Big Projects and Community Updates Highlight April Board of County Commissioners Meetings
The Storey County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) addressed a variety of county projects and initiatives during its April 7 and April 21 meetings, including infrastructure improvements, wildfire preparedness, recreation updates, and economic development efforts.
One of the larger infrastructure actions approved was a private infrastructure improvement agreement with Tesla to extend the westbound I-80/Patrick Interchange onramp by approximately half a mile to support traffic flow in the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center area.
Commissioners also received updates on several roadway projects, including the Mark Twain Road rehabilitation and drainage improvement project, which is expected to begin construction by July 1. Public Works crews are continuing pothole repairs countywide, with crack sealing and restriping projects also scheduled in the coming weeks.
The Board approved a low bid of approximately $1.1 million for improvements at the Virginia City Fairgrounds, including new hydrants, restrooms, water infrastructure upgrades, and expanded electrical service. More than half of the project funding will come from grants.
Wildfire preparedness was also a major topic of discussion. Storey County Fire Protection District officials reported that lower snowpack levels and warmer winter conditions could contribute to an elevated wildfire risk season this summer. Commissioners additionally approved a conditional offer to purchase property adjacent to the Highlands Fire Station for potential future relocation of the fire station. Residents are encouraged to sign up for Smart911 Alerts to be up to date in case of any county-wide emergencies: https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=storeycounty.
Several recreation and community-focused items also moved forward. Commissioners approved the first reading of an ordinance that would reduce or eliminate park and swimming pool fees for county residents. The County also announced that a community parks survey is now available online for residents who were unable to attend recent parks assessment town halls: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RYCQP6T. The survey closes May 29, 2026, at 4:00 PM.
Economic development and preservation efforts in Virginia City also received attention. Commissioners approved $50,000 in restricted funding to support a pilot Main Street Program initiative focused on beautification and economic vitality efforts in Virginia City and Gold Hill.
The Board also approved a $97,000 grant application for restoration work at Piper's Opera House, including refurbishment of exterior doors and windows.
Additional actions from the April meetings included:
• Approval of tentative FY 2026–2027 budgets for the County, Water & Sewer Board, and Fire District.
• Approval of revisions to Fire District overtime policy.
• Approval of updates to brothel licensing regulations and direction to draft a new beer and wine liquor license category.
• Approval of a memorandum of understanding with the Storey County Sheriff’s Office Employees’ Association regarding uniforms and insurance benefits.
• Appointment of DiPietro and Thornton, CPA, as the County’s independent auditor.
• Approval of long-term maintenance agreements for seven county water tanks.
County departments also shared updates during staff reports. Highlights included recognition of Community Development staff for professional certifications, onboarding of new Community Health Worker Dustin Cerny, and continued coordination on complex industrial development projects.
Residents are also reminded that the May 19 Board of County Commissioners meeting will begin at 9 a.m., and the June 2 meeting has been canceled.
