Mayoral Mondays wouldn’t be complete without catching up with Carolyn Goodman, the outgoing mayor of Las Vegas. City Cast Las Vegas co-host Dayvid Figler engaged in a spirited conversation with the city’s top politician, tackling a wide range of topics. Here’s just a taste.
What policies or accomplishments are you most proud of during your tenure?
“I think the most important thing that I take greatest pride in is helping to build out our security. There is no community in the world people will live in or move to that isn't safe. You're not going to raise a family, you're not going to invest in it. Safety, for me, has always been number-one and it will remain that.”
We all understand that the City of Las Vegas doesn't run the school district. But what specifically do you believe has been your contribution as mayor to better education for Las Vegas residents?
“Well, my background is in education … I built a school from a blank piece of paper that is now celebrating its 40th year. (The Meadows School). When I became mayor, one of the first meetings I had was with the superintendent to see what we as a city could be doing — and like other cities around the country, have some power and control over our own schools.
“We were able to have safety programs, before-school and after-school programs, and I worked very hard to enrich those schools with more tutoring, drama (classes), and activities that would keep children involved and interested in their education … We now have four preschools and Strong Start Go — buses that go into the more challenged neighborhoods.”
Mayor Carolyn Goodman at the opening of the Fontainebleau. (Ethan Miller/Getty)
What's your biggest accomplishment in transportation?
I sit on the RTC, the Regional Transportation Commission, and I'm extremely proud of that involvement … I insisted that once a visitor or resident came into the city, into the Downtown area, that they would have free transportation. The Downtown Loop (bus shuttle) … The advertising pays for everything.”
We have two candidates running for mayor. Who's gonna get your vote?
“That's for me and my booth.”
Fair enough. Any advice for whoever wins?
“Love Las Vegas. Love the people. Love the faiths that are shared. Love the differences in all our people — and be truthful. Don't just be a political person that's always looking toward the next job or ‘what's in it for me?’ This isn’t about me. This is about us.”
- That’s just a hint of more to come. Listen to City Cast Las Vegas and hear the mayor share her thoughts on why she was banned by Caesars Entertainment over an incident with Britney Spears, reflections on the Badlands fiasco, and assessments of the city’s efforts to curb homelessness. [City Cast Las Vegas 🎧]
