ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 34
As Drea Parenti-Perez and Richard Deeds campaign in the Republican primary for the opportunity to face William Horne, the Democratic incumbent of the Assembly 34 seat, the state's budget crisis weighs on their minds.
Deeds, a Realtor who ran two years ago for county recorder, believes more huge budget cuts are practically inevitable.
"What we have to do is find a way to retain essential services and reduce spending," Deeds said.
Deeds, 61, said he won't ask the citizens to give more: "I have signed a pledge that I will not raise taxes."
According to Deeds, the Democratic-controlled Assembly doesn't have citizens in mind.
"They're spending on everything," he said, making it particularly difficult for young people to move ahead because of high taxes and fees.
Parenti-Perez, a legal assistant and former teacher for the deaf, says new funding is unlikely but it is critical that monies be found to ensure that public safety in the district improves.
"I've noticed a decline in that area," she said, noting that homeownership in the district has also declined.
Parenti-Perez, 30, a resident of the area for eight years, says that if she wins the Assembly seat she wants residents to come to her to express their problems and concerns.
"I believe I would be the closest representative to the people," she said.
In addition to incumbent Horne, the winner of the Republican primary will face Libertarian William Hols in the November general election.
Contact reporter Paul Harasim at pharisim@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2908.
VOTERS GUIDEASSEMBLY DUTIES The duties of Assembly members include passing state laws, approving the state budget and reviewing the performance of state agencies. They serve two-year terms. Candidates who prevail in this year's election will be paid $8,760 for the first 60 days of the 120-day regular legislative session. They also will receive $155 a day for living expenses and reimbursement for certain other expenses. -- REVIEW-JOURNAL
