Former U.S. Congresswoman Shelley Berkley became mayor of Las Vegas in December, stepping into leadership during a tumultuous time for the city.
With a rich history as a seven-term Democratic congresswoman representing Nevada, Berkley brings a wealth of experience to her role as mayor. In a televised debate last year, she confidently remarked, “Whoever inherits the mayor’s position is almost destined for success.” However, her term has been challenged by a significant tourism slump, which is vital for a city that relies heavily on visitors for economic sustenance.
According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, total visitation dropped 6.7 percent in August compared to the same month the previous year. Contributing factors include the fallout from hardline immigration policies, as flights from Canada and Mexico—two key sources of international tourists—declined by 19 percent and 12 percent respectively. This situation has prompted Berkley to publicly invite Canadians and Mexicans to visit Las Vegas, emphasizing the need to revive the tourism sector.
Las Vegas has experienced rapid growth over the last few decades, transforming from a city known for its gritty allure to one characterized by luxury and entertainment. As Berkley notes, “We know we have a strong future. Our service and tourism industry will continue to attract people. The next decade is going to be among the most successful in the history of Las Vegas.” This optimism echoes the city’s cultural evolution, which now attracts major professional sports franchises like the former Oakland Raiders and soon, the Oakland Athletics.
However, Berkley’s tenure is marked by more than just a tourism downturn. The city is also grappling with the financial aftermath of a settlement stemming from a decades-old lawsuit. This has led to a temporary hiring freeze in the city and has strained its finances. Despite these challenges, Berkley, a lifelong Las Vegan, remains hopeful about the city’s trajectory. “I know the gaming industry very well and I’m a great proponent of it. It’s an extraordinary industry and I think part of my job is to promote tourism and gaming,” she states.
Berkley’s journey in public service began long before her mayoral aspirations. She has been actively involved in Nevada politics, serving in the state assembly and on the Board of Regents for higher education. Her deep connection to the hospitality industry comes from her roots; her father worked as a waiter at the Sands Hotel, which laid the foundation for her understanding of a tourist-based economy.
In a decisive move early in her administration, Berkley oversaw a City Council meeting where the council voted to settle a controversial dispute involving a property known as the Badlands. Originally zoned for residential development, the project faced opposition from nearby residents, resulting in a lengthy legal battle that burdened the city with liabilities. Just weeks into her term, she played a pivotal role in negotiating the buyback of the property, a clear demonstration of her leadership style focused on swift action to resolve issues.
Nevertheless, the financial implications of such settlements have led to a “modified hiring freeze” within city departments. Essential vacancies will be filled, but delays are expected for non-essential positions and public works projects. Berkley expresses hope that the limitations imposed by such court cases will serve as a lesson for future governance, noting, “I hope this never happens again.”
Despite the challenges, Berkley remains a prominent figure in the city and embodies its hopes and dreams. Tick Segerblom, chairman of the Clark County Commission, observes, “She’s the emissary, the cheerleader. She didn’t walk into the perfect situation, but she seems to be handling it well.” Berkley has managed to adapt her messaging around immigration and tourism; while advocating for the city’s immigrant communities, she is also cautious, not wanting to jeopardize essential federal funding that supports local services.
“This is a tourism-based economy, and we want people to come to Las Vegas and have a great time,” she insists. Even with average hotel room rates falling in the wake of the tourism slump, Berkley maintains a pragmatic approach, assuring Las Vegans that they’re prepared to handle fluctuating visitor numbers. “We’re just rolling with the punches,” she says, reflecting the resilient spirit of the city she leads.
As mayor, Berkley’s role is multifaceted; she balances public advocacy with the complexities of governance in a city structured on a council-manager system. Her position requires collaboration with seven other city council members and involves a shared responsibility with Clark County for many local issues. Yet her voice as mayor carries significant weight, especially in promoting the unique allure of Las Vegas.
With tourism deeply engrained in the city’s identity, Shelley Berkley faces a pivotal moment in her leadership journey. As challenges persist, her commitment to revitalizing Las Vegas tourism and advocating for its residents remains steadfast. The journey ahead promises to be a fascinating blend of trials and opportunities for the city’s new mayor.