Listen to our May 19 interview with Donna Miller on the podcast.
Donna Miller, a transport nurse and business leader, answers our questions below.
In April, City Cast Las Vegas invited all qualified mayoral candidates to respond to a questionnaire so that our readers could get to know them a little better. All candidates were sent the same questions, and given a 600 character-count limit. As you'll see, some questions are a little more policy-oriented and some are a little more fun!
Read the rest of the questionnaire responses here.
1. What is the single most pressing issue facing the City of Las Vegas? Why?
"I believe the most pressing issue in Las Vegas is water scarcity due to our reliance on the Colorado River. Our growing population and climate change exacerbate this challenge. To ensure sustainability, we need citywide water conservation, diversification of water sources, advanced recycling, and incentives for reduced usage.
"By taking these steps, Las Vegas can address water shortage challenges and secure a reliable water supply for residents and businesses in the future."
2. Why is the Mayor of Las Vegas an important role for everyone living in the Valley?
"Las Vegas is a global city, and the mayor of the City of Las Vegas’s has influence that extends far beyond our city’s borders, shaping international perceptions of our entire valley, impacting not only the City of Las Vegas but our entire valley's reputation on a global scale.
"At a local level, issues don’t recognize borders, and decisions made by the mayor of the City of Las Vegas affect our entire valley, such as transportation, safety, and homelessness, and economic growth, directly impacting the well-being and future of Las Vegas as a whole."
3. Buskers at the Fremont Street Experience: yea or nay?
"Yes. Buskers on Fremont Street in Las Vegas bring cultural vibrancy and entertainment, attracting tourists and offering economic opportunities for performers. However, they can also cause congestion, noise, safety concerns, and regulatory challenges.
"Balancing the pros and cons requires careful management and community engagement. Effective regulation and designated performance areas can help maintain a positive and safe environment for both performers and the public, enhancing the cultural and economic fabric of Fremont Street."
4. Should the Tesla tunnels expand to the City of Las Vegas?
"Yes. Expanding public transportation is vital for our city, as it can alleviate traffic congestion, enhance air quality, and provide better mobility for our residents and visitors.
"The Tesla tunnels project offers a promising solution without placing direct financial strain on local government or taxpayers. We just need to manage logistical and regulatory challenges effectively. And we need to ensure that the project is part of a comprehensive strategy that incorporates various public transportation options to meet the diverse needs of our community."
5. What’s your position on rent control?
"Rent control helps make rent affordable and stable, but it reduces the number of available rentals, causing problems in the housing market. To balance things out, we must find win-win solutions.
"And to do so, we need to consider setting reasonable rent caps, offer incentives for property upkeep and new construction, enforce maintenance standards, and encourage collaboration between tenants and landlords. This would foster affordability, stability, and fairness in the rental market."
6. Oscar Goodman has the martini glass. What would your mayoral trademark be?
"An Interactive Mayor’s Challenge Coin – I would combine my military appreciation with civic pride by issuing a mayor’s challenge coin. These coins would be given out not just as tokens of appreciation but as symbols of community and resilience, incorporating elements from my diverse roles and the cultural heritage I cherish."
7. What was Carolyn Goodman’s greatest accomplishment as mayor?
"Mayor Carolyn Goodman will be known for revitalizing downtown Las Vegas, promoting local business growth, and attracting investment to the city."
8. What’s the best meal you’ve ever had in Las Vegas?
"Given my preference for local eateries, I must say the best meal I've had was the chicken schnitzel and sautéed potatoes at Beso Bulgarian restaurant."
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