To find the least value of x for which y is less than 9, we can solve the inequality:

y < 9

Given that y = -2x - 8, we can substitute this expression into the inequality:

-2x - 8 < 9

Now, let's solve for x:

-2x - 8 < 9

First, add 8 to both sides of the inequality:

-2x - 8 + 8 < 9 + 8

-2x < 17

Next, divide both sides by -2. Remember that when dividing by a negative number, the inequality sign flips:

x > -17/2

Now, we want to find the least integer value of x that satisfies this inequality. Since x is an integer, we round up to the nearest integer:

x > -17/2 rounded up to the nearest integer is -8

So, the least integer value of x for which y is less than 9 is -8. Therefore, the answer is -8.