The special session to consider the stadium recommendations is expected to be as early as Oct. 7 but as late as Oct. 13.
Gov. Brian Sandoval released the following statement Wednesday regarding the recommendations made by the Southern Nevada Tourism Infrastructure Committee.
“In July 2015, I convened the Southern Nevada Tourism Infrastructure Committee in order to address the challenges unique to Clark County’s tourism industry and provide recommendations on maintaining our rightful position as the top entertainment, convention, and tourism destination in the world. For more than a year, the committee has conducted 16 public meetings to examine ideas and proposals. Last week, I received the Committee’s recommendations, all related to the infrastructure and related public safety needs of Las Vegas.
“After receiving the recommendations on Friday, I have thoroughly reviewed the committee’s documents and I am comfortable with the recommendations related to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority expansion, additional support for law enforcement, and the development of a county-owned stadium that could host a National Football League franchise and be the home of University of Nevada, Las Vegas football. I am convinced that, given the circumstances and timing with regard to public safety, the Convention Center, and the NFL, there is an opportunity to significantly improve the tourism infrastructure of Southern Nevada – already the best the in the world.
“Based on the current environment, I believe a special session of the Legislature is warranted and should be called as soon as can be practicably accomplished. The appointments to fill legislative vacancies by the Washoe and Clark County Commissions will not occur until the last week of September and first week of October, respectively. I feel strongly that any newly appointed or current legislators should be given enough time to review the recommendations and conduct their own due diligence and to allow for ample time to prepare for a special session of the Nevada Legislature. That is why it is my intention to begin a special session no earlier than Friday, October 7 and no later than Thursday, October 13, pending conversations with legislative leadership. The formal proclamation detailing the agenda will not be made until a later date.
“I have twice called special sessions to diversify Nevada’s economy and create new jobs in emerging industries. Just as I have met with the top leaders prior to those announcements, this week I met with the owner of the Raiders, Mark Davis. He was committed and resolute in the team’s interest in relocating to our state. I have also spoken with Clark County Commission Chairman Steve Sisolak, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Joe Lombardo, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO Rossi Ralenkotter, and gaming and labor leaders.
“We have before us the opportunity to invest in Nevada’s most foundational industry, tourism, by providing for the infrastructure and public safety needs of the 21st century. We can and must usher in a new era for tourism in the Las Vegas market, while keeping our citizens and visitors safe, and ensuring our position as the global leader in entertainment and hospitality.”
