Six Questions for David Steinman

Tiffany Brown

David Steinman moved to Las Vegas to retire but has been busy as a planning commissioner and member of his homeowners association board. Now he’s taking on the role of interim councilman during a very tough time for the city.

By Sam Skolnik (contact)

Monday, Jan. 12, 2009 | 2 a.m.

The newest Las Vegas city councilman, David Steinman, is taking his seat during one of the most tumultuous periods the city has faced. The recession has put the city’s budgeting process in a tailspin, with multimillion-dollar shortfalls and tense negotiations with unions representing city workers.

Steinman, 68, was sworn in this month. A longtime planning commissioner, he was appointed and is serving as a “caretaker” councilman. He’s agreed not to run for the Ward 4 seat vacated by Larry Brown for a full term and will step down once his successor is elected.

What is your background?

I was born in New York City, raised in Ohio, and eventually got into the real estate financing business. I’ve worked for some of the country’s largest banks, including Bank of America, Bank One and Mellon Bank. I also served in various government posts in my old home of Worthington, Ohio.

What brought you to Las Vegas?

I moved here in 1999. I dreamed of being retired, doing nothing and playing golf. It hasn’t worked out that way. I serve on the board of the Sun City/Summerlin Homeowners Association, and I’ve been on the planning commission for the last five years.

What are your first impressions the City Council?

Timing is everything in life, and I sure happened to pick an interesting time. This is probably the most difficult period in the modern history of this city.

How has the council performed in attempting to right the ship?

I do believe the council has taken early and bold steps to tackle the problem. It’s my hope that my background helps with the budgeting process and with the agreements we’re trying out get out of these unions. The economy is far from stable and won’t recover until jobs return.

Is the council taking the correct approach?

If we want to show our employees that we want them to stay, we’re going to have to get various concessions before we start laying people off. I think that’s right approach. There are too many people out there without jobs, and it would be horrible to add one more person to that list.

So how’s your golf game been?

I haven’t played much golf since moving here. I’ve gone from a 12 handicap to a 25.