Letter: Where are the leaders when we need them?

Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2007 | 7:15 a.m.

It seems kind of ironic that the teachers union, for whatever the reason, is seeking to submit a voters' petition to raise the taxes on the gaming industry - and obviously the gaming industry is opposed. However, this is a very small part of a very large iceberg. Everyone is aware of the problems in education.

What about traffic/transportation issues, fire department responses, lagging health care and inadequate social services? It seems everyone supports better education, better transportation, more affordable health care, better fire and police response and a more responsive social services system.

Where are today's leaders when it comes to identifying not only the multitude of problems we as a community face, but also developing solutions to these issues?

Because of gaming we are a first-class tourist destination. Because we fail to openly discuss and resolve our major issues collectively we are becoming a fourth-class city in which to live. It is time for all our elected, appointed, industry, community and union leaders to chart a path forward for our community. Otherwise, we will continue our downward spiral.

Harry I. Kelman, Las Vegas