Today's Opinions

Often, people accuse the media of having an agenda. And in the Optic’s case, they are absolutely right. Our agenda is simple: Promote open government.

On Jan. 26, Las Vegas resident Leith Johnson submitted a public records request to the city government for “all records pertaining to the collection of the one-fourth of 1 percent gross receipts tax specially to be applied to water.”

She asked, “How much has been collected since the (tax) law was passed? How much interest has been earned on the money? How has any or all of it been used?”

I am writing this letter to gain the attention of the Luna Community College Board of Trustees and administration. I have made several attempts to meet with the vice president of academics and the president and have been unsuccessful in getting my calls returned or meetings set up.

Last week, board members of MainStreet Las Vegas took it upon themselves to canvass business owners and residents who will be directly impacted by the Grand Avenue Streetscape Project. We talked with 27 businesses and one resident; we were not able to meet with four residents and two businesses.

We asked, Which alternative do you prefer: the four-lane alternative or the two-lane alternative?

Of the 28 surveyed, 27 agreed that the two-lane alternative will have a beneficial impact on their businesses and provide improved safety and beautification opportunities.