As public officials begin to make their positions known regarding the 8,400-home subdivision that Laing Homes is trying to ram down the collective throat of the people of Las Vegas, we thought - this being an election year, and all - it might be interesting to see where as many as possible (and their opponents, if any) stand on the issue.

Obviously, we would be more inclined to support those who oppose the subdivision. And, based upon what we've seen of public sentiment, those who are in favor of the subdivision should probably start updating their resumés as soon as possible.

Until now, many officials (they know who they are!) have told us they didn't know enough about the issue to form an opinion; well, after the meeting of the Red Rock Citizens Advisory Council on August 28, 2002, that is no longer an acceptable answer - at least to us. If they wish to represent the people, it is their responsibility to learn what issues concern those people, then it is their responsibility to educate themeslves as to what issues are of concern to those people. Then - to take a stand on that issue - EDITOR.

(1) Reported by Pat vanBetten on 8/28/2002, verified that evening by the editor.

(2) Reported in the Las Vegas Review-Journal 8/29/2002.

(3) When asked by the editor about his position on the subdivision, he would only state that - based on wht he knew - he was "concerned." When pressed on the BLM issue alone (the conflict-of-interest charge), he indicated he thought it was wrong. Unfortunately, the lack of specificity in his answer to the first question moves him into the "No Opinion" category until and unless he comes to a conclusion and is willing to state it.

(4) Discussion Board posting on August 15, 2002.