Montandon wins over political veteran Goynes

Wednesday, June 4, 1997 | 10:34 a.m.

Voters in North Las Vegas opted for change over status quo by electing Mike Montandon as their next mayor.

The 33-year-old commercial real estate appraiser for Bank of America beat City Councilman Theron Goynes 55 percent to 45 percent Tuesday after vowing to improve the city's zoning decisions and fiscal management.

Though a political neophyte, Montandon brings to City Hall the experience of a successful community activist. As president of the Hidden Canyon Homeowners Association, he helped beat an attempt to build a women's prison near neighborhoods. Instead, the prison will be located in a more isolated part of the valley.

Montandon said he expected the vote totals to be closer, particularly since both candidates finished in a virtual dead heat during the May 6 primary. Mayor James Seastrand, who chose not to seek re-election, backed Montandon.

Voters had a clear choice. Montandon represented the new kid on the block. Goynes, a councilman for 17 years, touted his political experience and supported a continuance of current city policies.

"That made a real difference," Montandon said. "Goynes said it more than once that I was the newcomer, and people aren't satisfied with what they've got. A year from now people will be seeing a lot of change."

Montandon campaigned against what he considered haphazard zoning decisions and powerful developers who flexed their muscles at City Hall. He also raised concerns about the city using an unstable water fund to prop up the general fund.

The mayor-elect was one of many local candidates who believe the city must build more parks. He also wants to add police substations, and hire private companies to remove graffiti.

"We need to let people know North Las Vegas is a quality place to live," Montandon said. "We've got to work on our priorities, but it'll be a little while before I can get more specific."

The 67-year-old Goynes said it's unlikely he'll run for public office again. But the retired elementary school principal said he'll remain active in community projects.

Had he won, Goynes would have become Nevada's first black mayor.

"We did everything we were supposed to do, but there was quite a bit of voter apathy from my standpoint," Goynes said. "I'm not upset but I am disappointed. This is it. Seventeen years, that's enough. I'm satisfied with the work I've done."

Montandon takes over July 1 and will serve for four years. The part-time position pays $26,000 annually.