Speaking for Nevada - September 2006

Predicting Their Cities' Future

We asked the mayors of the five largest cities in Nevada to answer the following question: "If you were reading the lead story in the local newspaper five years from now, what would be the ‘hot news’ about your city?"

Robert Cashell, Reno

"As Nevada continues to lead the nation in population growth for 25-plus years, Reno has solidified its place as the ‘Biggest and Best Little City in the World’ and ranks among the nation’s top-five most livable cities. Reno’s leadership has remained committed to a true live/work community, and downtown Reno has experienced a revitalization that has not been seen since the 1950s. Gone are the old boarded-up motels, and in their place have risen new luxury high-rises, shopping boutiques and lively restaurants and lounges. People from all over now flock to downtown for its vibrant arts and culture district, including the nationally recognized Truckee River Whitewater Park."

Oscar Goodman, Las Vegas

"Even though he had already served three terms, Mayor Oscar B. Goodman is back in office after Las Vegas residents overwhelmingly voted him mayor for life. Goodman, who also serves as general manager of the professional sports team the Las Vegas Oscars, attributes some of his popularity to his recent success in the draft. As general manager of the Oscars, Goodman used the No. 1 draft pick to select a local star who should propel the Oscars to many championship seasons inthe future. Las Vegas fans went wild when the choice was announced and showered the mayor with hugs and kisses."

James B. Gibson, Henderson

"Henderson has become a remarkable city where people can really live, work and enjoy raising their families. With the city’s focus on ‘new urbanism’ and creating connected, walk-able neighborhoods, Henderson has become the premier city in which to live, work and play in the Southwest. People see an exciting new look in Henderson’s downtown and more mature areas to draw them to the heart of the community. The city’s focus on respecting and incorporating its desert heritage provides an even greater sense of connectivity across the whole city. Henderson will continue to flourish as one of the fastest growing, best managed communities in the nation."

Geno Martini, Sparks

"The City of Sparks, now with 100,000 residents, tops Nevada’s cities as the most innovative and progressive, but remains a family-friendly place known for its special events. The Sparks Marina and the surrounding attractions offer a recreational destination for visitors throughout the region. Victorian Square, the state’s first redevelopment district, has been revitalized and has become one of the most popular locales for dining, shopping and living in the Truckee Meadows. The design and construction of neighborhoods in Sparks continue to offer residents an ambiance and setting unmatched anywhere in Northern Nevada. And satisfaction with city services remains above 95 percent."

Michael Montandon, North Las Vegas

"The North Las Vegas commercial market is booming. With the efforts North Las Vegas has put into infrastructure, transportation and quality economic development, combined with the burgeoning population, the city has become a hotbed for commercial development. As more residents seek to enhance their quality of life by commuting less, business owners want to locate their businesses closer to their employees and customers. The tight real estate market brings creativity to the forefront, and commercial and retail uses are being incorporated into many residential communities. The city continues to focus resources on cleaner, safer communities and a business friendly environment. The combined effort is causing businesses to say, ‘This is the place to be.’"