Editorial: Constable candidates receive endorsements

Friday, Oct. 25, 2002 | 9:08 a.m.

The constable's offices in Southern Nevada don't have a high profile, but they are important nonetheless. The constables and their deputies serve court papers and enforce evictions and court notices. The Sun offers its endorsements in the constable races that are contested this year:

In the Las Vegas township, Robert "Bobby G" Gronauer, a Democrat, would like another term. Gronauer is energetic, gregarious and, most importantly, has transformed the constable's office in just four years, modernizing it and making it more professional. All the deputy constables employed by Gronauer must be certified under the state's Peace Officers Standards and Training program. Until Gronauer took over, there was no requirement that deputies have this basic law enforcement training. In addition, under the previous administration, no one in the office spoke Spanish. But now five of the eight members of his clerical staff can speak Spanish, a big help in our diverse city. Gronauer has been outstanding in his first term. The Sun endorses Robert "Bobby G" Gronauer.

North Las Vegas Constable Herb Brown, a Democrat who is seeking re-election, has done a solid job. He has stressed accountability and professionalism -- and has delivered on both. For instance, Brown and all his deputies are P.O.S.T.-certified. Brown's integrity and commitment to improving the office have earned him another term. The Sun endorses Herb Brown.

Henderson Constable Earl Mitchell, a Republican, is facing a formidable opponent in John Cahill, a Democrat. Cahill, a retired juvenile parole and probation officer, wants to see Spanish-speaking people on the constable's staff. He's calling for an upgrade of the computer system, more online services and more audits. He also says the Henderson constable should be full time -- Mitchell is a full-time Henderson police officer and part-time constable. Making the office full time should be explored, but the incumbent is doing a respectable job and we believe he should be retained. The Sun endorses Earl Mitchell.

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