We've Got Questions- Do you have the Answer?
Introducing a new feature: The Questions Section. Sometimes folks write in with a question asking me if I know the answer but I'm really not any better at getting to the bottom of things or have any special insight or knowledge so usually can't help. I know there are residents out there that do know the answers and we'd like to hear from you.

• Who do you contact about helping maintain the Washoe City Cemetery?

• What can you do about a neighbors floodlight shining on your property?

• What happened to the signs at the Jumbo Grade Trailhead?

• What is that grave at the Deadman's Creek Trailhead?
   

Scenic Byway Meeting Thursday!

Attend the meeting Thursday the 26th of June to provided input and show support for designating the loop highway around Washoe Valley as an official Nevada "Scenic Byway". If granted, this will promote Washoe Valley as a place of natural beauty, historic significance and recreational opportunities- things that should be preserved for future generations.

Scenic Byway
for Washoe Valley

Scenic Byway Meeting for Public Input
Thursday, June 26, 2008
7:00 p.m.
Nevada Division of Forestry - 885 Eastlake Blvd.
Help make a Washoe Valley Scenic Byway a reality!
Please come and share your opinion and your knowledge of the scenic, cultural, and historic resources of Washoe Valley.
 

Check out the WV Scenic Byway pages on washoevalley.org and our previous article here for more information. The official Nevada Scenic Byways page is here.
June 23, 2008
Comment on this article

SVAP: Latest Version Available

Yes, they're still working on the South Valleys Area Plan. You can see the latest draft here. There is also a link from the "SVAP Diary" page (see "Hot Topics" in the left margin). If you're involved in the process and have some news to pass on, let us know.
June 24, 2008
Comment on this article

Washoe Valley Residents In Reno Rodeo

Local equestrian competitors and volunteers were featured in the area's media for their participation in this year's Reno Rodeo. Among our local horsepeople were: Barrel Racer Lita Scott, Richard Miller, Steve Smith jr. Scott and Smith are also mentioned here in the Lahontan Valley News. Scott again shows up in this Carson Times article. Rodeo Fans Sarah and Silke Rowbam are quoted in this KTVN-TV article. Scott is again mentioned in this additional Carson Times article. Garrett Smith is mentioned here.
June 23, 2008
Comment on this article

Apples In Washoe Valley

If you're an avid reader of washoevalley.org you know that Mark Twain bragged that we had the best potatoes in the world in his day and that we used to have quite a lavender crop, but apples?

The following "juicy news" is from a neat local blog we found called Local Food in Northern Nevada:

"Apples grown in Northern Nevada are in our future! Delane Pennington of Agape Organics-The Apple Basket report that their apple tree blossoms survived the very erratic 2008 spring weather and they’ll have apples and pumpkins for us this year.

"They grow Golden Delicious, Cameo, Gala, and Braeburn apples in a you-pick orchard located in Washoe Valley. When it is time to harvest they send out postcards to let their customers know the orchard is open for business. If you and your family and friends want to experience Northern Nevada apples email Agape Organics at delane@agapeorganics.com or call Delane at 775-885-1988 to get on the mailing list."
 

The blog also has a convenient list of all the farmers markets in the area as well as other local food news.

June 23, 2008
Comment on this article
 

Bear Resistant Food Lockers at Davis Creek Park

Washoe County Parks is investing in Bear Resistant food lockers for campers at Davis Creek Park for the safety of both bears and people in this RGJ article.
June 23, 2008
Comment on this article

Website News

Starting today, we will include events and want ads in the normal article stream on the front page. This will maximize exposure and make the site easier to maintain and use. Of course, those residents who submit information to this site may not support or endorse other information or opinions on this site.

Also, we have an ongoing project to migrate the production and editing of washoevalley.org to the web so we can edit it anywhere on any computer. hence a new email address for all correspondence. Send all submissions to: washoevalley@gmail.com
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article

For Sale

For Sale: 1986 Chevy Silverado 3500 454 engine. Current registration. Great ranch truck. $3500.00 call 775.247.6654

Animal Services Weighs In On Dog Killing

Washoe County Animal Services advises that deadly force should be the "absolute last resort" when dealing with family pets in this article on KOLO-TV's site. The article is a follow-up to the article below about the dog killing at Kruse's Custom Meats on Eastlake Blvd. It reports that the investigation is ongoing.
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article

Wild West Lives in WV!

Gunslinger Shoots Dog at Kruse's

We try to concentrate on good news here at washoevalley.org but this article serves as a public service warning to those who have dogs and cats.

On Saturday, May 31st, an employee of Kruse's Custom Meats shot and killed Bucket, a black lab that had left its yard. Tom Kruse, owner of the business on Eastlake Blvd claims the dog had killed his livestock in the past although it is not clear if the dog was doing that at the time he was killed or was even on Kruse's property.

At any rate, some in Washoe Valley think they are justified in shooting a dog "at large" without first calling the owners or animal control to prevent it. To them apparently, a family pet is no different than a coyote and no more valuable than a chicken so be prepared to suffer the consequences, right or wrong, if your dog (or cat) wanders.

The Washoe County sheriff's office is investigating whether the butcher shop employee, Tom Benton, could face possible charges, including animal cruelty or discharging a firearm in a populated area. "There could be any number of charges stemming from this, or there could be zero, we just have to wait until the investigation is complete," Keast said.-RGJ.com

If anyone knows if charges will be filed in this incident, please let us know.

Here is a good article about the incident in the Nevada Appeal with reader comments. Another report of the incident is covered on the KOLO-TV website (June 1) and again here (June 3). The story even appeared in a San Diego paper, presumably further suppressing property values.

A neighbor sends in this opinion on the subject. If you have any more information on the incident, please send it in.
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article

Human Bones Found At Washoe Lake

A man walking his dog discovered parts of a human skull on the southeast shore of Washoe Lake on Friday, June 6th. Authorities are investigating to see if they are ancient or not in this article on the KTVN-TV site.
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article

Commissioner and Assemblywoman Round-up

• Commissioner Humke attended the dedication of a recreation center for at-risk kids (RGJ).

• Assemblywoman Bonnie Parnell comments on school budget cuts (RGJ)

• Ms Parnell gets union endorsement (LV Review/Journal)

June 9, 2008

WV Business Profile: Skidsteer Jobs 4 U

Skidsteer Jobs 4U, LLC                Phone/Fax: 775 267-9435

Email: skidsteerjobs4U@charter.net           Manager/Operator: Jim Doherty

* Our Caterpillar 247B Tracked Skid Steer hourly rate is $65 per hour on the job including an operator

* We also have a dump trailer to haul debris away from jobs for our customers (special quote)

* We assess your job by giving you a free an on site estimate

* We arrange for the rental of attachments for the skid steer

* Our geographic area is Minden, Gardnerville and Carson City, Washoe Valley, Nevada (special bids can be provided including travel for areas outside our normal territory)

* Call, email or fax us a request for an on site estimate
June 9, 2008

Rattlesnake Photos A Hoax

This article from RGJ explains that the photos of the nest of rattlesnakes "in Washoe Valley" you may have received in an email are a hoax. These photos were taken in Colorado and distributed around the country and customized with local locations.

Rattlesnakes are fairly common in our backcountry but this particularly frightening series of photos was not taken here and it is not clear what the circumstances were that caused such a large concentration.

See our rattlesnake article on the Outdoors Page for more reliable information on these guys in Washoe Valley.
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article
 

Deadman's Creek Hike

Sam Bauman describes the Deadman's Creek trail as his last hike before a knee replacement in this Nevada Appeal article.
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article

West WV Trails Closed

 This article appeared in the Sierra Sun (Truckee) on May 29:

CARSON CITY - Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park personnel announced today a temporary closure of portions of the Marlette and Hobart Backcountry area. The closure will be Monday through Friday and will last through September.

Backcountry trails that will be closed are: the Lakeview Road, the section of Hobart Road between Marlette Lake and Hobart Lake, the Red House Flume Trail and the Tunnel Creek road in the Red House and Franktown Creek area. Access points that will be affected are the gate above Lakeview Estates in Carson City and the gate at the top of Musgrove Canyon, in Washoe Valley. The closure will also affect backcountry travel permit holders.

"The closure is being implemented to keep visitors safe during the Marlette Water System improvement project," said Park Supervisor Jay Howard. This system supplies water to Virginia City, Silver City and Carson City.

A significant amount of travel on narrow dirt roads by heavy equipment is associated with this project. This improvement project will upgrade the existing diesel pump system to a natural gas generator, electric pump and add new water delivery piping.

The Ash Canyon Road, Hobart Lake, North Canyon Road, Marlette Lake Flume Trail and Tahoe Rim Trail will continue to be open daily.

"We apologize for any inconvenience," Howard said.

Contact the park at 775-831-0494 for more information.
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article

Mosquito Spraying Safe Declares County

If you see a helicopter spraying the Washoe Valley wetlands, county health officials are reassuring residents the chemicals are safe for humans and animals in this article on KRNV-TV.
June 9, 2008
Comment on this article

More Skinner Fire Photos

Here's some more photos sent in by readers. Thanks Dave & Tom!

And one more from us

FIRE!

We decided to take a hike on the Ophir Trail on the west side at Davis Creek Park to get out of the wind (the trees blunt the gusts) and I looked around and saw the Skinner Fire just starting. We hiked to a knob for a better view and it had grown to this size in about 5 minutes:

From the location I guessed the power line in the vicinity had broken and ignited the fire. The fire was traveling northeast toward Pleasant Valley and two homes in the "Weston/Lowden" property. It appeared to be leapfrogging the area due to the high winds carrying embers. Flames could easily be seen from across the valley. We headed back and managed to get onto Eastlake Blvd toward home. News crews, firefighters and Nevada Division of Forestry personnel were gathering as NDF brush trucks maintained a perimeter and protected homes. There was quite a bit of confusion at the 395/Eastlake intersection as an exasperated highway patrolman was trying to direct traffic to maintain an open lane for emergency vehicles. My hats off to him in his efforts.

photo submitted by Tom (Thanks!)

The power was out at home when we arrived but came on at about 7pm (Thanks Sierra Pacific!). Later the smoke was concentrated between Pleasant Valley and Mt Davidson above Virginia City. Hopefully the fire can be contained before it reaches the virgin pinion pine forest in that vicinity. Thanks to all the fire personnel and other public employees that have been tending to the public safety during this emergency. Hopefully the damage will be contained and this early fire will serve as a reminder to all to be extremely careful in the sagebrush.
April 29, 2008
Comment on this article

Comment On Washoe Valley "Scenic Byway"

(We have teamed up with the local Scenic Byway committee to provide an overview of the proposal and enable local residents to comment on the idea- editor):

A group of Washoe Valley citizens are in the process of preparing an application for an 18 mile Scenic Byway around Washoe Valley. The purpose of the Scenic Byway is to provide visitors to Washoe Valley with a greater awareness and appreciation of the beautiful scenic vistas, numerous historical sites and abundant recreational opportunities available within the valley.

As a starting point, the working group has identified many of the outstanding features which make Washoe Valley a unique and treasured resource to the region. We would greatly appreciate the benefit of your knowledge of the area to assist us in completing this task.

To participate in the Scenic Byway project, please click on this link to our Scenic Byway Pages to learn more about the project and to submit your ideas. Based upon your input, a public meeting will be held to discuss and finalize the application.
April 27, 2008
Comment on this article

South Valleys Area Plan - Joint Meeting Agenda for May 7

The changes and latest draft of the proposed SVAP will be reviewed at a joint meeting of the Washoe Valley CAB's at Bartley Ranch Park on May 7th at 6:30 pm. Since the county commissioners sent the draft back to the county planning dept. several months ago with orders to include the concerns of the concerned citizens of the Washoe Valley Working Group among others, they have been working with the group to create a plan more favorable to the residents of Washoe Valley. Commercial property owners in Washoe City have also reportedly made organized appeals to the planning dept.
April 28, 2008
Comment on this article

Deadman's Creek Trail System Upgraded

Our neighbors at Washoe Lake State Park have upgraded the Deadman's Creek Trail system while we weren't looking. Yes, it really is a trail "system" now. We are really appreciative of all the work the State Parks staff has done and enjoyed the newly upgraded trails recently. The paths have been widened, smoothed and most importantly brush and grass have been moved back to give a good view of the trail ahead. This is important for the summer snake season. A map of the trail system is here. There is the main trail that was completed a couple of years ago that arrives at the gazebo and viewpoint on a more gradual grade than the original trail. The original steep trail has been improved. The trail that branches off to the east (left) near the top  winds through the rocks and past the "mine" and has been improved and now makes a great alternative return to the trail head. This trail also intersects the one that continues north to the State Parks Ranger Station. From there you can walk the old water ditch along the highway back to the main trailhead. For a longer and more challenging hike, you can continue past the gazebo and take the jeep road up the hill and connect with the "main" dirt road that continues down to the Ranger Station trailhead. So there are 5 or 6 loops you can choose to take.

We don't know where the "Deadman" came from in the name for this area but have seen the Deadman's Ranch mentioned in old newspaper articles in this vicinity. There is a well tended grave at the main trailhead though. If anyone knows the story behind this, let me know!
April 27, 2008
Comment on this article

West Washoe CAB Agenda For May

There will be a presentation by the Illegal Dumping Task Force and the Nevada Highway Users Coalition at the May 5th meeting of the CAB at the Bowers Fire Station according to the agenda here.
April 29, 2008
Comment on this article

Calling All Horse People!

On Sat. May 3 the Nevada All State Trail Riders are having their 8th Annual Trail Trials. We are also having a tack sale. This event at the Washoe Lake State Park equestrian area. The trail trial is for any horse and rider. You have a 5 mile loop around the park with 8 fun obstacles. For $35.00 and $20. for juniors you get lunch and a cool award. If you want to consign any tack or if you want an entry please call 849-9271. You do not have to enter the ride to consign any tack. Everyone is welcome to come and shop.

We have been trying to get a arena finished at the park. All the panels have been purchased, but we need help with finishing this project. If we get a nice arena it will benefit all the horse people in Washoe Valley and the surrounding area. Think about it, we have no public riding arena in the south end of Washoe County. The park could charge to rent it out for shows and other events. Please help. I think we need to form a group to help the park and finish the arena. Call Beth at 849-9271.
April 27, 2008
Comment on this article

West Washoe CAB April Minutes

Of Note:

• Mr. Lowden separated his business from Mr. Weston, which had originated as the Weston-Lowden plan from the South Valleys Area Plan. He submitted a separate plan to sub-divide his approximately sixty acre parcel of land into five-acre parcels.

• The first joint meeting between West Washoe Valley and East Washoe Valley to discuss the finalization of the South Valleys Area Plan would be held on May 7, 2008 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Bartley Ranch. The second meeting would be held on May 28, 2008. The County Planning Commission would approve of the changes at their June 17, 2008 meeting. The plan would then be presented to the County Commission on July 28, 2008. It would then be presented to Regional Planning for final approval somewhere between August and October 2008.

• There will be two upcoming vacancies on the West Washoe Valley CAB due to the fact that Chairperson Struffert would be retiring on June 30, 2008. Board member Countryman would also be retiring from the Board this year.

• Sgt. Phil Condon introduced Deputy Brian Atkinson, who patrols the area on a daily basis. Sgt. Condon reported the area was quiet in crime activity. During the past month, there were three false alarms; one fraud case; and one disturbance case.

• [The Sierra Fire Protection district reported that] One of the grants would fund a position for a person who would complete fuel inspections throughout the fire district. They would also look for defensible space and identify danger areas. They would then contact the land owner requesting the area be cleared. If the area was not cleaned up within thirty days, they would go in and clean it up and charge the land owner for the cost.

• A long discussion involving the SFPD budget woes ensued.

• South Valleys Area Plan - Board member Countryman requested Bob Rusk’s name be removed from the agenda item due to the fact that more Board members were involved on the plan. She stated they were making great strides to get the plan worded and shaped to fit the community. The draft plan should be available this month. Board member Countryman also reported Mr. Weston was requesting a special option be put on the plan. She encouraged
  individuals to review that special option.

Concerns/Comments
• Board member Sheltra requested to know if Eric Young and Adrian Freund would go along with the plan. Board member Countryman explained it would be the Board who would make the decision. Chairperson Struffert reported the County Commission has stated very clearly the changes they wanted and, unless the changes were in there, the community was not going to recommend acceptance. Board member Countryman stated the changes asked for including the changes from the County Commission were in the
main draft. There would be options attached to the back of the main draft for the Commission to review and decide upon.
• Cliff Low requested clarification of what Mr. Lowden was requesting. Chairperson Struffert stated Mr. Lowden was requesting a zoning change. It was reported Mr. Weston was requesting a special option to the South Valleys Area Plan.

April 27, 2008
Comment on this article

Valley Residents Open Pizza Bistro

“You Go to Brugos!”. That’s what Brugos very first reviewer wrote unsolicited about Carson City’s newest eating place located on North Carson Street and next to Starbucks. A unique Pizza Bistro, the award winning eatery opened March 1st to resounding success, and it continues to build each day.

“It has been absolutely wonderful to have so many guests come in and tell us how much they love our pizza and Tuscan bistro,” states Chris McDonald, who owns Brugos along with her husband Troy, both longtime Nevadans and Washoe Valley residents. “And the best part of it is, they keep coming back in and telling their friends to try us. If it hadn’t been for all the terrific people we have as guests, we wouldn’t be doing so well!”

Brugos is a great place to relax and enjoy a fabulous dinner at a reasonable price. When a guest walks in they are instantly greeted and shown to one of the Italian table’s special ordered and made for Brugos. From there, a fine dining experience awaits. Reidel wine glasses and imported Austrian Trumer Pilsners are used for the extensive wine and beer list. Full service by attentive servers makes everyone feel special. “We really wanted our service to make everyone feel important,” states Chris. “Too often these days, folks come into a restaurant and feel like the wait staff is doing them a favor by serving them. Well, not here. Our guest is doing us a favor by coming in. We want them to know they are appreciated.”

And what about the pizza? “Our pizza is absolutely delicious! Try any one of them. People go out of their way to tell us it is the best pizza they’ve ever had! folks call us from home just to tell us!” laughs Troy McDonald. “I think it’s because we are the only pizza bistro in town that makes everything right here, each day,” says Troy. “We roast our own garlic, make our pesto from fresh basil leaves, our red sauce is spectacular. And Brugos dough is not only fantastic, it too is made right here. When a guest orders a pizza from Brugos, be it cooked or Take and Bake, that’s when the pizza is made because our pizzas are not pre made or frozen. Each one is handmade with fresh ingredients. Nothing is pre packaged or filled with preservatives. Consequently our pizzas take longer. Six minutes to create the gourmet pizza, and six minutes to cook in Brugo’s amazing stone, gas fired pizza oven,”, Troy refers to fondly as “Giuseppe”!

Tuscan rock and Italian lighting create the Bistro atmosphere accompanied by Italian music often sung by Dean Martin, Pavarotti, and Frank Sinatra. “We also feature really wonderful shows from the past including Dean Martin, Sammy, and Frank, and our guests just love this! And as the weather turns to summer, Brugos has a lovely patio area on the 395 side of the Bistro too. Beer and wine are available to also take home. Brugos, located in the North Towne Shopping Center next to Starbucks is open seven days a week .

See reviews, photos, menu and map here at yelp.com
editors note: While just outside Washoe Valley, this business is owned by Washoe Valley residents and is, from personal experience, a really great addition to close dining choices for Washoe Valley residents.
April 27, 2008
Comment on this article

Fire Drill A Success

Jane Countryman of the West Washoe CAB was quoted in this RGJ.com article that reported on the Evacuation Drill for West Washoe Residents on April 19th. The article says that the drill, which targeted about 250 homes, increased residents awareness of not only evacuation, but of fire danger and  fire dept. services. It also helped the fire department assess their notification system and test their evacuation policies. Not only did the Sierra Fire Protection District participate but also the Washoe County Sheriff's Office, the American Red Cross, the Reno Fire Department and Washoe County Animal Control. This KRNV article reports that about 40 residents participated.
April 27, 2008
Comment on this article

NDOT News

In this RGJ article NDOT reports on the following projects of local interest:

Work continues on a new freeway linking south Reno to Washoe Valley and one in Carson City.

Spokesman Scott Magruder said summer projects include the overlay of seven miles of U.S. 395 between Golden Valley and Cold Springs and the asphalt surfacing of Interstate 80 from the California border to Keystone Avenue in Reno, costing about $17.5 million combined. While NDOT is facing a$6 billion shortfall between now and 2015 for major highway projects needed statewide, the two freeways already under construction in Northern Nevada will proceed uninterrupted. "The ones that are ongoing are not in jeopardy at all," Magruder said. "Right now, we're in pretty good shape." Crews continue work on the six-lane I-580 freeway that will link the lower Mount Rose Highway to Winters Ranch and a key component of that project, the towering Galena Creek Bridge. Work stalled in early 2006 after a contractor said the state's design for the bridge left it vulnerable to collapse during high winds, a concern disputed by NDOT engineers. Last year, the state awarded a new $393 million contract to North Dakota-based Fisher Sand and Gravel Co. to finish the Galena Creek Bridge, build three additional smaller bridges and complete 81/2 miles of freeway. The project, expected to cost $500 million in all, is expected to be finished in 2011. Work also continues on the next phase of the Carson City Freeway. Construction of the link between U.S. 50 east and Fairview Drive is expected to be done in 2009 at a cost of $45 million.
April 27, 2008
Comment on this article

Twisted Sisters Stable Update

The Twisted Sisters Stable is moving along. The construction on the inner rooms of the barn is almost done; we've got two tack rooms, a handicapped bathroom, a regular bathroom and a small kitchen. Our next project is planting the trees and plants which we'll border with railroad ties, and then we'll get the drive way and parking areas graveled. The pump is connected to electricity so we no longer have the noise of the generator to drive the well water; thank you to our neighbors for tolerating the noise for the last year. We hope the summer winds are kind to our plants and that our barn cat can persuade the rabbits to leave the landscaping alone!

editors note: the stable is located at the corner of Calrk and Magpie in New Washoe City.
April 13, 2008
Comment on this article

Fire Drill This Saturday, April 19

This article in the RGJ describes this weekends evacuation drill for West Washoe Valley residents. Residents will be called on the reverse 911 system. All the agencies involved will also host a BBQ with food and drinks at the Sierra Fire Protection District Station at 3905 Old Hiway 395 (north of Bowers Mansion). Get your blood pressure checked, your animal "micro chipped", view fire equipment and talk with local personnel.
April 15th, 2008
Comment on this article

House Cleaning Business

We are placing a listing on the services page for this new business:

Local Trees to Restore Slopes

This Nevada Appeal article describes how saplings from the NDF nursery on East Lake Blvd are being used by inmate crews to restore the slopes to the southwest of the valley in the area of the Waterfall Fire. The 2004 fire consumed 9000 acres in the scenic watershed above Carson City. In all, about 7500 trees were planted at the rate of 1000 a day. The inmates relate that they find the work highly rewarding.
April 15, 2008
Comment on this article

March East WV CAB Meeting Notes

The March 11 meeting opened with updates from the County. Ms Tone of the county reminds everyone it is once again bear season and to please put garbage out the morning of collection. The West WV evacuation exercise will be held April 19th. Robin Powell, the new coordinator for our Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA), who is also the Nevada Director of Bird Conservation, introduced herself and reported that the group will be developing an Early Detection, Rapid Response Program.

The comprehensive plan amendment for Sierra Vista Ranches at Washoe Lake (the Weston/Lowden property at the northeast corner of the valley) was discussed and a presentation given by its planners. Concern was expressed that the wording of the amendment was "slipshod" and was not ready for review. Other concerns were raised about the number of lots, wildlife, proximity to the State Park and Scripps Wildlife Area.

Tours of the new freeway construction site are now available by calling Michele Searle of CH2M Hill at 329-7900 for reservations.

The Area Plan progress was updated and it was reported that the negotiations are in the final stages but there will be several public meetings upcoming on the subject in the next flew months.
April 15th, 2008
Comment on this article

Washoe Flats In The News

The restaurant over in Washoe City was featured on the RGJ.com website with a nice article here. The article describes the great atmosphere, food and the outdoor event facilities that can accomodate parties up to 400 with food, entertainment and portable bar. Happy hour is from 4-6 pm every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Sonnie Imes reviewed the restaurant for the Carson Times.
April 15, 2008
Comment on this article

 March West Washoe CAB Meeting Notes

Sierra Reflections Subdivision at the north end of the valley wishes to extend its subdivision map application until 2011. During the sheriff's report, it is noted that a local bicycle group, musclepower.com is using the valley and concern for their safety was expressed. Sgt Phil Condon of the sheriff's dept also reported the west side of the valley was "quiet" last month. A long discussion was held with Chief Green of the Sierra Fire Protection District over the district's money troubles and possible solutions. He also mentioned the West Washoe Valley Evacuation Drill is scheduled for this Saturday, the 19th.

Sarah Tone of the county handed out free dump vouchers and reported that the last free dump day at the Lockwood landfill will be on April 17th. The vouchers can be obtained from county libraries and CAB meetings. Ms Tone went on to say that due to budget restraints county departments will be experiencing cutbacks with the Parks Dept. suffering a 15% cut. The CAB expressed sympathy by suggesting that the county not hold special events in the valley parks.

The Nuisance Committee is expected to complete their work by June. The citizen volunteers of the committee have been meeting for two hours, for twice a month for over a year.

A long conversation with representatives of NDOT was engaged in regarding the Joy Lake/Parker Ranch Road intersection in regards to the freeway construction and also Bellevue Rd in the southeast valley. Next, truck traffic during high wind conditions after completion of the freeway was discussed.

For the complete minutes go here.

April 15, 2008

Comment on this article

Epic Equine Poem by Washoe Valley Resident

Greta Anderson shares her original poem here with us on washoevalley.org. Greta says: "

Prepare your favorite beverage, relax and enjoy her prose here.
March 27, 2008
Comment on this article
photo credit

Easter Celebration

The Pleasant Valley Volunteer Fire Department will be having our 36th annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Washoe Lake State Park on East Lake Blvd on Easter Sunday. There is different age groups ranging from ages 1-12. This event has been a proud tradition for the volunteers for many years. We look forward to seeing all of you from our community and beyond this Easter.

The Easter Bunny will arrive at 12:30pm with the egg hunt starting at 1pm. In addition there will be many prize eggs hidden in the mix, a raffle featuring donations from many local, regional and national contributors, and plenty of food and drink (state of NV food health permit acquired). We thank all of you for your generous support over the years and invite you to spend your holiday with us.
March 20, 2008
Comment on this article

Commissioner Humke In The News

Our county commissioner, David Humke, votes against north valleys citizens efforts to retain their rural lifestyle in this article.
March 20, 2008
Comment on this article

Emergency Kit and Evacuation Plan

In conjunction with the event listed below, the county is providing the following event on April 12:

On April 12, Sierra Fire and Washoe County Animal Services, Sheriffs Office, and Emergency Services are hosting a class to help you prepare a family emergency kit and a community evacuation plan. The two hour class includes animal evacuation information.
Everyone is invited!

10:00 a.m. to Noon
Bower’s Fire Station
3905 Old US HWY 395
Washoe Valley, Nevada
For more information, please contact Chief Michael
Greene, Sierra Fire at: 849-1108
March 20
Comment on this article

Practice Evacuation

In the event of a disaster, like another mudslide or a forest fire, west Washoe residents are invited to a practice evacuation event:

A practice evacuation drill for West Washoe Valley residents will be held on April 19. This is an excellent opportunity to make sure you have everything you need to leave quickly!

April 19, 2008
10:00 a.m. to Noon
Bower’s Fire Station
3905 Old US HWY 395
Washoe Valley, Nevada
For more information, please contact Chief Michael
Greene, Sierra Fire at: 849-1108 or
visit www.washoecounty.us/sierrafire
March 20, 2008
Comment on this article

Bicycle Event Set For Sunday

Washoe Valley will host the Carson City based cycling club musclepowered.org: The Muscle-Powered Ride for Sunday, March 16 will occur WEATHER PERMITTING- that means over 40 degrees, with no falling rain.
Meet at Bowers Mansion State Park in Washoe Valley, 10:30 a.m. Ride will go south along Franktown Road then east and north around Washoe Lake to the 7-11 at the north end of the lake, then turn around and return by the same route. This will track as 28 miles, AND we get to climb the long hill!
Hope you can make it!
Kelly
315-2719
883-6303
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

Mt Rose Area Land Grab

Forces, reportedly private developers with the help of the county, are trying to take 375 acres of public Forest Service land along Mt Rose Hi-way near Galena and give it to developers for commercial development. Their arguments are that it is surrounded by private land and is subject to vandalism. One man's wasted land is another's open space. Also, one man's vandalism is another's recreation here in Nevada. Whether in Galena, North Valleys, or here in Washoe Valley, we should pay attention to these government land exchanges. They can be a double-edged sword- they have been beneficial in giving us more open space here- so far. They can easily be used to take open space away.

From an email from the group:

As you may know, developers have met behind closed doors with Washoe County Planning officials and then came out with a proposed change to our area master plan (known as the Forest Area Plan) to allow them to take over "our" land and build 1200 cluster homes, a hotel (casino?), commercial, etc.

Check out the citizen's group's website Save the Mt Rose Scenic Corridor.
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

Get Involved

The next Washoe County Leadership Academy session will begin on Thursday, April 3, 2008. This is a 12-week program, and is free to participants. Sessions are held on Thursday evenings, from 5:30-9:00pm and dinner is provided for all participants. The last day to submit an application for the Spring 2008 session is Friday, March 14th. The on-line application is located at:

http://www.washoecounty.us/citizens/application.html

For more information, please visit the Academy website:

http://www.washoecounty.us/citizens/wcla.html

Or contact Liz Ortiz at (775) 328-2013 or email at lortiz@washoecounty.us
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

Word On The Street - Scotty's Saloon

Sounds like there will be concert or some such thing goin' on at Scotty's Saturday nite on East Lake Blvd.
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

Weed Website

The folks over at the Washoe/Pleasant Valley Cooperative Weed Management Area group has a new website this year to help coordinate their efforts to fight noxious weeds in our area.

Their Goal: To work cooperatively with landowners, as well as university, federal, state and local government entities to identify and control the spread of noxious and invasive weeds in our valleys.

They are offering help to and enlisting the help of landowners to try to locate and eradicate identified noxious weeds that crowd out local and beneficial plants and cause economic loss. We here at washoevalley.org have another list of local weeds that are not on the official list but nevertheless are troublesome around the home and ranch. We call these "obnoxious weeds" and information on them can be found on our "Gardening Tips" page- click on "What Are Those Weeds?". If you have a weed you want added to our list or have some other weed info, "weed" like to hear from you.

The UNR Cooperative Extension site has several publications on the subject too.
 

March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

East Washoe Valley CAB

Last Tuesdays East WV CAB meeting probably would have been a good one to attend if you are concerned about development in Washoe Valley as the following topic was on the agenda:

Sierra Vista Ranches at Washoe Lake – Review and
recommendations on the request to amend the South Valleys Area Plan, being a part of the Washoe
County Comprehensive Plan. The amendment request would re-designate Assessor's Parcel Number
050-210-22 (+65.58-acres) from the land use category of General Rural (GR) to Medium Density Rural
(MDR). The subject property is located at the southeast corner of the intersection of US Hwy. 395 and
Eastlake Boulevard. The subject parcel is within the Rural Development Area (RDA), and a small portion
(5%) within the Development Constraints Area (DCA); and Area of Interest of the City of Reno, as
identified on Map 7 of the 2007 Truckee Meadows Regional Plan, and therefore may be subject to the
Cooperative Planning standards. The subject parcel is located within Section 19, T17N, R20E, MDM,
Washoe County, Nevada. The property is within Washoe County Commission District 2 and within the
East Washoe Valley Citizen Advisory Board boundary. To reflect changes requested within this
application and to maintain currency of general area plan data, administrative changes to the area plan
are proposed. These administrative changes include: a revised map series with updated parcel base.
Staff Representative: Sandra Monsalve, AICP, Senior Planner Jeffrey Lowden, Sierra Vista Ranches at
Washoe Lake, Applicant

If anyone attended and would like to inform us of the events at the meeting, please write us.

February Minutes wrap-up:

• Ginger Pierce announced that there will be evacuation training on April 12th, at the Bower’s Fire Station with a practice drill the following Saturday.

• A presentation was given on landscaping plans for the freeway extension.

• A new well is being drilled for the Franktown Estates development on the west side.

  • Concerns were raised regarding potential impacts to existing wells from new wells. Ms. Ruefer stated that
  the new well is intended to replace the consumption of the two existing wells.
  • Concerns were raised that development has put the valley at risk for having adequate water and support was
  stated for Washoe County to purchase the remaining undeveloped lots to prevent the added water
  consumption.

If you have any more information to share on this meeting, please let us know.
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

West WV CAB

February Minutes:

• Chairperson Struffert announced that the Sierra Fire Protection District will hold a Training Class and Practice Evacuation here on April 12 and 19, 2008. All residents are invited to attend. (10am at the firehouse on Old 395).

• Chief Mike Green of the west side's Sierra Fire Protection District, says the district is running out of funds.

• South Valleys Area Plan – Board member Rusk reported that there have been three meetings since the last CAB meeting. On January 17, 2008, Sandy Monsalvo met at Bartley Ranch with the commercial people in old Washoe City. He reviewed an excerpt from the meeting regarding an incorrect rumor about changing the commercial corridor from “general commercial” to “neighborhood commercial”. He commented that it was good that this was clarified. Board member Rusk commented that Board member Countryman was in attendance at the meeting on January 23, 2008, along with several other people. He reviewed some of the issues discussed at the meeting. He reported that on January 29, 2008 he called Rosanna Combs, Director of the Regional Governing Board, and asked the status of TMSA as it related to the application submitted by Mr. Weston. She responded that the first deadline that she anticipated they would miss was in June, 2008. That is when the County Commissioners can move it forward. The
  next opportunity for application would then be in December, 2008. The last meeting was held on January 31, 2008, the working group met without staff and formulated five options which he reviewed. Board member Countryman commented that she was at the meeting with the commercial landowners and supported Mr. Naylor in his statement to them that this side of the valley did not support the neighborhood commercial zoning and that had never been the intent. She announced that the next meeting of the working group will be on February 13, 2008, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Bartley Ranch in the schoolhouse.

• Board member Countryman commented that the CAB needs to be aware that approving cluster developments, such as Franktown Estates, where they have the water system is inviting Washoe County to control the water in Washoe Valley. She noted that as stated at the December, 2007 meeting, Washoe County is required by law to take care of those developments above and beyond people on individual wells. She urged everyone to attend the South Valley Area Plan meetings and stand up for their water rights. An audience member commented that on February 12, 2008 at 5:00 or 5:30 p.m. at the County Commissioner’s meeting there is a public hearing to form a general improvement district for the water system for Franktown Estates.

• A presentation on the west valley's power supply was given by Sierra Pacific Power and a discussion ensued on the multiple power interruptions westsiders have been experiencing.

March 13, 2008
Comments on this article

Bonnie Parnell In The News

Our state legislator, assemblywoman, Bonnie Parnell, who chairs the assembly education committee, "warned the chartering agencies not to preempt state policies on charter schools by adopting moratoria. When they were ignored they jointly ordered legislation drawn for the 2009 session that will disestablish the NSBOE and replace it with a board appointed by the governor." as reported in this article in the North Lake Tahoe Bonanza. Read the article to get the full story on Ms. Parnell's efforts.
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

Franktown's 1881 Flood

Local historian Patty Cafferata wrote this article for the Carson Times on the devastating flood in 1881 that wiped out the town of Franktown on the west side of the valley along with a mile of V&T track. The flood was caused by the failure of a private earthen dam up in Little Valley. In those small government days help was denied by the state and most everyone (about 200) moved on and the town was not rebuilt.
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article 

Jackasses Kick Out Donkey

Check out this great article on the NPR site about folks on 4 acres up in Golden Valley who had to sell their jack because of complaints from the neighbors. Even though their property and subdivision, like Washoe Valley, is approved for livestock, including of course, donkeys, they were found guilty and had to sell their animal.

Subsequently a citizen's group went before the county and now apparently, there is a disclosure document new home buyers in the county must initial saying that they may be subject to livestock sights, sounds and smells in their neighborhood. Our own county planner Eric Young is quoted in the article commenting favorably on the requirement.

Does this protect your rights to livestock or is it another step in the loss of rural lifestyle? Check out the article on the NPR site here along with the cool audio version and audio slideshow.
March 13, 2008
Comment on this article

Joint CAB Meeting To Discuss Area Plan

Sandra Monsalve, Senior Planner with Washoe County has given me a rundown on the schedule for working on the Area Plan with our own Groups for February into March. In February they were to have a meeting with the Washoe Valley Commercial Property Owners Group and another with the Washoe Valley Working Group. Today, Wednesday the 27th, they all three groups will have a joint meeting to discuss the groups recommendations and  Washoe County staffs options available concerning the Washoe City Historic Commercial District Land Use Table. This table determines what uses will be allowed in that area on the north side of the valley.

In March, the planners plan to have a joint West and East Washoe Valley public CAB meeting for review/comments and in April or May, public review by the Planning Commission. Then there will finally be a meeting of the Board of County Commissioners in May or June.

I have heard rumors that Rousauers is looking to build a supermarket there when the area plan is finalized and current owners can develop or sell out to commercial interests.
February 27, 2008
Comment on this article

New Photos

Check the Photo Page for new winter photos from residents Larry Dusanic (Thanks, Larry!). Scroll down to the residents section.

Community Fair A Success

The "Community Fair" organized by Washoe County for the residents of Galena was a success for me anyway. I got to talk to a lot of representatives from the county and other government agencies like the US Forest Service. It was good to be able to put faces with the names we see in the papers, news, email lists and other government documents. Everyone from animal control to Regional Planning was there and they were all very helpful and informative. I had a chance to talk to the Forest Service Representative about this years project on the west side of the valley that is aimed at forest thinning to create a buffer zone between development and the forest higher up the hills. It sounds like it will be a good project to protect one of the last unburned areas on the eastern front of the Carson Range from human caused fires.
February 10, 2008
Comment on this article

Community Fair Tomorrow

Washoe County will be hosting a "Community Fair" at Galena High tomorrow" This from Sarah Tone, Community Outreach:

... Thought you and all of Washoe Valley would be interested in this upcoming event. Washoe County Community Development is hosting a community fair on February 9. The purpose is to bring representatives from multiple local services to explain “how things work: providing services to citizens in Washoe County.” This will be a very interesting, non-formal, opportunity to ask staff questions one on one. Representatives from Water Resources, Washoe County Schools, USFS, Regional Planning, Sierra Fire, Animal Services, Emergency Response, and more will be available. The fair will be held at Galena High school, 3600 Butch Cassidy Way in the theater foyer. 9 am to noon. For more information, please call 328-3600 or email eyoung@washoecounty.us. Attached is the flyer for reference. I hope to see you there!

This is a chance to get those questions asked and your concerns expressed, one on one!
 

Here's the flyer from the county.
February 7, 2008
Comment on this article

County Goes After Mt Rose Hwy Area Ala Washoe Valley

Having been stalled on the South Valley's Area Plan Update by citizen protests, the Washoe County Planning Department is trying to update the "Forest Plan" for the Mt. Rose/Galena/Callahan Ranch area. While called a "Forest Plan", it apparently sounds more like a "Cluster Development and Commercial Area Development Plan" by citizens of that region on their website at Mtrosesceniccorridor.com.

Issues include vague wording in the plan, water, 1200 unit cluster development(s), commercial development, and transferring Forest Service (public) land to a private developer. You can sign up for their email updates by sending a note to savemtrose@earthlink.net

These are much the same issues residents of Washoe Valley, and all residents of Washoe County, are facing in dealing with county planning issues.

Editorial:

It would be great if the citizens of the county could fight the "Divide and Conquer" tactics of developers and county planners by utilizing community websites like mtrosescenicorridor.com, northvalleys.org, galenareno.com and washoevalley.org to share information and coordinate county-wide debate and planning.
February 7, 2008
Comment on this article

East WV CAB Agenda

The meeting for next Tuesday, February 12th, will include the following topics: a I-580/Meadowood Complex Landscape and Aesthetic Presentation;  Franktown Estates Municipal Well, Well Mitigation Hearing Board and Washoe Valley Hydrology;  Regional Animal Services Overview; along with the usual news and updates from representatives of the local fire, sheriff and county offices. The meeting starts at 7pm at the NDF building on north Eastlake Blvd.
February 7, 2008
Comment on this article

Area Plan Update

This from the December 11, 2007 East WV CAB meeting: Area Plan Update – Dave Harrison reported that they met with staff to work on a timeline for discussion of the issues. The next discussion will be on Land Use Tables. Bill Naylor stated that there has been discussion about a possible land swap with Bureau of Land Management and the Weston land. Dave Harrison stated that Adrian Freund, Director, Department of Community Development has stated that he would discuss this issue with Mr. Lowden and Mr. Weston.
February 7, 2008
Comment on this article

Bonnie Parnell Comments on Charter Schools

"Charter schools provide a choice and a different option for students from the traditional kind of K-12 program," said state Assemblywoman Bonnie Parnell, D-Carson City and chairwoman of the Legislature's interim Education Committee. She said the committee will meet Feb. 21 in Las Vegas to discuss charter schools." This is the quote in this article from RGJ.com
February 7, 2008
Comment on this article

Sierra Snowpack Survey

Photos From Our Neighbors

"Snow Daze"

Cindy and John G (and friend) show that the snow isn't all bad!

Safety Tips from Pleasant Valley VFD

• Install Smoke alarm(s) near bedrooms and on each floor of your home.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends carbon monoxide alarm system to be included near bedrooms and on each floor of your home.
• Make sure heating equipment  is installed properly.  Have a trained specialist or your local Gas company inspector inspect and tune up your heating system each year.
• Keep portable space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn, including bedding, furniture, and clothing.
• Always use a space heater that is equipped with automative shut off when tipped over.
• Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
• Have your fireplace chimney and flue inspected each year and cleaned if needed.
• Never use your range or oven to heat your home, even for a short time. 
   

January 29, 2008
Comment on this article

Horses & Art

Just a thought. I see where there is a get together in Montana where those who like to dress up in period western dress get together with a select group of artists who need western models and they spend a weekend posing and shooting reference photos. Sounds like fun and it seems that we have a good supply of both types around here. Let me know if you think this could fly and want to help arrange it.
January 29, 2008
Comment on this article

NHP Officer injured in WV

Winds reported to be 50mph creating white-out conditions has caused several accidents today including one injuring a NHP officer. At this time, 11am on Tuesday the highway is closed. It is relatively mild here on the east side but I just looked out and counted 9 snowplows headed south, one after the other. Reportedly (from channel 8) an SUV towing a large travel trailer hit the patrolman's car and both went into the median with the travel trailer rolling over. From the video on ch8 it looked completely destroyed. The injuries to the officer do not sound life-threatening. Here's a video from earlier in January.
January 29, 2008
Comment on this article

This one was taken today at about 11am on old 395

Washoe Valley Travelogue by Richard Moreno

"One of the best things about driving from Carson City to Reno is traveling through Washoe Valley." is the beginning of this article for the Lahontan Valley Times of Fallon by author Richard Moreno as he describes the beauty of Washoe Valley and its illustrious history.
January 28, 2008
Comment on this article

Franktown's Flying ME Video

William and Sandra McGee, authors of "The Divorce Seekers", a history of the dude ranch industry in Washoe Valley, have posted a video on youtube. It is a seven minute preview of a one-hour DVD that they have available of a 2004 get-together at the ex-Flying ME dude ranch, now a private residence. The gathering brought together local residents and historians who reminisced about the dude ranch times in Washoe Valley, circa 1930-1960. Even though it is a "preview", it is fun to watch if you are interested in Washoe Valley history. Click on the screenshot to go to the video. There is also more about the book on our History Page. We have it and it is a great book. The author's website is here.
January 29, 2008
Comment on this article

More Eagles

We heard rumours that there were sometimes TWO eagles on the popular perch at South Beach and now Jim T. sends in this proof.
January 28, 2008
Comments on this article

New Beginnings Church

Our local Christian church in New Washoe City outlines their programs and services on this page. They welcome new members and visitors and have a new director. They also offer a child development center with a wide variety of programs, Full time, Part time, Before & After School (Bus stops here) and Drop-in. They are now accepting applications for the spring semester for ages 2 - 12.
January 23, 2008
Comment on this article

A Letter From An "Old Timer"

From my frame of reference it seems odd to call someone who was a kid in 1960 an "old timer" but it was 48 years ago, after all. But we don't get much correspondence from old timers here so I'm going to make use of it any with apologies to the writer, Pat Russell currently of Oregon. Hope you enjoy his reminiscences and comments as much as I did. Plus he's the one that gave the clue about Sundown Town on the History Page. Thanks, Pat!
January 23, 2008
Comment on this article

Deed Restrictions: A Reader Asks

A reader asks why has not only the name removed from the Deed Restriction correspondence discussion but why the county’s letter was edited and information removed. The simple answer is that I was asked to remove it. The long answer, and a discussion of the philosophy of this website is in this article.
January 21, 2008
Comment on this article

Washoe Valley Something Special

Washoe Valley resident and author Ellen Hopkins writes about her love of the valley in this essay from her Blog.

I live in a place called Washoe Valley. It is a high valley (5300 feet), surrounded by hills on three sides and the spectacular Sierra Nevada to the west. Washoe Lake, a relatively shallow but large body of snowmelt sprawls across much of it, and many acres of wetlands serve as home to varied wildlife, including an amazing array of birds, who often stop through on their way here or there. We are, in fact, on the Pacific Flyway.

The valley lies between two small cities---Reno to the north, Carson City to the south. It is rural, with all of the homes here sitting on a minimum of one acre; some on many more. There are mini-ranches, alfalfa fields, and a state park, fronting the lake. Still, it's not even close to as rural is many, many places. A twenty-minute drive brings you to town, stores, malls, casinos, concerts and an international airport. Yet when we first moved out here, friends who lived in town acted like we moved to the sticks. "Why would you want to live all the way out THERE?" But I've always loved it here (been here 18 years). And one of the things I love most is the wildlife.

Vast herds of deer escape the autumn hunt in the hills by descending into the alfalfa fields (private property... no hunting!), where they fatten up for winter. Coyotes regularly call, and cats had better be inside at night, for coyotes aren't shy about prowling neighborhood streets. Flocks of quail inhabit our yards. Watching the babies drink from my ponds is a source of great pleasure. I've twice seen golden eagles up close. One was on ground and at my approach, lifted a six-foot wing span into the air. The other dived as we watched, snatched up a huge snake, lifted it into the air and dropped it before diving again to claim its supper.

Yesterday I was driving home and I happened to turn my head toward the lake. There, perched at the very top of a large cottonwood, staring out over the shimmering water, was a bald eagle. Now goldens are beautiful. But bald eagles are flat magnificent. He turned his head side to side, as if posing for a video. Then he looked straight at me. One of those moments that take your breath away.

I talked about those moments in an earlier blog. Often we are too busy, or in too much of a hurry, or maybe just too damn pissed off at the world to take notice. Every day offers such moments. When you find yourself pissed off at the world, slow down. Look around you. Maybe you'll catch sight of a baby's smile. Puppies wrestling. A butterfly sipping nectar. Or, if you're really lucky, a bald eagle posing atop a cottonwood tree.
January 20, 2008
Comment on this article

Piano Lessons in New Washoe City

If "Guitar Hero" and "Rock Band" have inspired your kids (or you) to get serious about actually learning how to play here is an excellent, and convenient way to get there. This ad is running in the Free Want Ads section and also listed on the Local Services Page: 

PIANO LESSONS
Enjoy playing the piano and learning to read music. Music education is beneficial at many levels.
Availability of traditional after-school times are limited. Home-schooled children and adults with
flexible schedules are also welcome. Meredyth Lewis, a resident of Washoe Valley, is a classically-trained pianist, holds a Bachelor of Music in Piano Pedagogy, and is a nationally certified teacher of music. Lessons begin at $25 for 30 minutes once a week at the teacher's residence. Please call 849-2825.
January 11, 2008
Comment on this article

Further Deed Restriction Clarification From the County

In response to the question about the enforcement of deed restrictions in New Washoe City, our East WV CAB chair got the following response from Washoe County:

A quick question that results from the letter; Is the
county really not required to check building
restrictions before issuing building permits?
Regards
Dave Harrison
Chair
EWVCAB

--------------------------

From: "Webb, Bob" <bwebb@washoecounty.us>
To: "dave harrison" <daveharrisonb@yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 21 Nov 2007 11:24:09 -0800
Subject: RE: FW: deed restrictions
Dave:

Glad you asked.  No, current County regulations do not require staff to
request for or validate deed restrictions.  It is assumed that property
owners will provide any pertinent deed restrictions as part of a
building permit application.  If the deed restrictions hinder or apply
to the requested permit, then the County will make sure that its permit
approval doesn't violate the existing, current deed restrictions.

The case referred to XXXXXXXXX is one building (a garage).  Staff
researched the deed restrictions on the property building the garage
after a complaint by XXXXXXXX;  the search revealed two deeds (the
current deed and the one preceding the current deed), neither of which
had any deed restrictions whatsoever.  
Bob Webb
Planning Manager
Washoe County Department of Community Development
328-3623
bwebb@washoecounty.us

-------------------------

Editor's note: I don't know if it applies in this case but,  New Washoe City is made up of many individual "developments" and is intermingled with properties that are not developments. So your neighbor might not have the same deed restrictions or CC&R's you have or might not have any at all.
January 8th, 2008
Comment on this article

Reaction To D+

Our valley legislator is in the news with her opinion of the states recent grade of a D+ in education in this Las Vegas Sun article.

"As this morning's meeting of the Legislative Committee on Education got underway, Assemblywoman Bonnie Parnell, D-Carson City, said the report left her with a feeling of "sadness."

The committee, which Parnell chairs, is meeting today to discuss Gov. Jim Gibbons' proposed 4.5 percent cuts to K-12 education."
January 11, 2008
Comment on this article

East WV CAB News

As it turned out, due to the accident on 395 and the resulting traffic jam, the CAB meeting had to be
cancelled. A couple of the CAB members as well as the recording secretary couldn't make it and the resulting lack of quorum mandated the cancellation. The agenda for this meeting will be continued in it's
entirety as well as any additions on February 12th. Current Agenda & December Minutes.

December Minutes Notes:

Postal Cafe Vending Machines broken into, Community Emergency Awareness Training, Additional well for Franktown Estates, Winters Ranch Update, Nuisance committee update, Scenic Byways Update, Area Plan update.
January 9, 2008
Comment on this article

Final Open Space Public Meeting

Last chance to give your input on open space and recreational opportunities in Washoe Valley in the new parks plan being drafted. See the whole flyer here.

Open Space Plan Public Input Workshop

Thursday, January 24, 2008

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Wilbur D. May Museum
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park

1595 N. Sierra Street, Reno

January 9, 2008
Comment on this article

Storms Continue To Pound Washoe Valley

The crew at the washoevalley.org Weather Center couldn't stand it any longer and had to jump into the media bandwagon with that headline. While some of us here remember deeper snowfalls on the valley floor in recent years, maybe we don't quite remember so many storms in a row or the depressing gray skies hanging around so much. Right now, Tuesday morning, there are white-out conditions on 395 through the valley and reportedly numerous spin outs. NHP troopers are escorting cars through. Here in New Washoe City, however things are pretty calm and gray. Word is that KOLO channel has video of the hood blowing off a troopers car in WV this morning. It does not appear to be on their website, however.

 See these photos and more on the local website of Don Tucker at Tucker Times. Look for the link to flickr for more photos.

January 8, 2008
Comment on this article

A Washoe Valley Christmas

Thanks to all those who put up Christmas lights for us to enjoy over the holidays! Here is a sample from our cornier of the 'hood. If you have photos, send them in!

January 8, 2008
Comment on this article

Response to Deed Restrictions Letter

On December 3, 2007 we published this letter addressed to the East WV CAB about the possibility of enforcing the deed restrictions here in Washoe Valley to help maintain property values among other things. Here are some responses we have received:

This letter spurs consideration of a Homeowners Association or possible Architectural Committee.   In my observation the 45 year old Deed Restrictions have been abandoned by over 50% of the New Washoe City Residents.   If Deed Restrictions are wanted by the New Washoe City Residents they should form a Committee, hire legal council to prepare updated Deed Restrictions, create Bylaws, charge annual dues and police the neighborhood for offenders.   I don't want this.... Do you?

------------------------------------

Sundown Town

Read all about "the most western town in America" right here in Washoe Valley. NEW on the History Page.
January 8, 2008
Comment on this article

Archive for 7/1/2007 thru 1/1/2008

Archive for 2/5/2007 thru 6/30/2007

Archive for 11/2/2006 thru 3/5/2007

Archive for 3/2006 thru 11/1/2006

Archive for 12/2005 thru 3/27/2006

Next
Times, places and dates may change so
check the agendas before going.

West Washoe Valley CAB
Meeting
Monday, July 7
(1st Monday)
7pm

Bowers VFD
3905 Old 395

East Washoe Valley CAB
Meeting
Tuesday, July 15
(3rd Tuesday)
7pm


NDF Building
Eastlake Blvd

Sign up for county emails and news here

South Valleys Area Plan Draft

Dog versus Skunk Remedy

1 qt Hydrogen Peroxide
1/4 cup Baking Soda
1 tsp Detergent

Wait till it foams in a bucket and apply. Will chemically change the smell-not just mask it.

Animal Disaster Plan Brochure

ONGOING

County Commission

Give public comment on your vision of Washoe Valley during
the public speaking segment.
(2nd, 3rd, & 4th Tuesday)
2 PM
Commission Chambers
1001 East 9th, Reno

Free Legal Assistance
The Washoe County Law Library has a program where you can show up between 5 and 7 pm every Wednesday and get a review of your legal issue. It is located on the 1st floor of the library at 75 Court St. Reno. They also offer free seminars every month so check out their website here for more info.

Help Wanted: Reporter

Ever wanted to be a reporter but never went to journalism school, or had  any experience? Turned off by deadlines? Want to volunteer in the community on your own schedule? We have the job for you. Become a washoevalley.org reporter. Go to public meetings, profile local businesses and residents, submit general observations about Washoe Valley life. Presidents Bush and Clinton all urge us to volunteer. Sign up today!

Free course in getting involved in the county government process! Here's your chance!
You missed the spring session but they plan on doing this twice a year.