Plan to expand redevelopment area is met with skepticism

The prospect of an enlarged Las Vegas redevelopment area received a cool reception Tuesday, with West Las Vegas residents wondering why the supposed economic benefits haven't materialized there while large projects are under way elsewhere.

The chief concern was jobs. One of the goals of a redevelopment area, which is set up to encourage private investment in struggling areas, is to match residents of the area with jobs created by the investment.

The city of Las Vegas has not measured up to its own goals in that category, acknowledged Bill Arent, the city's business development director.

"That's something we're working on," he said, noting that state law only requires that a "best effort" be made, and that there's no penalty for failing.

"We don't think that's enough," Arent said. "We're actually going to have a much stronger policy."

But the 70 or so attendees of the meeting at Doolittle Community Center were more interested in what hasn't happened than in what's going to be.

"They haven't been met for any of the projects that have been awarded," said state Sen. Steve Horsford, D-Las Vegas, referring to the jobs goals. Without a clear demonstration of benefits, he said to general applause, "I for one do not believe that this expansion should occur."

Las Vegas is considering adding to the existing 3,900-acre redevelopment area. It would add 690 acres in Wards 3 and 5, including more of historic West Las Vegas, a community generally bordered by Carey Avenue on the north, Bonanza Road on the south, Interstate 15 on the east and Rancho Drive on the west. Also proposed is a new 874-acre redevelopment area in Ward 1, mostly along Decatur Boulevard from Sahara Avenue to Meadows Lane.

Tuesday's meeting was the first of several that are scheduled for community input.

"We really need to hear from you," said City Councilman Ricki Barlow, who represents Ward 5. "This isn't anything we're trying to force upon the community. This is a proposal."

Arent listed several redevelopment and redevelopment-related projects near West Las Vegas, including a new bank branch, a new grocery store, improved business storefronts and the relocation of Cox Communications to the neighborhood.

Still, those accomplishments are overshadowed by larger projects nearby, such as the Smith Center for the Performing Arts and the new city hall, both under construction.

There are existing businesses that need help before new businesses should get incentives, said longtime resident Gene Collins.

"I would like you to consider these businesses ... before you do anything else," he said. "Let's take care of the businesses that are already established."

Arent said the city is already meeting with some of those businesses, including the Town Tavern casino and the Seven Seas restaurant, and said he was willing to meet with residents again in 60 to 90 days to discuss progress.

Contact reporter Alan Choate at achoate@reviewjournal.com or 702-229-6435.