County Commission District D

Thursday, Aug. 19, 2004 | 11:42 a.m.

Clark County Commissioner Yvonne Atkinson Gates, seeking her fourth term representing the county's urban core including downtown Las Vegas, will face two adversaries in the Democratic primary for District D.

It could be the last hurrah for Joe Neal, a 32-year veteran of the Nevada Senate who is known for his controversial calls for tax increases on casino profits. Also running is Clark County Public Works technician Jesus Carlos Moreno.

Gates, 48, is the Democratic National Committee's Black Caucus chairwoman and spoke at several receptions during the party's July convention in Boston. She has spotlighted her work to bring county resources to her district.

Her platform's three top priorities are to improve transportation, manage growth and water issues, and prevent crime.

Neal, 69, advocates creation of a public power provider to reduce the cost of electricity to valley residents.

Neal also called for a moratorium on new casino construction, suggesting that a moratorium would control the region's difficulties with the pace of growth.

Moreno, 25, says he wants better parks and streets, more recreation centers for young people, and to improve understanding of "special programs out there" to help people own their own homes.

Running unopposed for the seat are Republican Chester Major Richardson and Independent American Scott David Narter.