Constable role should be a local decision

Allowing the voters to choose their public officials is a fine American tradition. But then there’s the office of Las Vegas township constable.

Back in 1993, when Constable Don Charleboix resigned after pleading guilty to two criminal charges stemming from his conduct in office, the County Commission attempted to abolish the office – the main duty of which is to serve court papers.

But county officials needed legislative approval to make a permanent change to appointment versus election. When state lawmakers turned them down, they reinstated the office.

For a time, the office was run by former Las Vegas police officer Robert “Bobby G” Gronauer, who by all accounts did a good job.

Then one John Bonaventura, whose main qualification seemed to be that his name resembles that of some popular local jurists, challenged Mr. Gronauer in a primary, and – to the surprise of many - won.

Since then, the office has been a constant source of amusement (on good days), controversy, and exasperation. Mr. Bonaventura has been roundly criticized for a foray into reality television (which featured his deputies brandishing firearms and spouting lots of earthy language), has faced allegations of sexual harassment, has waded into jurisdictional disputes and hired deputies with questionable histories.

In his latest tribute to the sainted Barney Fife, Mr. Bonaventura last month made lawyers Spencer Judd and Robert Pool deputies with badges and law enforcement powers, apparently to pay them for work that wasn’t approved by county officials.

Fed up, Clark Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani said Tuesday that she wants to look at eliminating the office.

Actually, someone is needed to serve court papers. But as few voters seem to be familiar with the duties or necessary qualifications for this office, it might make more sense for the constable to be hired by the city manager or county manager, overseen by the City Council or County Commission.

The state Legislature would be wise to shift this responsibility to the local elected officials who have to deal with the consequences – before something less amusing happens.