Residents of Marble Manor and advocates for the Historic West Side voiced urgent concerns during a recent city council meeting, highlighting issues of displacement and neglect linked to redevelopment efforts. Madeline Rose, a single mother and Marble Manor resident, detailed her family's struggles, citing violations of federal housing policies and the detrimental impact of redevelopment on vulnerable residents, including those with emotional support animals. She called for an immediate halt to the city's involvement in the redevelopment project, emphasizing the need for oversight and adherence to federal regulations.
Catherine Duncan, another community member, echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the lack of progress in the Historic West Side despite significant funding from the Redevelopment Agency. She pointed out that while other areas of Las Vegas have benefited from redevelopment initiatives, the Historic West Side has been overlooked, leading to ongoing challenges in revitalizing the community. Duncan urged collaboration between the Economic and Urban Development Department and local residents to create a sustainable tourism destination that honors the area's rich history.
Darlene Day, also involved in community initiatives, introduced the Kingdom Project, aimed at empowering local residents and fostering tourism in the Historic West Side. She reiterated the need for immediate action to address housing violations and support displaced residents.
The discussions underscored a collective call for accountability and collaboration among city officials, residents, and stakeholders to ensure that redevelopment efforts do not come at the expense of the community's well-being. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further dialogue and action to address these pressing issues.