Editorial: Board showing sign of political maturity

Friday, Dec. 27, 2002 | 4:07 a.m.

WEEKEND EDITION

December 28-29, 2002

The Clark County Commission appears ready to unanimously support Mary Kincaid-Chauncey, a Democrat, as its chairwoman. It also appears unanimous in its support of Chip Maxfield, a Republican, for vice chairman. Perhaps on another board amicable leadership selections would not be remarkable. But this is the County Commission, with its history of members openly feuding with each other. County Manager Thom Reilly, commenting on the so-far smooth leadership transition, said, "Even the seating assignments in past years were contentious."

We hope this is an indication of how the commission, with new members Rory Reid and Mark James, will conduct itself throughout the coming year. Intelligent debate and differences of opinion are healthy, and good public policy is impossible without them. But it's time for a break, a long break, from the old days of personal agendas and the bad blood they create. Here's hoping for a new era in county politics.

archive