Las Vegas mayoral candidates Shelley Berkley and Victoria Seaman participated in a 90-minute forum where they discussed several key issues, including the long-running land-use dispute over the Badlands golf course. Both candidates agreed that resolving this matter would be a top priority if elected.
Berkley, a former member of Congress, and Seaman, a current city council member, provided contrasting views on how to approach the Badlands issue. Berkley emphasized the need for new leadership to move the city council towards a resolution, while Seaman highlighted her efforts to end the litigation and protect taxpayers’ interests.
In addition to the Badlands dispute, the candidates also discussed topics such as public safety, homelessness, and affordable housing during the forum. Both candidates expressed their commitment to working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of the community. Seaman highlighted her endorsements from law enforcement organizations, while Berkley emphasized her past collaborations with the police.
When it comes to affordable housing, Seaman and Berkley shared their support for initiatives that would increase housing opportunities for residents. Seaman emphasized the importance of providing incentives to developers to expand affordable housing, while Berkley praised a recent city council ordinance that aimed to ease development restrictions for this purpose.
On the issue of homelessness and mental health, both candidates acknowledged the need for improved services to address these interconnected challenges. Seaman proposed collaborating with organizations like Haven for Hope to provide resources for those in need, while Berkley emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to tackle homelessness in the city.
In terms of improving medical services, Seaman expressed her goal of bringing a standalone children’s hospital to Las Vegas, while Berkley discussed a feasibility study she was working on with Intermountain Health to build a new hospital. Both candidates highlighted the importance of enhancing medical facilities to meet the needs of the community.
Overall, the forum provided voters with insights into the candidates’ priorities and approaches to key issues facing Las Vegas. As the election approaches, residents will have the opportunity to decide who they believe is best suited to lead the city and address these critical challenges.