News Briefs
Volunteers Remove More Than 8,500 Pounds of Trash Following Fourth of July
LAKE TAHOE
Over the course of just three hours on the morning of July 5, 402 volunteers cleaned up 8,559 pounds of litter left from Fourth of July celebrations at Lake Tahoe.
Cigarette butts, plastic food wrappers, beach toys, and even barbecues were plucked from six popular beach sites, as well as nearby parking lots and streets around the Tahoe Basin. Several of the sites were relatively litter-free, including Commons Beach in Tahoe City and Kings Beach State Recreation Area, showing the impact that trash cans, restrooms, and management staff can have to prevent pollution.
The League to Save Lake Tahoe has organized the annual July 5 “Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue” Beach Cleanup since 2014. Despite several clean beaches, the trash removed this year is tragically an all-time high on this, the 10th anniversary of Tahoe’s largest litter cleanup event.
“This morning, one of Tahoe’s beaches looked like a landfill. Thanks to passionate volunteers and community partners, it started to look like Tahoe again after some hard work,” noted Dr. Darcie Goodman Collins, CEO of the League to Save Lake Tahoe. “To Keep Tahoe Blue, everyone who enjoys this place must act more like our volunteers and partners by doing their part. It starts with leaving nothing behind and picking up any trash you come across. Unless each of us share in the responsibility for protecting this place, it could be ruined.”
Zephyr Shoals, an unmanaged stretch of beach on Tahoe’s east shore, was by far the most impacted of the six cleanup sites. Notably, the site is far from permanent trash cans, dumpsters, or toilets. An astounding 6,279 pounds of litter — the equivalent of a 3/4-ton pickup truck — was strewn across the narrow strip of sand and piled between bushes and trees in the nearby forest. The area is cleaned regularly by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency’s “Tahoe Blue Crew,” a volunteer program offered by the league. Although they cleaned the beach just before the Fourth of July, an amazing amount of trash accumulated in just one day. Because the Lake Tahoe Basin behaves like a giant granite funnel, any trash left behind will move downhill and into the lake’s blue waters.
Understanding the threat that litter poses to wildlife and the local ecosystem, 14 businesses, organizations, and local governments partnered with the league to bring this massive litter cleanup event to life: Mananalu Pure Water, Clean Up the Lake, Stio Mountain Studio, Zephyr Cove Resort, Bally’s Lake Tahoe, ECO-CLEAN Solutions, California State Parks, the City of South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City Public Utility District, USFS-Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, Vista Recreation, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, Tahoe City Downtown Association, Northstar California Resort, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, and Heavenly Mountain Resort.
This broad collaboration exemplifies the concept of shared stewardship: when individuals, public and private groups come together to Keep Tahoe Blue.
Each cleanup location included its own unique features, including the BEBOT, an electric, beach-cleaning robot that sifts the sand to remove tiny plastic bits and other trash. The League to Save Lake Tahoe worked with ECO-CLEAN Solutions to bring the robot to Tahoe in 2022. Another innovative technology, a mobile watercraft cleaning station, was introduced for the first time on July 5. The league, together with TRPA, provided funding for the trailer-mounted station that any paddler can use to remove ecologically disastrous invasive species from kayaks or paddle boards before they hit the water. The station will be deployed at several locations through the summer. Divers from nonprofit Clean Up the Lake also plucked trash from below the water at Zephyr Shoals, continuing their important underwater trash removal mission.
~ League to Save Lake Tahoe press release
Adopted Budget For a Growing Population
PLACER COUNTY
With an eye on its “getting growth right” initiative, the Placer County Board of Supervisors adopted its fiscal year 2023/24 budget, increasing funding for community services to keep up with demand from a growing population.
The $1,276,837,090 budget is $55.6 million, or 4.6%, higher than in fiscal year 2022/23.
The adopted budget is the county’s operating budget for the new fiscal year as of July 1.
The county’s “getting growth right” initiative is one of five policy priorities identified in this year’s budget, intended to ensure county services keep pace with continued growth in western Placer communities.
“This is a very large budget,” said District 1 Supervisor Bonnie Gore. “But the fact that we’re in a strong place, with reserves, is thanks to the strong fiscal decisions of previous boards of supervisors. We are really fortunate to be in this strong position.”
The budget funds increases in staffing to meet demand for services for the growing population of west Placer County, especially for land use development review and permitting, health and human services support, and law enforcement.
These include five new deputies for the sheriff’s office and a new lieutenant position to oversee law enforcement activities of the reorganized county Office of Emergency Services, 12 new positions for the Community Development Resource Agency, and 10 new positions each for Health and Human Services and Public Works.
The growth in costs is balanced largely by increasing revenue from property and sales taxes as Placer’s real estate market and economy remain strong. While the county expects continued economic growth through the budget year, it continues to maintain a general “rainy day” reserve of at least 10% of annual expenditures; holding $6 million more in reserve in 2023/24 than its $63 million reserve target.
As it has since the start of the Covid pandemic, Placer County continues to use federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act and American Rescue Plan Act funds to support a response to the pandemic and also address infrastructure, broadband, and affordable housing needs.
CARES Act funding is allocated in the 2023/24 budget to help pay for new and replacement buses as well as infrastructure upgrades for Placer County Transit, Placer Commuter Express, and Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transportation. ARPA funds would support continuing investments in broadband infrastructure for underserved areas in Placer County.
~ Placer County press release
Library Services and Programs Temporarily Relocate to WorkSpace
TRUCKEE
The Truckee Library building will close from July 17 through mid-October for updates. Library services and programming will remain available at the Truckee Library WorkSpace, the Joseph Government Center, Truckee Regional Park, and other community locations. The building is getting new paint, flooring, furniture, and needed upgrades to the county-owned facility, which opened to the public in 1976.
“The space will feel brighter and more welcoming for patrons with moveable furniture and modernized seating options for programming, coworking, and reading,” says Nick Wilczek, county librarian. “The Truckee population has multiplied by 10 since the Truckee Library opened to the public nearly 50 years ago. Our team has worked hard to ensure that we continue to provide services and programs during this time and that the current facility serves our patrons as best it can while we work with the community on the larger Truckee Library vision.”
Library Services at the Truckee Library WorkSpace
Through the closure, the adjacent Truckee Library WorkSpace will be open for holds pick up with access to WiFi, computers, and a collection of browsable materials. Library cardholders will also be able to check out internet hotspots, California State Parks passes and items from the Recreation Collection.
The Truckee Library WorkSpace is located at 10879 Donner Pass Rd., Suite A, in front of the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office substation in Truckee. The Truckee Library WorkSpace will be open during the same Monday through Saturday hours.
~ Nevada County press release
Construction of New Tunnel Creek Singletrack Trail Begins
INCLINE VILLAGE
Construction of the new 2.3-mile Tunnel Creek Singletrack Trail is now underway, thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Tahoe Fund, a Recreation Trails Program grant from Nevada State Parks, and trail-building efforts by Great Basin Institute and the Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association (TAMBA). This new trail will reduce conflicts between hikers and bikers on the busy Tunnel Creek Road, which is a popular route to and from Monkey Rock, Marlette Flume Trail, Incline Flume Trail, and the Tahoe Rim Trail.
“This trail will provide new opportunities for sustainable recreation in the Tahoe Basin and make the experience better and safer for two very different user groups,” said Amy Berry, Tahoe Fund CEO. “We are thankful to all of our donors for helping us raise the funds necessary to make this trail a reality, and to our great partners at Nevada State Parks, Great Basin Institute, and TAMBA for their hard work to build it.”
The trail will be constructed to the International Mountain Biking Association’s green classification with grades of less than 15% and an average of 8%. Trail users can expect to see trail crews and equipment on Tunnel Creek Road this season as crews begin the work of trail alignment and installation of at least one bridge.
“The Nevada Division of State Parks is excited to improve the experience for park visitors. It is a long-standing goal of the division to provide safer and sustainable recreation within Spooner Lake and Backcountry State Park, and this project will be an asset for many years to come,” said Kevin Fromherz, conservation staff specialist, Nevada Tahoe Resource Team, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. “We would like to thank the Tahoe Fund, Great Basin Institute, Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association, Nevada Tahoe Resource Team, Flume Trail Bikes, Nevada Department of Wildlife, Tunnel Creek Lodge, and the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Environmental Improvement Program for their hard work in planning and permitting this project. We are excited to see construction begin.”
The Great Basin Institute, with support from the Nevada Conservation Corps program, TAMBA, Nevada State Parks, Flume Trail Bikes, Nevada Tahoe Resource Team, and the Tunnel Creek Lodge, secured a $72,265 grant from Nevada State Parks through the Recreation Trails Program for the first phase of trail construction.
Learn more about the project at tahoefund.org.
~ Tahoe Fund press release
Campaign Highlights Dangers of Cold Water
LAKE TAHOE
Every year, an average of seven people drown in Lake Tahoe due to cold water shock. A new safety education campaign from Take Care Tahoe is encouraging those who spend time in Lake Tahoe to wear a life jacket and “think before you sink.” Envisioned by local Girl Scout and South Lake Tahoe high school student Sadie Beall, the campaign was designed to educate people about the dangers of cold water shock, how quickly it can happen, and how to avoid drowning. Several marinas, kayak, and SUP rental operators in the Tahoe Basin have already agreed to help get the word out to their customers about the campaign.
“Growing up in Tahoe, I’ve been around the lake and its cold water for my entire life. My dad has always worked at a marina, and boating is part of our life, so hearing about cold water shock and drownings that unfortunately happen every year is not unusual,” Beall said. “In launching this campaign, my goal is to educate people about what cold water shock is, and how it can be avoided while still enjoying Lake Tahoe.”
Cold water shock occurs when the body enters extremely cold water and the muscles lock up, resulting in temporary paralysis. Marinas and other watercraft rental operators participating in the campaign will post cold water shock posters and stickers with QR codes that drive visitors to the Take Care Tahoe website for more information. There, viewers will find facts about cold water shock such as:
- Within 15 minutes in cold water, blood flow decreases to the extremities to preserve heat at the core. You will lose movement of legs and arms and will be unable to stay afloat unless you are wearing a life vest.
- 55% of all open-water drownings occur within 10 feet of safe refuge.
- 66% of people who drown in cold water are regarded as strong swimmers.
Information shared on the campaign page also includes boating laws related to lifejacket use, live lake conditions information, and forecast models for water temperature, wave height, and water currents, as compiled by the UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center. Site visitors will also find details about proper boating etiquette on Lake Tahoe, information from the Lake Tahoe Water Trail, and other resources related to cold water shock.
Learn more about cold water shock and how to prevent it at takecaretahoe.org.
~ Take Care Tahoe press release
National Forest Seeking Public Comment on Pines to Mines Trail Project
TRUCKEE
The Tahoe National Forest is seeking public comment on the Pines to Mines Trail Project Preliminary Environmental Assessment. The opportunity to comment ends 30 days following the date of publication of the legal notice, which occurred on June 23, in The Union newspaper. The detailed scoping letter, comment period letter, draft proposed action, Preliminary Environmental Assessment, and site-specific maps for this project are available online at fs.usda.gov/project.
The Pines to Mines Trail Project proposes the development of a multi-use native surface trail system connecting Nevada City to Truckee. The system would be approximately 68 miles in length and would include existing Forest Service trails and new trail construction, with the project area located in the Tahoe National Forest within Nevada County between the City of Nevada City and the Town of Truckee along Highway 20 and north of Interstate 80.
~ Nevada County enews
Building Decarbonization Pilot Program
TRUCKEE
The Climate Transformation Alliance is launching a new program to address building electrification in the region, called the Truckee Tahoe Building Decarbonization Pilot Program. Sierra Business Council, the nonprofit facilitator of the CTA, will be responsible for implementing this program, which is funded through a $500,000 award from a private donor. Over the next two years, the program will support the shared goal of achieving a carbon-free community for Truckee and North Lake Tahoe.
The pilot program includes several design components to advance regional building decarbonization efforts. It will bring building electrification workforce education and training programming to the region, provide scholarships for contractors to participate in training programs, launch a website resource, develop an outreach campaign surrounding the benefits of building decarbonization, and introduce a one-stop shop coaching service for home and building owners looking to electrify. This program will leverage expertise from experts in the field and foster collaboration between key stakeholders.
“One of the cornerstones of the pilot program will be equipping the local workforce with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead in the decarbonization effort,” says Sierra Business Council’s Climate & Energy Program manager, Meredith Anderson. “SBC will partner with local contractors, educational institutions, and training centers in order to bring programming to our region. Additionally, the program will offer scholarships for existing and aspiring contractors to receive electrification training. Through these targeted programs, SBC and CTA aim to empower the workforce with the expertise needed to drive this transition.”
The main goals of this program are to upskill the local workforce and to begin electrifying buildings. Other project benefits that will contribute to program success include developing the project specifications necessary for this climate zone and collecting various data metrics, such as average energy savings, financial feasibility, and overall effectiveness across different building types.
~ SBC press release
Nevada County to Release Election Documents
NEVADA COUNTY
The Nevada County Superior Court issued a final ruling in Young v. Diaz, a public records act case concerning election records from the 2020 Presidential election. The court ordered the Clerk-Recorder’s Office to provide Young with election records she had requested, including over 26,000 pages that will require significant redaction of sensitive information in order not to compromise election security and voter privacy.
Prior to the ruling, there was no court precedent concerning the records at issue, nor were there laws that provided clear direction. Following Young’s original requests in 2021 and 2022, the clerk-recorder’s office consulted with the Secretary of State, California’s top election official. All elections officials, including those in Nevada County, are obliged to follow the Secretary of State’s direction. Here, the Secretary of State informed the Clerk-Recorder’s Office, in writing, that providing some of the records at issue “could potentially present a security risk and should not be made public.” The Secretary of State also filed a declaration with the court reiterating its position that “these records must remain sealed and protected from disclosure.”
The Clerk-Recorder’s Office, in consultation with county counsel, followed the Secretary of State’s advice.
Contrary to that advice, the Superior Court has now concluded that the Clerk-Recorder’s Office can provide two of the requested records without violating the law or compromising election security.
Natalie Adona, the county clerk-recorder, does not intend to appeal the court’s decision.
“If a record in the Clerk-Recorder’s Office can be lawfully provided to the public, it will be made available. The Clerk-Recorder’s Office is grateful for the clarity provided by the court and will comply with its ruling,” Adona said.
~ Nevada County press release
BioBlitz at Sagehen Creek Field Station
TRUCKEE
If you love plants, bugs, and other animals and have a sense of exploration and a thirst for discovery, participating in a bioblitz is the perfect opportunity for you. A bioblitz is a one-day event where participants explore a specific area to search for and count unique species of plants, animals, bugs, and birds. The Tahoe Institute for Natural Science is hosting this year’s Truckee-area BioBlitz at the Sagehen Creek Field Station on July 9.
What makes the BioBlitz at Sagehen so unique is the diversity of species and the opportunity to discover organisms that aren’t often found elsewhere. Due to Sagehen’s status as a protected research site part of the UC Reserve System, there are forests, meadows, and riparian habitat, along with a number of fens, all of which support a unique diversity of plant and animal life. Species that participants may get to see include mountain birds at the peak of their breeding season, dozens of flowering plants in full bloom, colorful butterflies and jumping spiders, parasitoid wasps, two species of carnivorous sundew plants, and the primitive Black Petaltail dragonfly, each with a fascinating life history to learn about. For example, the larvae of the petaltails are not fully aquatic like other dragonflies, but instead tunnel into the moss at spring-fed mountain bogs and fens (making Sagehen the perfect place to encounter this unusual insect).
There will be naturalists, scientists, and other experts on hand to lead groups of five to 10 participants as they search and record the biodiversity they observe. The main event will be on the morning of Sunday, July 9, starting at 8 a.m. Participants will head out into the field and make observations until noon, at which point everybody will reconvene at the field station for lunch and a quick taxonomic tally. An optional afternoon session will be available to those who want to spend the full day exploring and counting the amazing variety of species at Sagehen.
For more detailed information and to register, visit tinsweb.org.
~ TINS press release
Archie: The Spunky Rescue Dog Overcoming Fainting Goat Syndrome
INCLINE VILLAGE
Meet Archie, a lovable rescue dog who has captured the hearts of many with his unique condition called myotonia congenita. Just like fainting goats, Archie experiences episodes of temporary muscle stiffness and immobility. Despite the challenges posed by his rare condition, Archie’s unwavering spirit and the dedication of the medical team at Pet Network Humane Society are helping him lead a fulfilling life, inspiring others along the way.
Soon after arriving at Pet Network, Archie began displaying unusual symptoms. During moments of excitement or stress, his muscles would tense up, causing temporary stiffness and limited mobility. After exploring a range of diagnoses, the Pet Network medical team diagnosed him with myotonia congenita, a condition commonly associated with fainting goats.
Myotonia congenita is a rare genetic disorder that affects the function of chloride channels in the muscles. This disruption leads to episodes of muscle stiffness, often triggered by sudden movements or stimulation. While the condition itself does not cause pain, it can be disorienting and initially alarming.
Archie’s condition initially presented challenges for his caregivers at the shelter, who had to learn how to support him during his episodes. They quickly realized that by providing a calm and safe environment, they could help Archie reduce the frequency and intensity of these episodes.
Despite the challenges presented by myotonia congenita, Archie has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. Through consistent love and care, he has learned to navigate his condition and live life to the fullest. His caregivers have created an environment that fosters his well-being, ensuring that he feels safe and secure at all times.
Archie’s journey has touched the hearts of many, and his story has helped raise awareness about myotonia congenita. By sharing his experiences, the team at Pet Network has provided invaluable knowledge to others who may be dealing with similar circumstances, while also highlighting the importance of adopting and rescuing animals in need.
Archie, the remarkable rescue dog with myotonia congenita, has touched the hearts of many with his unwavering spirit and determination. Through the love and dedication of the Pet Network team, he has overcome the challenges posed by his condition, inspiring others to approach life’s obstacles with resilience and compassion. Archie’s story is a reminder that every life, regardless of its challenges, is deserving of love, care, and the opportunity to thrive.
Today, Archie is available for adoption and is in search of a very special home to help manage his condition. Archie would thrive in a calm and steady home with limited stress. To learn more about adopting Archie, visit petnetwork.org/find-dog.
~ Pet Network Humane Society press release
Moving In, Moving On, Moving Up
Fire Chief Announces Retirement
OLYMPIC VALLEY
Fire Chief Allen Riley will retire from the Olympic Valley Fire Department this month, concluding a remarkable 30-year career dedicated to the safety and well-being of our community.
Chief Riley joined the Olympic Valley community as a volunteer in 1993 and steadily progressed through the ranks, eventually assuming the role of the department’s fifth fire chief in its 63-year history. From his early days as a passionate firefighter, Chief Riley demonstrated an innate ability to inspire and a deep dedication to public safety. Throughout his tenure, he implemented initiatives to enhance the department’s efficiency and effectiveness, embracing technological advancements and modern firefighting techniques to equip our firefighters with the best resources available.
Leading the department through a challenging financial period, Chief Riley navigated with composure and balance, addressing pension debt and responsibly managing the budgetary reins. His composed temperament proved invaluable to the district as spending initiatives, wages, and benefits were consistently evaluated.
Mike Geary, general manager of the Olympic Valley Public Service District, praised Chief Riley’s experience, leadership qualities, integrity, education, work ethic, communication, and dedication, noting that his efforts propelled the OVFD to become one of the best fire departments in Tahoe. Chief Riley fostered relationships within the organization, the community, and partner agencies, leaving a lasting impact on the service levels provided to residents, businesses, and visitors.
While Chief Allen Riley’s retirement leaves a void in our fire department and community, his contributions will continue to shape our future. The Firewise Community and Fuels Management Program are testaments to his foresight, leadership, and unwavering dedication to public safety. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Chief Riley for his exceptional service and wish him a fulfilling retirement. The positive impact he has made on our community will be cherished and carried forward by future generations. Chief Riley will be replaced by the department’s new fire chief, Brad Chisholm.
~ Olympic Valley Public Service District press release
Board of Supervisors Appoint New Chief Administrative Officer
EL DORADO COUNTY
The board of supervisors unanimously appointed Tiffany Schmid to permanently fill the position of chief administrative officer. Schmid has been acting and interim CAO for three months. She will be responsible for the county’s budget and its overall operations.
“The Board of Supervisors is unanimous in their support of Tiffany Schmid, and we are delighted to appoint her as our new Chief Administrative Officer,” said Board chair, Wendy Thomas. “Tiffany brings a wealth of experience and integrity to this role, and she is deeply committed to ensuring an unparalleled quality of life for the residents of El Dorado County through a valued workforce that finds satisfaction and meaning in that service. Having lived in El Dorado County almost her entire life, Tiffany brings a unique and important level of understanding to this position. She is the right person at the right time to lead our county forward and this board looks forward to her leadership.”
Schmid was appointed El Dorado County’s Interim CAO by the Board of Supervisors March 25 after having held the position of assistant chief administrative officer since November 2021.
Tiffany began her career in El Dorado County in 2014 serving as principal planner in the Community Development Agency and was promoted to principal management analyst in the Chief Administrative Office in 2016. She was appointed by the board of supervisors as the director of the planning and building department in 2018 where she served until returning to the Chief Administrative Office in 2021.
Prior to coming to El Dorado County, Tiffany worked for 10 years as a planner with the State of California for the Department of Water Resources and the Department of General Services.
Tiffany received an M.A. in Anthropology from California State University, Sacramento, and a B.A. in Psychology, graduating Magna Cum Laude, from California State University.
~ El Dorado County press release
Chamber of Commerce Strengthens Leadership with Three New Board Members
TRUCKEE
The Truckee Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the appointment of three exceptional individuals to its board of directors starting July 1. These new board members bring a wealth of experience and a passion for driving economic growth and prosperity in the Truckee community.
The newly appointed members are as follows:
Amber Burke is a passionate and community-driven professional currently serving as the coordinator of district communications and parent engagement for the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District. With a background in marketing, communications, media buying, and event planning, she brings expertise and enthusiasm to her new role as a board member for the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. Having been a resident of the North Tahoe/Truckee community for over 21 years, Amber’s commitment to seeing Truckee thrive is deeply rooted. She recognizes the vital role the chamber plays in providing essential support and opportunities for local businesses. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring Tahoe through hiking, skiing, and being at the lake with her husband and 3rd-grade daughter.
Katie Shaffer is CEO and founder of East River PR & Marketing. Prior to starting her own business, Katie worked for a magazine in New York City and a textbook publisher in the Bay Area. She also directed a scholarly book publisher’s marketing department, worked as a journalist and columnist for Swift News, and as a director with Switchback PR + Marketing. Katie shines in the fast-paced agency world of constant deadlines and creative brainstorming. She is well-connected and has an inherent interest in economic development due to her outreach work moving the needle on public sentiment and executing actionable solutions with key stakeholders in Washoe, El Dorado, Placer, Nevada, and Sierra counties. She currently chairs the CATT marketing committee and recently spun off from the Truckee Community Cares board after a 15-year stint, two as board president. Additionally, she founded and runs the micro outlet sierraville.org. Katie is proud of the talent she has attracted to her firm and to be providing 14 professional jobs in Truckee. She has lived and/or worked in Truckee for the past 42 years. Born and raised in New Jersey, Katie earned a B.A. in English from Ohio Wesleyan University and studied information sciences as part of a Denver University Master’s program. She is currently building a 10th home with her tireless husband. In her spare time, she enjoys Wordle and outings with family, friends, and her dog.
Jon Slaughter, executive director of marketing, Sugar Bowl Resort, is the proud dad of two amazing kids, Riley and Davis. They are 8-year-old twins headed into the 3rd grade. They, like Dad, have found a passion for snowsports, whether skiing, sledding, or building a snowman. Jon first moved to Truckee for his college internship at Northstar during the 2004/2005 winter. After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, he worked at Boreal for 8 years as the director of marketing, proudly launching Woodward Tahoe. An opportunity in Park City, Utah, took him away from Truckee for three years, but he longed to be back “home” and promptly moved back when the role of executive director of marketing opened up at Sugar Bowl in 2016. Sugar Bowl was always Jon’s home mountain and where he snowboarded anytime he could, so he jumped at the opportunity.
These new board members will work collaboratively with existing directors and chamber staff to develop and implement programs that promote local businesses, work towards community connection, and ensure the long-term prosperity of Truckee. Their expertise and vision will contribute to the chamber’s ongoing efforts to support economic growth, foster entrepreneurship, and advocate for the needs of the business community.
The Truckee Chamber of Commerce is grateful to its outgoing board members, Emily Vitas and Chris Fajkos, for their valuable contributions and looks forward to the fresh perspectives and insights that the new appointees will bring.
For more information about the Truckee Chamber of Commerce please visit truckeechamber.com.
~ Truckee Chamber of Commerce press release
Business Briefs
New Snow Museum at the Boatworks
TAHOE CITY
While the world waits for the Snow Museum Foundation to build its permanent facility in the Placer County Park at the entrance to Olympic Valley, locals and visitors can get their ski-history fix at the Boatworks Mall in Tahoe City, where 150 years of Sierra ski history, including the epic saga of the 1960 Winter Olympics, come alive in a captivating museum experience.
The Snow Sports Museum at the Boatworks displays artifacts from the Auburn Ski Club’s Western Ski-sport Museum on Donner Summit and from private collections, including Granite Bay surgeon Stan and Maryann Batiste’s collection of rare 1960 Winter Olympics artifacts and David Antonucci’s exhibits from the Olympic cross-country ski venue on Tahoe’s West Shore.
The 1,820 square feet of museum space upstairs in the Boatworks is an ideal opportunity for the future SNOW Museum to showcase the pioneering spirit that inspired the development of skiing in the Sierra — from longboards to Olympics to our present and future champions and heroes. A special section dedicated to the museum’s “Olympic Ambassadors” and to the Lake Tahoe Ski Club’s history of support of our local athletes is inspiring.
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit thesnowmuseum.org.
~ Eddy Ancinas, special to Moonshine Ink
NV Energy Request to Provide Cost Relief to Customers Approved
NEVADA
The Public Utilities Commission of Nevada approved a request from NV Energy to reduce energy costs for customers starting July 1. The reduction will vary between approximately 5% and 16% for July, August, and September, depending on a customer’s location and type of electric service they receive. Customers will see the reduction on their July bills.
“We are glad to be able to step in and deliver a solution for our customers, who have been impacted by the higher purchasing power and natural gas prices. We know that energy bills are at their peak during the summer due to high electricity usage, and this proposal helps reduce the costs when customers need it the most,” said Doug Cannon, NV Energy President and CEO. “Along with continuing the reliable service our customers count on, we’re investing in ways to make energy more affordable.”
In Northern Nevada, the average single-family residential customer using 1,100 kilowatt hours of energy — the average for July 2022 — will save approximately $20 per month over the months of July, August, and September. Overall electric bills may be higher this summer than last summer because of higher fuel costs previously experienced.
NV Energy files quarterly rate adjustments based on the actual fuel and purchased power costs paid by the company in the previous 12 months. Those costs are a pass-through cost, meaning that customers pay the same price that NV Energy pays, and the company does not mark up costs on purchased power and natural gas purchases.
In 2022, the price NV Energy paid for natural gas consistently increased by more than 70%, peaking in January 2023. Provided natural gas prices remain stable, the cost increase customers are currently experiencing is expected to decrease over the next year as the high 2022 natural gas costs roll off and NV Energy experiences lower natural gas prices in the future.
~ NV Energy press release
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