MARCH 2025
MARCH 2025
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Welcome to Douglas County Connection, a monthly newsletter for Douglas County employees. This newsletter aims to foster stronger connections within our organization by informing you about important updates, community events, and noteworthy achievements across our County departments. Have a story idea? Email newsletter@douglascounty-ne.gov.
DOUGLAS COUNTY NEWS
The latest news from Douglas County
Starting in 2025, Douglas County will activate outdoor warning sirens ONLY in areas under immediate threat—not countywide. Click above to read more about this new policy.
Douglas County Commissioner Chris Rodgers, Omaha City Councilwoman Juanita Johnson, Senator Terrell McKinney, and community leaders Ernest White and Rodney Johnson have announced $237,811 in grant awards to support 37 impactful projects in North Omaha!
The Douglas County Board of Commissioners has appointed Michael Goodwillie as the Douglas County Assessor/Register of Deeds to serve the remainder of the 2023-2026 term following the passing of the late Walt Peffer.
SCAM ALERT: Scammers are impersonating Douglas County officials and soliciting funds for an incarcerated person's release. It's important to know that Douglas County Corrections NE will never initiate a call to solicit funds for an incarcerated person's release.
The Douglas County Board of Commissioners recently proclaimed March 2025 as Women's History Month in Douglas County, Nebraska! The Board was honored to have Laura "Bird" Kuhn, head coach of the Omaha Supernovas, attend the meeting to emphasize the power of women’s sports in inspiring and empowering women of all ages.
Douglas County extends our heartfelt condolences to everyone at the Nebraska State Patrol for the loss of Trooper Kyle McAcy. Our thoughts are with Trooper McAcy's family, friends, and colleagues.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS NIGHT
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS NIGHT
You're invited to attend the Omaha Lancers' game against the Tri-City Storm
this Saturday, March 8, at 6:05 p.m. at Liberty First Credit Union Arena in Ralston.
Last Call for $12 Tickets for the Omaha Lancers
"It's OK to not be OK."
That’s the message Douglas County will share as we partner with the Omaha Lancers Hockey Team and other community behavioral health organizations for a special Mental Health Awareness Night at an upcoming Omaha Lancers home game.
All Douglas County employees are invited to attend the Omaha Lancers' game against the Tri-City Storm this Saturday, March 8, at 6:05 p.m. at Liberty First Credit Union Arena in Ralston.
All Douglas County employees and their families receive a special discounted ticket rate of $12 at this special link: https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/MentalHealthLancers
The Douglas County Community Mental Health Center will be recognized during the event for its longtime commitment to behavioral health and making a positive impact on the people of Douglas County.
Bring your family and friends out for a fun night as we raise awareness of mental health resources in the Douglas County community.
Get your discounted tickets now at:
https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/MentalHealthLancers
We hope to see you there!
DOUGLAS COUNTY UNVEILS NEW WEBSITE
DOUGLAS COUNTY UNVEILS NEW WEBSITE
Douglas County has unveiled a redesigned website with improved navigation, accessibility, and mobile-friendly features, making it easier for residents to access County services and information.
Douglas County has a brand-new digital home! As of Monday, March 3, 2025, the County’s official website, douglascounty-ne.gov, has transitioned to a modern, user-friendly WordPress platform, replacing the previous Joomla system. This upgrade brings a more streamlined, accessible, and visually appealing experience for residents and employees alike.
Don't worry, all existing content remains available with a refreshed design that makes navigating and finding key information easier. While the main County website has launched first, all department web pages will gradually migrate to the new template in the coming months.
Thank you to DOTComm and Dianne Wallace, Douglas County’s IT Coordinator, for making this transition possible. A well-designed, intuitive website is essential for serving our community, and this update ensures that Douglas County remains accessible and responsive to residents’ needs.
We’d love your feedback! If you have any website suggestions or notice anything that could be improved, please email Leia Baez, Douglas County’s Communications Director, at leia.baez@douglascounty-ne.gov.
Please take a moment to explore the new site. We hope you enjoy its fresh look and enhanced functionality as much as we do!
DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT
DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT
Shannon McVaney joins Douglas County as the new assistant director of the Douglas County Emergency Management Agency
Shannon McVaney, assistant director, Douglas County Emergency Management Agency
Douglas County welcomes Shannon McVaney as assistant director of the Douglas County Emergency Management Agency (DCEMA)
Douglas County is pleased to introduce Shannon McVaney as the new assistant director of the Douglas County Emergency Management Agency (DCEMA). A Nebraska native, McVaney brings more than a decade of experience in emergency management, with a background spanning multiple states and large-scale emergency operations.
Originally from Elkhorn, McVaney began her career in Sarpy County before moving to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she gained experience managing major events like Husker football games. She later spent six years in Boulder County, Colorado, where she was involved in significant emergency incidents, including the Marshall Fire—the most destructive wildfire in Colorado history—the King Soopers mass shooting, and multiple natural disasters.
"These experiences gave me a strong foundation in Emergency Operations Center operations, large event operations, collaboration with multiple agencies, and supporting communities in the aftermath of devastating events," McVaney said. "Growing up in Nebraska, I experienced severe weather firsthand, and events like the Columbine shooting, 9/11, and Hurricane Katrina solidified my commitment to emergency management."
McVaney first stepped into public safety more than 20 years ago in Creighton University’s paramedic program, training with the Omaha Fire Department and area hospitals. Her passion for serving the broader community led her to emergency management, where she now ensures Douglas County’s preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.
As assistant director of the Douglas County Emergency Management Agency, she oversees the Emergency Operations Center’s operational readiness, ensures compliance with regulations, develops emergency response plans, and enhances community preparedness through education and training. "My priority is ensuring the Emergency Operations Center is fully operational and strengthening relationships with agencies and communities we support. Emergency management is all about collaboration."
McVaney emphasized that emergency managers are often behind the scenes, ensuring first responders have the resources they need. "Many think we’re first on the scene, but much of our work involves planning, coordination, and support."
Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities with her dog, paddleboarding, and watching sports. "I’m excited to serve Douglas County, ensuring we’re prepared for any situation and fostering strong partnerships to enhance our emergency response efforts."
With her experience and commitment to public safety, McVaney is a valuable addition to the Douglas County Emergency Management Agency, dedicated to building a more resilient community.
Winner of our free drink giveaway, courtesy of Scooter's
Jaye McAtee: Spreading Positivity, One Fist Bump at a Time
Jaye McAtee: Spreading Positivity, One Fist Bump at a Time
If you've ever walked into the Civic Center, the Justice Center, or the Douglas County Courthouse, chances are you've been greeted with a smile, a fist bump, or a few words of encouragement from Jaye McAtee. As a civilian security officer with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Jaye has spent the past 10 years ensuring the safety of County buildings—but more than that, he’s been a bright light to employees and visitors alike.
With contagious energy and a commitment to kindness, Jaye sees his role as more than just security—he sees it as an opportunity to uplift others.
“I always ask myself—what do I want to focus on, negative or positive? I enjoy life much better in a positive frame of mind. For me, it takes work to stay upbeat. But it is worth the effort tenfold. I am very passionate about how people treat each other. Please choose wisely how you treat others. I believe we are put on this planet to help others, not hinder them.”
That positive mindset has guided Jaye throughout his career and personal life. Whether offering a friendly greeting or a word of encouragement, his goal is simple: to make someone’s day just a little bit better.
Outside of work, Jaye enjoys staying active. He’s a sports enthusiast who loves golf, tennis, hiking, and watching games. While he thrives on human connection, he also appreciates moments of solitude. As he nears retirement in about a year, his focus is clear—prioritizing his mental, physical, and spiritual health.
Next time you see Jaye, don’t forget to return the fist bump—you might find your day a little brighter because of it.
Tech Tip: Gmail Edition
All employees have access to "Offer Times You're Free" feature
A Faster Way to Schedule Meetings in Gmail!
A Faster Way to Schedule Meetings in Gmail!
Are you tired of the back-and-forth emails trying to find a meeting time? Gmail’s new “Offer Times You’re Free” feature makes scheduling effortless! All Douglas County employees with a County-issued email address can access this feature.
Here’s how you can use it to save time:
✅ Compose a new email (or reply to one)
✅ Click the Calendar icon at the bottom of your message (you may need to click the three dots for more options to see the calendar icon, then hover over the "set up a time to meet")
✅ Select “Offer times you’re free”
✅ Choose your available time slots directly from your calendar
✅ Click “Add to Email” to insert the options into your message
Once you send the email, the recipient can select a time that works for them. As soon as they confirm, the meeting will be automatically added to both calendars—no more back-and-forth emails!
Try it out today and take control of your inbox! For a printout guide on this feature, click here:
https://bit.ly/41szZOB
For questions about this new feature, please email dianne.wallace@douglascounty-ne.gov
HR NEWS
HR NEWS
The latest news and important information from Douglas County Human Resources
Civil Service Commission
Civil Service Commission
Meet your 2025 Members!
Denise Lickei, Commission Chair *Republican
Assistant Chief Deputy, Assessors/Register of Deeds
Todd Pfitzer, Elected Official *Republican
Engineer
Dan Esch, Elected Official *Democrat
Clerk/Comptroller
Tyrone Harper, Employee Rep *Democrat
Pretrial Services Supervisor, Douglas County Corrections
William Vlcek, At-Large Representative
Company Owner
New Employee Training Requirements - 2025
New Employee Training Requirements - 2025
Employees will be receiving an email with directions to access these new trainings in TalentLMS.
Required training includes:
Workplace Bullying Prevention Made Simple
Diversity Made Simple
Legal Email and Text Messaging at Work
Legal Social Media at Work - Employee Version
Harassment Prevention Made Simple
Reminder! FSA Deadline Approaching
Reminder! FSA Deadline Approaching
The deadline to rollover unused 2024 Medical and Limited FSA funds is March 15th.
Employees can only roll over up to $640.
Need help accessing your account?
Go to https://benefitslogin.wexhealth.com/, hover over Solutions and select Participants/Employees.
This page provides login buttons for accessing your online account, along with helpful resources like a benefits knowledge base, a link to current eligible expenses, and chat.
Need to Update Your W-4 Forms? It's simple!
Need to Update Your W-4 Forms? It's simple!
Update your tax withholdings through your NeoGov account
Log into www.neogov.com
Click on "Forms" and then "Quick Links"
Having trouble logging in?
Email hrforms@douglascounty-ne.gov or call 402-444-6189 to have the NeoGov Link sent to you.
Student Loan Benefit - Savi
What can Savi do for you?
Save you money on your monthly payments
Create a clear path to apply for student loan forgiveness programs
Provide answers to all of your student loan questions through educational webinars and customized support
Keep you updated on new programs and policy changes
For more information or to sign up click here.
Allows employees to make payments on large purchases through payroll deductions.
Get more information and sign up here!
Sword Thrive - Digital Physical Therapy
Virtual Physical Therapy at no cost to you!
Customized physical therapy sessions prepared by a Physical Therapist in the comfort of your home.
Sign up through the Sword Thrive website.
Welcome New Employees!
Welcome New Employees!
Clerk
Shemar Nutt
Clerk of the District Court
Rich McGowan
Community Mental Health Center
Krystal Harrison
Sasha Mayo
Friday Tut
Dennis Apedjinou
Pema Zellmann
Corrections
Kai Newson
Renee Pond
Yaz Devers
County Attorney
Nissa Jones
Election Commission
Tim Kelly
Emergency Management
Shannon McVaney
Health Center
Betty Ketchmark
Sam Borham
Dzimbanhete Chembwa
Tasha Cohen
Shadriana Jones
Kimberly King
Felicia Wilson
Santasia Smith
Kyle Marsden
Angel Kean
Shelbie Pavon
Sonia Sanchez
Precious Townsell
Aseria Windom
Siham Hashi
Public Defender
Krystena Scott
Congratulations!
Congratulations!
RETIREMENTS
Tim Dolan - County Attorney
Mark Kueny - Purchasing
Joseph Pedevillano, Jr. - Sheriff
PROMOTIONS
Kristan Money - Community Mental Health Center
Sara Legler - Corrections
Andrea Samper Rodriguez - Corrections
Tia Drinkhouse - Corrections
Sidnee Rasmussen - Corrections
Timothy Watkins - Corrections
Haley Tyler - Corrections
Jacqueline Lopez - Corrections
Elizabeth O'Connor - County Attorney
Ayawa Ahnert - Health Center
Jessica Ozuna Ventura - Health Center
Gerald Lebrun - Health Center
Melissa Pena - Sheriff
Amanda Mersch - Sheriff
COMMUNITY EVENTS
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Free (or cheap) Family-Friendly Events in Douglas County This Month
FAMILY FUN
Pi Day at The Riverfront
March 14
Noon – 3 p.m.
FREE
Lewis & Clark Landing, Omaha
https://theriverfrontomaha.com/events/?eventid=8100
Ralston Plant Swap
March 16
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
FREE
Barn Girls Farms, 5306 S. 73rd St., Omaha
https://www.facebook.com/events/593229317020572/
OUTDOOR EVENTS
St. Patrick's Day Parade
March 8
10:45 a.m.
FREE
15th & Jackson Streets, Omaha
https://aohomaha.com/parade/
Roller Skate at The Skate Ribbon
Daily after March 8
Hours vary
FREE with your own skates or $5 for adult skate rental and children 12 and under can rent skates for $4.
8th and Farnam Streets, Omaha
https://theriverfrontomaha.com/visit-the-riverfront/heartland-of-america-park/
ART
Visit The Joslyn Art Museum
Open daily Tuesday through Sunday
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
(closes at 8 p.m. on Wed & Thur)
FREE
2200 Dodge St., Omaha
https://joslyn.org/visit/calendar
Decorate a Shamrock Cookie & Storytime
March 14
11 a.m.
FREE
The Learning Express, 120 Regency Pkwy, Omaha
https://www.facebook.com/events/1304138897531231/
JOB POSTINGS
JOB POSTINGS
Recent job postings from Douglas County Human Resources
Do you know someone that is interested in joining Douglas County? Refer a friend! With 22 different departments serving our community, there is something for everyone! Check out our full list of open positions and submit applications on the Douglas County Careers page.
Internal Audit Director
Internal Audit Director
Compensation: $8,649.69 - $13,839.50/Month
Bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college in Accounting, Business Administration, Public Administration or related field required.*
Five (5) years of related experience required.
Two (2) years of auditing experience required.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or equivalent preferred.
Valid driver's license and own transportation upon hire and maintained throughout employment required.
Completion of a pre-employment criminal record check and conditional offer drug screen required.
*Equivalent combination of work experience and education may be substituted for requirements on a year-for-year basis.
Click here to view the full job description and submit your application
Buyer
Buyer
Compensation: $26.38/Hour
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in business administration, public administration or related field required.
One (1) year of experience in purchasing including bids and RFP required.*
Public sector purchasing preferred.
Oracle e-Business Suite experience preferred.
Online bidding experience preferred.
Valid driver’s license and own mode of transportation at the time of hire and throughout employment required.
*Approved, related work experience required may be substituted for educational requirements beyond high school on a year-for-year basis.
Click here to view the full job description and submit your application
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
In case you missed our recent social media stories, here’s a look at what we are sharing with our online community.
Click on the photos below to read the full story!
The routine monthly tests are schedule from March through October with individual siren soundings that may occur throughout the year for maintenance. More information on severe weather preparedness is available at readydouglascounty.org
The Douglas County Sheriff's Office (NE) Explorers are getting hands-on experience with handcuffing techniques, firearm safety, radio procedures, and patrol work!
The Douglas County Board of Commissioners recently recognized Joseph Pedevillano who retired after an incredible 40-year career in law enforcement, including 15 years with the Douglas County Sheriff's Office (NE)!
Meet Your Newsletter Team!
Employee Giveaway!
Win a FREE DRINK from Scooter's
Want to win a FREE coffee or a drink of your choice from Scooter's Coffee? Email us a photo of yourself and tell us what you love about your job at newsletter@douglascounty-ne.gov.
Winners will be randomly chosen from all submissions, so don’t miss your chance! Be sure to send your entry by March 19th at 4 p.m. Central.
Special thanks to this month's giveaway sponsor:
Contact us:
Contact us:
Do you have a story idea for our newsletter or want to highlight an employee or colleague?
Email us at: newsletter@douglascounty-ne.gov
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