CLARK COUNTY COMMISSION D

An established Democratic incumbent is taking on an independent candidate who has never held office but is no stranger to political races.

Independent American Tom McGowan, 76, who has made three unsuccessful bids for Las Vegas mayor, is up against Lawrence Weekly, 44, who is going for his first full term as a Clark County commissioner.

McGowan said he doesn't see himself as competing against Weekly for the District D seat because the pursuit should not be about one personality pitted against another. His aim, he said, is to offer voters a fresh approach to policymaking.

"I'm not running against anybody," McGowan said. "I'm running for the office of County Commission. I'm running for change for the better."

Weekly said he wants to continue his work with the community for another four years. And he wants to serve as an elected, rather than appointed, leader.

"You get the voters' nod ... that's important," Weekly said. "I don't take that lightly. I'm a native Nevadan. I respect where I grew up."

Weekly was on the Las Vegas City Council for seven years. In January 2007, Gov. Jim Gibbons appointed him to replace Yvonne Atkinson Gates, who resigned from the County Commission.

McGowan, who is retired, said the days of high-end developments are over, which means elected leaders can't sit back and wait for the area's quality of life to improve.

Many residents are losing their jobs and their homes, he said. This in turn has caused an exodus that is hurting businesses and the housing market.

"People are leaving town as we speak," McGowan said. "I haven't seen a lot of people coming in to replace them."

To counter that trend, government leaders must create affordable housing and cultivate renewable resources to lower energy costs, he said. Also, if the county fostered more master-planned communities instead of scattered enclaves, residents could save on fuel because they would have many of the stores they need nearby.

"I consider myself not only the best candidate for the job, but perhaps the only candidate," McGowan said.

Weekly noted that the district is one where social issues are prominent and ribbon-cutting ceremonies are relatively rare.

The county hospital, courts and family services are within this district, Weekly said, giving him added incentive to keep them financially strong. If the state cuts the budget too sharply on social services, then lives are lost and children suffer, he said.

Weekly said he also wants to avoid layoffs at government agencies, or anywhere for that matter.

For that reason, he often talks with state leaders to ensure they understand the community's plight and grasp the consequences of slashing funds, Weekly said.

"I'm trying to effect change in a positive way," Weekly said. "Trying to save folks' lives. Save children."

Contact reporter Scott Wyland at swyland@reviewjournal.com or 702-455-4519.