The following are the main items discussed at the February 2nd Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting:

*** The BOCC’s presented Karis Drake with an employee service award for 25 years of service. I think it is important for the Board to recognize the good work and longevity of our employees and for the public to know the names of the employees who make this County so special. Thank you, Karis, for your hard work! 

*** The Bureau of Land Management ("BLM") gave a presentation concerning its activity in Douglas County. For a complete review of the BLM presentation please go to pages 150 and 151 of the following link. https://bit.ly/3WYSFBi 

With respect to the Painted Rock Mine, the next step is for the Bureau of Indian Affairs to work with the BLM and Douglas County to identify data gaps and determine what additional information and/or studies will be needed to address the concerns raised by the public. 
 
*** The BOCC voted unanimously to transfer $1,000,000 to the Economic Stabilization Fund (County Rainy Day Fund) and $3,564,535 to the Extraordinary Maintenance Fund from the General Fund. 
 
Both of these funds existed previously but previous Boards had used all of its money. There was extra money in this year’s budget from greater than expected revenue to replenish both of these funds. The Board felt this was crucial considering the current uncertain economic conditions.
 
*** The BOCC voted unanimously to appoint Sharla Hales to the Carson Water Subconservancy District to fill the vacancy of former Commissioner John Engels.
 
*** The BOCC voted 4-1 to accept the pipeline and public right-of-way easements for the segment of Vista Grande Blvd. which connects Jacks Valley Road to the existing, paved portion of Vista Grande Blvd. 
 
Commissioner Nowosad voted against it. He has a valid concern which was raised in public comment. The proposed road goes directly behind three homes and then curves west and exits onto Jacks Valley Rd a little distance west of where Jacks Valley Rd continues north. A map of this can be found on page 248 of the following link https://bit.ly/3WYSFBi. Commissioner Nowosad wants the County to look at an alternative where the road would be straight.
 
I voted in the affirmative because the County can still look at alternatives if it chooses but a no vote would have eliminated the free easement provided by the BLM. I also have concerns with the alternative as it would cost the County a good chunk of money to purchase additional land thru eminent domain and would cause a further delay in completing this road.
 
***The majority of the meeting was spent discussing revisions to its Norms and Procedures. Some really interesting information was provided which is very important for the residents of Douglas County. I will discuss this topic in my next mid-week newsletter.