Sparks Fly

Mayor Lawson’s post after Councilmember Bybee’s announcement.

Sparks Mayor Ed Lawson never shies away from a good social media sparring match, and his latest post suggests he’s less than thrilled about termed-out Councilmember Charlene Bybee jumping into the mayoral race. His message? If Bybee wants his seat, she’ll have to do more than mimic his policies and post photo ops.

Fair enough. But if Bybee is looking for a way to distinguish herself, we’ve got a suggestion: maybe start by cutting off the pricey pipeline of public funds going to Lawson’s campaign confidants—who also happen to be lobbyists for the City of Sparks.

Yes, you read that right. The city is still shelling out $13,333.34 every month to a duo of lobbyists whose big-ticket item—the lands bill—is all but dead. So if the bill has no momentum, what exactly are these lobbyists being paid for?

With an election on the horizon, Sparks residents deserve answers—and a mayor who isn’t afraid to cut ties with outdated deals and questionable alliances.