28 Apr Francis Allen-Palenske
Francis Allen-Palenske
for
Las Vegas Ward 4
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2022 Questionnaire
Please share briefly what inspired you to run for this office and why you feel you’re qualified for the position.
I am a former two-term Nevada Assemblywoman when I was awarded “Assemblywoman of the Year” by the Peace Officers Research Association of Nevada. I am a dedicated community supporter who is hardworking and focused with an optimistic outlook. I volunteer as a Little League Coach and Las Vegas Motor Speedway’s children’s charity, while raising our two school-aged kids with my husband Steve, a firefighter. I own a Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop and have experienced the ups and downs of our local economy.
How would you improve the City’s resources and assistance for people experiencing homelessness?
I would reach out to the non-profit community and organize them, along with some key LVMPD and local business people and create a plan to address the issue. Creating a communications channel between entities that will continue to handle evolving needs. The homelessness problem is our collective problem to solve as private citizens, elected officials, and public servants. We also need to acknowledge that the Nevada State legislature needs to address the lack of mental health facilities in Clark County that are equipped to address the overwhelming need.
The homelessness problem is our collective problem to solve as private citizens, elected officials, and public servants
If elected to this position, how would you help better allocate the city budget to help improve the city school system?
The City of Las Vegas does not have a formal role in education policy. But, I believe it's EVERYONE’S job to prioritize our schools. With two children in my household school-aged who attend public schools, I will use my platform to lean into areas where I can contribute a positive impact on behalf of our children. We must do better for our kids.
Do you support the implementation of a Human Rights Commission to address, study, and mediate possible and actual discrimination in your jurisdiction?
As a Korean-American, I’m well aware discrimination unravels our social fabric. I will have an open door policy for any community member or group that wants to address any issue that they are facing as individuals or as a group.
What role do you see the city council playing in addressing rising housing costs and rising rent?
The most important role Las Vegas City Council can play in addressing rising housing cost is work in concert with our federal delegation to push the federal government’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to release more land. Approximately 81% of Nevada is managed by the BLM and it’s hampering our ability to combat the housing crises we are facing. Bringing
stakeholders together is necessary to mitigate the most difficult part of our housing shortage, the lack of available land.
Describe your views on supporting electric city vehicles and working towards reducing the city’s carbon footprint whenever possible?
I support electric city vehicles when it makes sense. Please note: Los Angeles City after a large financial investment in electric fire engines removed them from service after a lackluster performance. I add my voice to others in an effort to reduce the City of Las Vega’s carbon footprint.
What policies do you see as valuable to address inequality and to increase social mobility for residents?
For decades Las Vegas’ great legacy has been making homeownership attainable for so many people. Increase availability of housing (stock) to combat the housing shortage. Increase access to capital to facilitate homeownership.
And of course, the single greatest tool for social mobility anywhere is access to quality education.
Describe your relationship with unions or other labor organizations and how you, if elected, would work to ensure working people have a seat at the table in economic or workforce development projects?
My husband is a 24-year veteran of Las Vegas Fire and Rescue and a member of the firefighters local 1285. I will ensure all stakeholders have representation and do my best to understand their interests and concerns.
What do you see as the most important initiative that you would like to see implemented in the community if you were elected to this position?
Increased police officers on the streets to provide the blanket of safety which we all enjoy. This is particularly needed as there has been an increase in violent crime and property crime in northwest Las Vegas. Public safety is also essential for businesses to flourish and communities to thrive.
If elected, how do you plan to address climate inequity in the city of Las Vegas amid rising temperatures?
I’ll turn to experts in the field to come up with best practices. Surely this will include “Cooling Stations” when the National Weather Service in Las Vegas issues an excessive heat warning, generally when temps reach 10 to 15 degrees above normal.