On May 7, the Churchill County Board of Commissioners approved a series of major actions affecting employee insurance costs, county staffing structures, and long‑term land conservation, while also adopting the countywide compensation study that will guide pay adjustments next fiscal year.
Commissioners first approved the 2026 employee insurance package after the county faced a proposed 31% increase in medical premiums due to rising claims. The Insurance Advisory Committee recommended keeping Cigna for medical coverage and shifting dental and vision plans to Kansas City Life. The final package includes about a 5.7% increase for medical coverage, along with lower dental and vision costs. Commissioners thanked staff for negotiating reductions and improving provider access.
The board also approved Resolution 7‑2026, establishing a new capital projects fund to track grant revenue and expenses tied to future projects funded through the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act (SNPLMA). Comptroller Sherry Wideman said the fund ensures accurate accounting and alignment with state reporting requirements. During public comment, resident John Morton requested more detailed public information showing how funds and taxes connected to new programs are being used.
Clerk/Treasurer Linda Rothery presented updates to the county’s investment policy, which had not been revised since 2022. She said the changes reflect updates to Nevada Revised Statutes governing public investments, clarify definitions, and incorporate recommendations from the county’s investment advisors. The board approved the revisions unanimously.
Deputy District Attorney Chelsea Sanford delivered the second reading of proposed updates to county fire board and fire department ordinances. The revisions include gender‑neutral language, clarified budget responsibilities, and updated fire marshal qualifications and duties. The board unanimously adopted the changes as Bill 2026B / Ordinance 8.
Human Resources Director Joe Sanford presented a proposal to retitle an existing chief deputy criminal position to assistant district attorney. He said the change updates the title of an existing role rather than creating a new position. Commissioners discussed potential impacts on salary alignment under the county’s compensation study before approving the change, effective July 7, 2026.
The board also approved restructuring within the Clerk/Treasurer’s Office. Three deputy clerk positions will be renamed and reclassified to better reflect current duties, including the creation of Treasurer Accounting Specialist positions and reassigning one employee as Deputy Clerk to the Board. The changes take effect July 7, 2026.
Commissioners approved a sending site application from the Robert and Tina Doty Family Trust for 168 acres of agricultural land on Pasture Road and Norcutt Lane. The property qualified for 229 transferable development rights (TDRs), and both the Sending Site Review Committee and Planning Commission had recommended approval.
Under letters received, commissioners acknowledged a notice from the Nevada Division of Water Resources confirming updated ownership records for water rights Permit 60756 following a Report of Conveyance processed in February.
Two additional conservation easement agreements were approved. The Peel property, totaling 193.9 acres with 155.32 acres of water rights, had previously faced title complications following the death of Arthur Peel. Staff clarified that approval authorizes the agreement but does not finalize recording. The second agreement, involving C&A Rentals LLC, covers 72.53 acres with 58.27 acres of water rights and had already completed the sending site and appraisal process. Both agreements and their associated TDRs were approved unanimously.
Commissioners also adopted the countywide compensation study completed by Baker Tilly, including updated pay grades and an implementation plan for the next fiscal year. Discussion focused on recruitment, retention, and pay adjustments across county departments.
The next meeting will be held May 20 at 8:15 a.m.
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