Jones trades her gavel in for TV microphone

Erin Neff

Tuesday, June 29, 1999 | 11:46 a.m.

Jan Laverty Jones didn't waste much time returning to the private sector after eight years as Las Vegas mayor.

Just hours after turning her gavel over to Oscar Goodman, the 50-year-old former automobile pitchwoman was back on television.

Jones was hired by KLAS-TV to serve as an on-air consultant and occasional reporter for Channel 8 Eyewitness News.

"I'm looking forward to being here, even without a gavel," Jones said to anchors Paula Francis and Gary Waddell in her debut appearance during the 6 p.m. newscast.

Jones will likely be appearing on a weekly basis and will help determine her own role. Her initial position is similar to the role political columnist Jon Ralston has with the station, although with a broader range of reporting topics, according to station General Manager Dick Fraim.

"We're thrilled to have Jan," Fraim said. "We recognize that she has just a tremendous feel for the Las Vegas market and its issues."

George Knapp, a reporter on the station's "I-team," said he looked forward to working with Jones after years covering her.

"It's a definite benefit for our viewers," Knapp said. "We think she's going to be a great fit."

Jones also said she plans to enter into a consultant arrangement with friend Bob Forbuss, the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce president.