Storey County Commissioner Covers Fiber Project, Public Safety Updates, and Short-Term Rental Rules
Public safety trends, short-term rental regulations and several capital projects were among the key topics at the Storey County Board of Commissioners’ Feb. 3, 2026 meeting.
In voting items, commissioners directed staff to research potential regulations for short-term rentals, including limiting occupancy to guests age 25 or older (or another appropriate age). Staff will engage the community in developing draft rules covering the use, management, and operation of short-term rentals countywide and will return with recommendations for board review. Public comments included input from a local business owner and a real estate association representative.
Additionally, the board approved Resolution No. 26-817 declaring the county’s intent to lease a portion of saloon space within Piper’s Opera House (also known as “Old Corner Bar”), but for a 3-year initial term, rather than a 12-month term, with option to extend for two additional years, and requiring the payment of a portion of certain utilities. The minimum bid amount will be based on a required updated appraisal of fair-market rent, taking into account the new terms and other considerations per NRS. The resolution seeking bids will be publicly posted with applicable dates, lease terms, and other information on the Storey County website in the bids section, the Comstock Chronicle, and other public locations.
The board also received the State of the Sheriff’s Office report. The report showed increased proactive activity, with about 90 percent of incidents occurring around USA Parkway. The K9 program, launched in May 2025, contributed to 110 drug-related cases. Response times improved from 11 minutes in 2023 to eight minutes in 2025, and the Citizen’s Academy is expected to return in 2026.
The Sheriff’s Office reminded residents that feeding pigeons is prohibited under county code and is considered a misdemeanor. Officials said the birds have become a nuisance along C Street. Residents with questions can contact the Sheriff’s Office.
County officials reported the county’s internal fiber network is now fully installed and operational across county facilities.
In staff reports, the Fire Protection District said it has extended an offer to fill its vacant fire inspector position, with the candidate expected to start Feb. 9. The district also continues to review the contract for Fire Station 71, which will return to the board for consideration.
Several capital projects are moving forward. Bids for the fairgrounds remodel will open in this week, with results expected at the Feb. 17, 2026, meeting. At Piper’s Opera House, a contractor has signed on to refurbish entry doors and windows, and seismic work at the entry column is complete. The county also finalized maintenance contracts for seven domestic water tanks, with work expected to begin this spring.
The county’s grants manager reported coordination with state officials regarding potential funding of up to $10 million, which is expected to be distributed over multiple years.
Commissioners appointed Dona Stafford to the motel operator seat on the Virginia City Tourism Commission and Greg “Bum” Hess as an at-large member of the Storey County Board of Equalization.
The board also approved a contract with Sam Shad Productions for a series of Nevada Newsmakers television commercials, website placements, podcasts, and social media outreach related to legislative and regional matters affecting Storey County.
