NLV council briefs for November 16, 2000

Thursday, Nov. 16, 2000 | 11:13 a.m.

Workers' fate prompts delay

The North Las Vegas City Council postponed granting a liquor and gaming license to the recently sold Fiesta hotel Wednesday after hearing that 1,100 employees will lose their jobs after Christmas.

It is the same situation faced by workers at the Santa Fe, recently taken over by Station Casinos. After that buyout, the 900 Santa Fe workers at the property were forced to reapply for their jobs -- a move Station said was necessary because the property was being completely rebranded.

Culinary Union Staff Director D. Taylor, who maintained that he did not represent any employees at the Fiesta, told the council that there is no "rhyme or reason" as to why Station is getting rid of the current staff -- especially around the holidays.

"A job is a paycheck, it's a house, it's shopping, it's survival," he said, with an audience of more than 20 union workers wearing yellow pins attending in support.

Because no Station representatives were present, the council voted to hold a special meeting next week to discuss the license. The special meeting is expected to be held in the days before Station will appear before the Nevada Gaming Commission for approval of its $185 million buyout of the property.

Council members Stephanie Smith and William Robinson said they were disturbed at the prospect of North Las Vegas residents and others losing their jobs, and want Station to defend its actions.

"I have a problem with anyone losing their job, be it close to Christmas or close to the Fourth of July," Robinson said.

Seastrand Park status changes

James Seastrand Park in the Eldorado master-planned community has been taken over by the city.

In 1998 the city entered into a development agreement with Pardee Construction in which the city transferred property to Pardee in exchange for a fully developed park on 23 acres.

According to the contract, Pardee was required to maintain landscaping on the site for 90 days after completion in September. After 90 days the city agreed to accept ownership and maintain the park at an estimated cost $212,000 for six months.

Funds to target youth crime

North Las Vegas Police have received the go-ahead to apply for a $350,000 federal grant to help reduce youth crime.

The one-year renewable grant will fund two bike patrol officers and one secretary. The purchase of computerized fingerprinting equipment is expected to free-up additional time for officers to conduct criminal investigations.

The North Las Vegas Fire Department

has purchased three new sport utility vehicles to help respond to emergency situations. The new vehicles will cost $27,491 each.