industry, crucial for both economic growth and national security. Through direct collaboration with semiconductor companies, Tim formulated policies to draw this vital industry to Nebraska, supporting the state's legislative framework to contribute to the U.S. ambition of reclaiming semiconductor industry leadership. His advocacy for a $20-million investment in Metropolitan Community College further demonstrates his dedication to equipping the local workforce with the necessary skills to meet the demands of this advanced industry, positioning Nebraska as a significant player in the national semiconductor manufacturing strategy.

Driving Regional Economic Growth

Tim's legislative work extended well beyond our district, significantly impacting Nebraska's economic landscape. His crucial involvement in crafting key legislation resulted in a substantial $300 million investment in the Project NeXT at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), complemented by a $20 million funding for the NC3 project. The NC3 initiative, a joint effort between state and federal entities, aims to update the coding systems for the United States' nuclear deterrence capabilities, with a focus on enhancing Nuclear Command, Communications, and Control (NC3) systems. This project underscores the importance of cutting-edge technology and cybersecurity in maintaining the reliability and effectiveness of the nation's defense infrastructure. The breadth of these investments goes beyond financial implications, marking significant advancements in job creation, technological innovation, and strengthening Nebraska's economic position.

Balancing Progress with Fiscal Responsibility

Tim Pendrell's legislative accomplishments are underpinned by a steadfast commitment to fiscal responsibility, achieved through collaboration with the appropriations committee. This approach has ensured that Nebraska's significant economic investments align with a balanced budget, contributing to the state's outstanding fiscal health. The disciplined financial stewardship of South Omaha's outgoing Senators Mike McDonnell and Tony Vargas, both key members of the appropriations committee, deserves special recognition. Their efforts have been instrumental in paving the way for future investments in public education, tax relief, and job creation, particularly through support for small businesses and union apprenticeship programs, thereby fostering sustainable economic growth and community development in Nebraska.

Championing Job Creation, Workforce Development, and Environmental Justice

Tim Pendrell's legislative initiatives reflect his holistic approach to leadership, seamlessly integrating job creation, workforce enhancement, and forward-thinking environmental strategies. His proactive measures to address the replacement of 16,000 lead service lines in East Omaha, coupled with initiatives to train local residents to lead these efforts, showcase his innovative approach to turning public health challenges into avenues for job creation and community advancement.

Running on a platform centered on "creating jobs," Tim's proven track record in the Nebraska Legislature vividly demonstrates his ability, foresight, and dedication to not only envision but also actualize a prosperous future for Omaha and the broader Nebraska community.

Visionary Leader for South Omaha and Downtown Omaha

Tim Pendrell's journey is deeply intertwined with the vibrant tapestry of both South Omaha and Omaha's dynamic downtown and urban core—areas characterized by their resilience, diverse communities, and a collective ambition to elevate every resident's quality of life. His candidacy transcends a mere political campaign; it's an extension of his lifelong dedication to nurturing and advocating for the neighborhoods that define the heart of our district.

We invite you to stand with Tim Pendrell, a leader whose endeavors mirror the spirit and aspirations of our entire district, encompassing the rich cultural heritage of South Omaha and the bustling energy of downtown Omaha. Together, we have the opportunity to forge a future that not only pays homage to our shared legacy but also propels us towards a thriving, inclusive tomorrow.