Sandoval signs order extending special tourism panel to work on stadium project

One of the possible sites for a proposed 65,000-seat domed stadium in Las Vegas. (Las Vegas Review-Journal)

Gov. Brian Sandoval has signed an amended executive order enabling the Southern Nevada Tourism Infrastructure Committee to operate through Sept. 30.

The committee was set to expire July 31, but Chairman Steve Hill requested an extension so the developers behind a proposed 65,000-seat domed stadium could gather additional details on at least nine potential stadium sites and how to finance the project.

The revised order also enables the committee to discuss law enforcement needs and make public safety recommendations related to the development of a stadium.

“I created this body one year ago to bring community leaders together with many of the brightest minds in the gaming and hospitality industry to explore and prioritize projects and funding mechanisms to enhance Southern Nevada’s ability to compete in an increasingly competitive market,” Sandoval said in a statement on the order of the extension.

“The committee has done an outstanding job in managing and pursuing a robust and complex agenda but its work is not complete,” Sandoval said. “The additional time will allow the committee to thoroughly evaluate sites for a potential stadium and work with private partners to finalize any recommendations for legislative action and provides the opportunity for recommendations concerning the law enforcement needs of Southern Nevada.”

Enabling legislation that would have allowed additional funding of law enforcement expired July 1, a concern raised by Clark County Commission Chairman Steve Sisolak, a committee member, at previous meetings.

The revised order said increased law enforcement funding “is a fundamental component of analyzing any infrastructure investment in Southern Nevada, especially where improvement projects contemplate attracting new visitors and growing business opportunities.”

The stadium, which could cost more than $2 billion, is currently envisioned as a public-private partnership. Private funding would come from casino operator Las Vegas Sands Corp., Majestic Realty and the NFL’s Oakland Raiders, who have promised to seek relocation to Las Vegas if the dome’s public financing component is approved by the Nevada Legislature. The stadium also would host special sports and entertainment events, from soccer matches to large concerts, and serve as a new home to the UNLV football team.

The committee is scheduled to meet again July 28.

The Review-Journal is owned by the family of Las Vegas Sands Corp. Chairman and CEO Sheldon Adelson.

Contact Richard N. Velotta at rvelotta@reviewjournal.com or 702-477-3893. Find @RickVelotta on Twitter.