LAS VEGAS -- The leading candidates vying for the Las Vegas mayor's seat talked about job creation, downtown redevelopment and making Las Vegas more family-friendly.
Larry Brown, Victor Chaltiel, Carolyn Goodman, Chris Giunchigliani, and Steven Ross took part in a forum at the 8 News NOW studios Sunday night. During the one-hour show, the candidates were asked about what they would do to diversify the economy and create jobs.
County Commissioner Giunchigliani said she would use redevelopment money to loan to small mom and pop businesses that are having a hard time getting loans from banks. She also wants to see a studio built. "We're the entertainment capital of the world. One thing we ought to be doing is building or finding a business to come in and build a state-of-the-art production studio. That could be on the 61 acres next to the Smith Center.
Carolyn Goodman, the wife of current Mayor Oscar Goodman, said she would like to get the community more involved in cultural arts and develop the east side of the downtown area.
City Councilman Steven Ross said cutting out the red tape for new employers would be key. "By giving tax incentives and tax credits to businesses large and small that hire new employees today," he said.
The political newcomer, Victor Chaltiel, talked about his years as a venture capitalist and said he would make Las Vegas more business-friendly. "Breaking down the red tape, breaking down the bureaucracy and create a far more welcoming environment," said County Commissioner Larry Brown.
All said they would like to see major sports arena be being in Las Vegas even if it wasn't in the downtown area but none were in favor of using any public money. Chaltiel went further than the other candidates on the issue saying there are untapped international opportunities. "I have a dream to make Las Vegas the center for soccer in America," he said.
