Welcome to Middle Ground

In today’s episode, we were honored to host Shelley Berkley, the newly elected Mayor of Las Vegas. As the city’s first mayor without the Goodman name in 25 years, Berkley brings a wealth of experience as a former U.S. Congresswoman and academic leader. Her transition into this critical role marks the beginning of a new chapter for Las Vegas, and we delved into the key issues shaping her vision for the city.

A Candid Conversation with Mayor Shelley Berkley

Her Motivation for Running
Mayor Berkley shared the personal and professional motivations behind her decision to run for mayor. After an illustrious career in Congress and a decade as the head of Nevada’s largest medical school, Berkley explained why now was the perfect time to step into local government and lead Las Vegas through its next phase of growth.

1. Her First Month in Office
   Reflecting on her initial days as mayor, Berkley discussed the challenges and opportunities she has encountered, from assembling her leadership team to setting priorities for her administration.
2. The Badlands Settlement and Financial Challenges
   One of the most pressing issues discussed was the contentious Badlands development dispute. Berkley outlined her approach to addressing the financial challenges posed by the settlement while ensuring the city maintains essential services. She provided insight into her ongoing dialogue with stakeholders and detailed safeguards she plans to implement to prevent similar disputes from burdening taxpayers in the future.
   • Message to Yohan Lowie: When asked directly about the developer at the center of the Badlands dispute, Berkley delivered a measured yet firm message, emphasizing the need for accountability and fair resolution.
3. Homelessness and Social Equity
   Tackling homelessness is a key pillar of Berkley’s agenda. She outlined her plans for addressing this complex issue, balancing compassion with accountability, and discussed initiatives to create long-term solutions for housing and support services.
4. Building on the Goodman Legacy
   With over 25 years of leadership under the Goodman family, Berkley acknowledged their lasting impact on the city while articulating her unique vision. She aims to build upon their legacy with a fresh perspective, focusing on economic growth, community engagement, and innovative approaches to governance.
5. Wildfires and Regional Collaboration
   Berkley also touched on the recent wildfires in California and their impact on the region. As Las Vegas grows, she emphasized the importance of regional partnerships and proactive measures to address shared challenges like environmental disasters.
6. Next Steps for Las Vegas
   The conversation concluded with Mayor Berkley’s outlook on the future of Las Vegas. From economic development to enhancing public safety and infrastructure, she shared her goals for fostering a vibrant, sustainable city that meets the needs of all residents.

This episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the mind of Mayor Shelley Berkley as she navigates the complexities of her new role. Whether you’re a Las Vegas resident or simply interested in the dynamics of leadership, this episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing one of the world’s most iconic cities.

From her first month in office to tackling pressing issues like homelessness and development disputes, Mayor Berkley is shaping a bold new vision for Las Vegas. Tune in to hear her story.