Dan Harney

My wife and I first moved to Gilroy in 2011 after falling in love with Gilroy, we purchased our home GUSD Area 3 neighborhood.   

We have four children ranging in ages from 8 years to 18 years. Our children have  attended Luigi Aprea elementary, Brownell middle school and Christopher high school.

Our family has always been part of the community participating in Gilroy recreation sports, school events and many of the community activities.  

Public Service

In 2015, I was appointed to Gilroy City Council and served for 3.5 years. During my tenure I was elected by Council to be Mayor Pro Tempore. My portfolio included:

  • Negotiated Police and Fire labor contracts to ensure public safety and service levels
  • Approved Community Development Block Grants to rehabilitate low income housing
  • Served as founding Board Member of Silicon Valley Clean Energy to provide clean energy options for all of Gilroy
  • Delivered Capital Improvement Plans to restore and rehabilitate roads, parks and community assets
  • Developed policies to promote economic development and investments in our historic downtown
  • Served on VTA policy advisory board to improve public transportation to south county (Morgan Hill, San Martin and Gilroy)

Gilroy Gardens- Volunteer

Chairman- Board of Directors Gilroy Gardens 501 (c)3

Gilroy Gardens is non-profit 501 (c)3 with a mission to educate young people on the importance of our environment, horticulture and how we can improve our community and habitat. We are the largest youth employer in South County with over 400 employees.

Working closely with our volunteer Board of Directors and our Management team, and Docents, we have created a sustainable business plan that ensures the long-term protection of this park for our community.

Read more about my role in the Gilroy Gardens 2025 Impact Report