We’ve all heard the old adage: “Alone we can do so little; together we can accomplish so much.” I find that statement so true for Southern Nevada. While the people of Boulder City have accomplished many amazing things over the past 92 years, there has always been a spirit of teamwork, collaboration and strong alliances that drives us forward.
Think back to those early days in 1931 when thousands of people came to our community for the Boulder Dam project. Where should all these families live? Where would you eat? While many focused on building the dam, homes, businesses, schoolhouses, and churches had to be built. Our community became the first to be developed in the new town planning in the 20th century. The case was built in 1931 and 1932 by the Bureau of Reclamation and Six Companies. Sims Ely, then city manager, began issuing permits for commercial buildings in 1931. Teamwork built this city of dirt and dust into a bustling community.
Over the years, the city has remained fairly unchanged. Yes, technology is different, but we still appreciate what made Boulder City great. While we’ve seen communities “over the hill” grow significantly, Boulder City has steadfastly maintained the same size.
This can sometimes lead to challenges. For example, the Boulder City Fire Department has more than two dozen men and women on its roster, seven of whom are on duty at a time. There are often times when there simply aren’t enough paramedics or firefighters to respond to multiple ongoing incidents.
We have been fortunate to develop solid relationships with the Henderson Fire Department and Community Ambulance. When our crews are busy making 911 calls, they step in to help. Working together saved property and lives.
Along with our City Council members, I serve on several regional boards and committees. I am a member of the Southern Nevada Health District Board, the Civilian Military Council, the Regional Transportation Commission/Regional Flood Control District Boards and the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance. Council members include the Southern Nevada Regional Planning Coalition, the Nevada League of Cities Board of Directors, the Southern Nevada Water Authority, the Las Vegas Visitors and Convention Authority, and the Workforce Connections Consortium. Although Boulder City represents a very small percentage of Clark County residents, membership gives us an equal voice at the tables of these large, important organizations.
These strong alliances benefit the residents of Boulder City. Case in point: In 2021, the Clark County School District announced a plan to consolidate our facilities. Councilor Sherri Jorgensen was appointed to the Clark County School Oversight Panel for School Facilities. Their concerns (along with those of parents throughout the community) led the district to reevaluate the consolidation—and eventually abandoned it.
In the end we know what we know. As a doctor, I can diagnose many diseases. But when a difficult case arises, I know my limits and refer the patient to a specialist. As the council selected who would serve on the various local and state committees, we chose areas of experience for each of our council members. You could hit the ground running.
Personally, I appreciate the invitation to sit around the table with my peers from other communities, hear their ideas and discuss best practices. When we work together, we can formulate solutions that make all of our communities better.
Joe Hardy is the mayor of Boulder City. Previously, he served in the State Assembly and Senate.