County Projects Advance: Floodplain, WNC Nursing, and More

The Churchill County Commission heard a report from Public Works Director Chris Spross regarding constructing the secondary water treatment facility in the 100-year flood plain. Commissioners approved the publication of the final public comment period and beginning the implementation of the project under the Floodplain Management Ordinance.

According to Spross, revising the floodplain mapping with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is ongoing. When that process is completed, the treatment facility is anticipated to be pulled out of the floodplain.
Commissioners also approved an award to Miles Construction for $595,260 for the tenant improvements to the Public Defender’s office, which will be relocated to 101 N. Maine Street.

President Kyle Dalpe of Western Nevada College and Fallon Campus Director Lisa Swan came before the commissioners to discuss amending the ongoing lease between the college and the county. WNC has been awarded a $2.3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to renovate the interior spaces of Pinon Hall at the Fallon Campus to expand the Fallon nursing program with updated teaching and testing equipment and improved facilities. Currently, Oasis Academy is in that space, but it will vacate it on July 1, 2024, allowing for expansion.

HRSA requires a recording of a Notice of Federal Interest against the property in the grant amount as a requirement of the grant. Since Churchill County owns the property, the county must grant consent, and WNC will secure the release of the Federal Interest as the value of the grant is depreciated.

Commissioners approved the amendment, with Commissioner Bus Scharmann expressing his appreciation for the nursing program. “This program has been here for a lot of years, and I just want to acknowledge the work Kyle has done to make this work. The enrollment comes because of you, and I just want to let you know how much we appreciate what you’re doing.”  

Commissioner Justin Heath also supported WNC and Dalpe, saying that he was able to complete his first two years in Fallon without having to drive to Carson one time. “I want to see that continue. It is so important for working families.”