Churchill County Planning Commissioners Eric Blakey and Jeff Goings convened on August 22 for a Planning Commission Joint Entities Workshop, aiming to glean updates from the Fallon Paiute Shoshone Tribe, Churchill County Library, the School District, City of Fernley, and County Public Works.
Laura Ines, the new Economic Director with Fallon Tribal Economic Development, apprised the commission of the Tribe's ongoing planning of a 35-acre development between Fox Peak gas station mini-market and Fox Peak Cinema. Ines, formerly with Churchill Economic Development Authority (CEDA), also mentioned a forthcoming 1.32-acre development adjacent to Fernley's Fox Peak gas station. The primary intent behind these projects is retail space. Ines stated, “We are starting to figure out which architectural plan we will be going with,” said Ines, who indicated they would also move toward paving the roads for the development shortly. Plans include provisions for food outlets and outdoor seating. Ines expressed eagerness to kickstart these ventures. “We want to get the word out that we want to work with you,” she said. Ines also mentioned plans to develop over seven acres in Mound House, intending to introduce another Fox Peak store.
From the Planning Department, Dean Patterson inquired about previously envisioned residential units behind Fox Peak Cinema. “We have laid out architecture,” she explained, with units laid out in the back.” There have also been discussions about a tribal clinic in the area, but no firm plans have been determined. “We want to grow something for the people and the public, and we would love to see a place for families to enjoy like Reno’s Food Truck Friday.”
C.L. Quillen, Director of Churchill County Library, presented progress updates since succeeding former director Carol Lloyd. Quillen emphasized the pressing need for additional space due to the expanding popularity of their programs. She shared that a recent event witnessed an attendance of 80 individuals, necessitating spatial adjustments. “We just recently started an elementary book club, started a library newsletter, and rolled out a new database for crafting,” which she thinks will be very popular. Quillen also highlighted a recent grant of $6,000 from the American Library Association, in conjunction with AT&T, designated to expand literacy initiatives. Her plans include adding some adult programs, stating, “That is something we have been deficient in.” Additionally, she hopes to establish a "Library of Things," a concept gaining traction in various locales, where patrons can borrow items beyond traditional books.
Michele Rambo, the newly hired planning director for the City of Fernley, provided an overview of the municipality's bustling activity. According to Rambo, Fernley plans significant industrial and residential development on both sides of I-80, aiming to equip the city for forthcoming growth. Rambo also voiced concerns about the Truckee Canal lining project and issues with residents' wells. She mentioned ongoing coordination with Senator Mark Amodei to devise strategies and collaboration with the Bureau of Reclamation to yield improved outcomes.
New Churchill County School District Superintendent Derild Parsons updated the board on school district activity, beginning with technology to improve their transportation system, which can help parents access information regarding the whereabouts of their bussed children. “We are still working out the bugs,” said Parsons, “and there have been plenty of them.” He also reported that the district does not currently have enough bus drivers, and they have several buses that are over 95%. “We’re getting them there, and we’re making adjustments every day.” Another area that Parson’s would like to improve is student pick-ups and drop-offs. While no new plans have been discussed, he strongly feels it needs to be addressed. “It can become a safety concern if we don’t make things better,” said Parsons.
Chris Spross, Director of Churchill County Public Works, offered an update on public works and capital improvements, detailing the county's progress in several areas.
- New Courthouse: 50% complete design drawings and currently under review.
- Old CC Communications Building: 50% complete design drawings for improvements, set to house the District Attorney's Office, are also 50% complete.
- New CAPS Building: 50% of the design drawings are due by the end of August. Drum Building: Conversion to the new CART complex is underway despite funding hurdles being actively addressed.
- Central Nevada Health District: The acquisition of two buildings on South Maine Street involves plans for minor and considerable improvements. Spross also noted that this is likely where Churchill County Social Services will be housed once renovations are complete.
- RV Dump Station: Subterranean work is nearly finished, with the arrival of a holding tank expected shortly.
- Green Sand Media Replacement: Completed at the Sand Creek water treatment plant, resulting in arsenic levels below five.
- Wastewater Reclamation Project on Moody Lane: Progressing to enhance its capacity, with new membrane installation scheduled for September 11-12.
- Secondary Water Treatment Plant at the Golf Course: A preliminary engineering report is due for completion in October, with funding anticipated from the State Revolving Fund and other entities.
The Churchill County Planning Commissioners meets semiannually to receive updates and consider action on proposed projects within the county. The next meeting will include more progress reports on the many county projects currently underway.
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