Growth Amid Challenges

In her first State of the City address, delivered on Wednesday evening at the Smith Center for Performing Arts, Mayor Shelley Berkley focused on Las Vegas’s ongoing expansion and assured residents that cuts to federal funding would not compromise public safety.

“Las Vegas has an extraordinary future. We are growing, and we’re innovative and committed to being successful,”

Berkley highlighted that while the city faces challenges linked to its growth, she prefers addressing a growing populace over a declining one. She acknowledged recent state budget issues, including a rise in contributions to the state retirement fund and lower-than-expected consolidated tax revenues.

Commitment to Public Safety

Amid potential federal funding cuts, Mayor Berkley reassured the community that the city would maintain its commitment to public safety. She remarked:

“Let me assure everyone, we will not cut our commitment to public safety, nor its budget.”

However, the mayor noted the challenges already faced due to funding cuts, specifically mentioning the termination of federal funds for the AmeriCorps Program, which impacts educational services for pre-kindergarten students.

Addressing Homelessness

Berkley reiterated her administration’s focus on tackling homelessness, which she described as “dangerous” and “inhumane.” The mayor pledged support for the Campus for Hope, a significant initiative aiming to provide comprehensive services for homeless individuals, funded through state and casino industry partners.

The city is actively investing in programs, including the Courtyard Homeless Resource Center, but Berkley expressed concern that the homelessness issue continues to worsen each year.

Following her speech, she indicated ongoing discussions with local homeless support organizations to enhance mental health and substance abuse services, alongside job training aimed at assisting the homeless population.

Plans for Future Development

The mayor also highlighted several revitalization projects in areas such as Civic Plaza, Symphony Park, and the Historic Westside. Berkley stressed the importance of improved transportation, affordable housing, and healthcare access to better serve the growing community.

Emphasizing the future generation, she advocated for a curriculum in the Clark County School District that prepares students for an increasingly technological society, thereby attracting families and new businesses to the area.

Conclusion

Mayor Berkley concluded by expressing optimism about Las Vegas’s future, stating, “When anybody asks, what is the state of the city, my answer is, Las Vegas is fabulous, and our best years are ahead of us.” She encouraged community involvement to turn shared dreams into reality.