Debates planned in Las Vegas mayoral race; candidates complain about transparency, exclusion

By Delen Goldberg

Monday, Feb. 14, 2011 | 4:34 p.m.

The Las Vegas mayoral race has so far been all about name recognition and splash.

Now, the candidates say they will start talking about issues.

They are heading out into the community to find out what's on residents' minds and plan to face off in four debates.

Already, there is controversy.

Clark County Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani sent a letter Monday to four downtown business groups urging them to open their upcoming debate to the public and press. The private event is scheduled for Feb. 23 and is being hosted by the Downtown Las Vegas Alliance, Downtown Business Operators Council, Fremont Street Experience and Fremont East Board.

"I don't believe debates among public candidates should be private," Giunchigliani said. "I want the city government's work to be done in the open, and that should start with the campaign."

Other candidates are upset about not being asked to debate at all.

Conservative group Citizen Outreach invited the six leading candidates - Giunchigliani, first lady Carolyn Goodman, Clark County Commissioner Larry Brown, businessman Victor Chaltiel, restaurant owner George Harris and City Councilor Steve Ross - to face off during a "First Friday" event March 4. The remaining 12 candidates - all considered long shots - were not invited.

Retiree A. "Duke" Breuer complained. It did little to sway organizer Chuck Muth.

"as a registered candidate, i should have the opportunity to present my concepts to all forums," Breuer wrote to Muth. (The lack of capitalization is Breuer's.)

"You have the right to free speech," Muth responded. "However, you have no right to use MY soapbox to exercise your right."

Also on Monday, Ross announced that he has scheduled 10 "neighborhood conversations" with residents. Billed as a way to hear people's ideas about the city's future, the get-togethers are also clearly designed to drum up support for Ross' campaign.

"If you're concerned about the future of Las Vegas and believe that what we need at this moment is a fighter for a brighter future for all of us, then this is your time to join the fight and get involved," Ross said. "This is the city that needs you, and I have a campaign that wants you."