Former commissioner eyes Assembly seat

Former Douglas County Commissioner Kelly Kite said Wednesday he intends to file for election to Assembly District 39, the seat currently held by James Settelmeyer.

Kite, 62, served 12 years on the county commission and is a 25-year resident of Douglas County. He is a Republican.

"Nevada is currently uder a dark cloud as far as the economy, its budget deficit, and unemployment," Kite said. "Our housing and home foreclosures are among the highest in the nation. We need to start locally where the best solutions are born and not wait for the federal government to fix it."

Kite said he would work to balance the financial needs of the state.

"I prefer to create the needed funds through management efficiency, consolidation of services, and the reduction of state government expenditures, not through tax increases," Kite said.

He emphasized the importance of holding onto conservative values.

"Now is the time for positive action," Kite said. "We need to work toward spirited but respectful dialogue before, during, and after the session to achieve financial stability. You don't have to agree with opposition to respect them or their positions. A lot can be learned by listening. Nevadans deserve nothing less."

Kite said it's time to stop placing blame.

"I think people are tired of the bickering at all levels and just want something done," he said. "Hopefully we can take a look at all the ideas and agendas and come to reasonable solutions that are good for all Nevadans. Nevada problems need Nevada answers."

As Douglas County commissioner, Kite served in a variety of positions including chairman.

Through encouragement of economic development and business expansion, Kite said he helped bring more than 50 new businesses to Douglas County, including the addition of medical services provided by Carson Valley Medical Center and Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center.

He and his wife Cathie have been married 41 years and are residents of Johnson Lane.