Southern Nevada is continuing its record growth. The next person to represent us on the Clark County Commission must be ready to step in already equipped with a knowledge of the issues and the values which reflect our ideals.

As a parent, the owner of a small business and a member of the Nevada Legislature, Tom Collins dealt with a wide-ranging set of issues. In the legislature Tom served on the Education, Judiciary, Transportation and Labor and Management Committees, and was the new chair of the Natural Resources, Agriculture and Mining Committee, having served as vice chair in the past legislative term.

From water usage to utility rates, and from environmental impact studies to traffic impact studies, Tom listened, learned and used that knowledge to help pass laws to protect Nevadans.

As a small business owner, Tom knows the importance of the availability of financial assistance when starting up a business, and knows too the strain that can occur when excessive red tape hampers the loan process. Small businesses form the backbone of our economy, and Tom worked to encourage and support the creation of small businesses in our areas.

Mining and agriculture are leading industries in Nevada and Tom has traveled extensively throughout our state to learn firsthand of the successes, problems and challenges facing those important industries. As one of the leading employers in Nevada, the health of the mining industry is crucial to the overall financial health of the Silver State.

With the rapid rise in population, more vehicles and more construction are having an adverse effect on the air we breathe. The very young and the very old are especially at risk because of the increased smog levels here in the valley.

As Assemblyman, Tom worked with local, state and federal agencies to help ensure that air quality standards are set, met and maintained for the health and safety of all Nevadans. An avid outdoorsman, Tom appreciates the beauty of Nevada and is working to preserve our natural resources for the generations to follow.