Editorial: Sun offers its choices in Tuesday’s primary

Friday, March 30, 2001 | 10:15 a.m.

It is unfortunate that turnout is expected to be light in Tuesday's municipal primary elections, especially since there is a guarantee that at least three races in Henderson and Las Vegas will be decided on that day. That's because in a city council race in Henderson and two municipal court contests -- one in Las Vegas and the other in Henderson -- there are only two candidates for each office. Along with endorsements in these contests, the Sun also offers its recommendation on a Boulder City ballot question that would block a pay raise for members of that city council:

After battling a lengthy illness, Las Vegas Municipal Court Judge Seymore Brown retired in June 2000. A short time after his death, the Las Vegas City Council appointed Betsy Kolkoski to fill that vacancy. Kolkoski, who is seeking election, has strived to reduce the traditionally long waiting times for people to pay their moving violation fines. Kolkoski has touted the change that she has initiated, which allows people to pay their fines at a front counter instead of having to wait to appear before a judge. The Sun endorses Betsy Kolkoski for her judicial soundness and willingness to improve the court's efficiency.

In Henderson, Municipal Court Judge Ken Proctor is seeking his third term. Unlike some jurists, who sometimes get mired in doing things the traditional way, Proctor is open to new ideas and approaches. Proctor has started programs for offenders of drunken driving and domestic abuse that focus more on rehabilitation than punishment. The Sun endorses Judge Ken Proctor. In the Henderson City Council race, Jack Clark is seeking re-election. He has been a steady presence on the council, successfully obtaining more land from developers to build schools and supporting an outstanding city park system, which has been nationally recognized. We urge voters to re-elect Jack Clark.

Meanwhile, in Boulder City, residents can vote on a referendum that would prevent a pay hike from going into effect for members of the City Council. The initiative was led by Councilman Bill Smith, who correctly believes it is wrong for some members of the council to get a pay increase before they face the voters again. We urge residents to vote yes on Question 1, which would stop this misguided pay boost. Otherwise, a terrible precedent would be set.