News Briefs
PUD Faces Litigation From Current, Former Staff Members
TRUCKEE
The Truckee Donner Public Utility District is facing litigation from three women — one current and two former staff members. Each of the complaints highlight negative interactions with PUD’s chief financial officer, Michael Salmon. In turn, the PUD conducted third-party investigations that found no basis for the claims. To date, discussions of the litigation remain in closed session during board meetings.
Shanna Kuhlemier, former district clerk and executive assistant until July 2024, served the PUD with her complaint on Oct. 26. She alleges retaliation and discrimination among other grievances. The full text is available here.
Regina Cooley worked in multiple positions at the PUD, the last as contract administrator, until April 2024. “The grounds for our claim include unlawful discrimination, harassment, retaliation and wrongful termination, denial of reasonable accommodations and engagement in the interactive process, and gender violence,” she wrote in an email to Moonshine Ink.
Anabel Sanchez currently works as a customer service representative. Sanchez declined to speak about her litigation, mention of which first appeared in the Nov. 6 board meeting agenda as a closed session item.
Citing pending litigation among other reasons, General Manager Brian Wright declined to answer several questions from Moonshine Ink but did confirm the district engaged with investigations in response to claims submitted to the PUD’s human resources department.
“Each of these investigative law firms are reputable, highly qualified, women-owned and -managed firms specializing in employment claims,” Wright stated in an email. “I cannot speak to the specific details or nature of the claims and/or the personnel participating in the investigations. However, we can acknowledge that at the conclusion of each of these exhaustive investigations, the investigative firms found the evidence did not support any of the claims.”
Kuhlemier’s complaint confirms such an investigation was conducted by Shaw Law Group in 2023, related to Salmon. “The investigation failed to make a determination of whether Mr. Salmon’s behavior was related to gender discrimination/sexual harassment because Kuhlemier had not utilized the terminology or words that Mr. Salmon’s conduct may have been motivated by gender animosity but did conclude that his conduct more likely than not made Kuhlemier uncomfortable,” per litigation text.
A second investigation was conducted by HR Law Consultants regarding Salmon earlier this year.
As of publication, Salmon, who joined the PUD in 2020 after working for the Tahoe Donner Association, leads the vote count for Truckee Sanitary District director.
Another former female PUD staff member shared her experience working under Salmon, saying she did not have anything bad to say. “He may have come across as being a little uncaring about your personal life,” she said, “but I think that was just his personality type.”
Kuhlemier figured prominently in Moonshine Ink reporting on the PUD’s culture in May 2021 (Short Circuit at the PUD).
~ AH
Lead-Sheathed Telecommunication Cables Successfully Removed from Lake Tahoe
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
For 3 weeks, AT&T and the League to Save Lake Tahoe worked to remove about 8 miles of lead-sheathed telecommunication cables from below Lake Tahoe’s high-water mark. The removal was completed on Nov 21.
This accomplishment for the lake’s preservation is the culmination of a multi-year effort. The league served as both environmental watchdog and partner to AT&T in the removal process. According to the league’s director, Laura Patten, the cables were installed by Sierra Pacific Power, now known as NV Energy, in the 1920s and are no longer used.
The cable removal project was conducted by AT&T’s specialty marine services contractor, J.F. Brennan Company. Additionally, a professional team of consultants, including divers, biologists, and archaeologists, helped ensure the cables were removed from the lake bottom without disturbing water quality, aquatic life, or Tahoe’s natural setting.
A segment of cable remains near Baldwin Beach due to its proximity to a sensitive habitat for the Tahoe Yellow Cress. Local agencies asked to pause the project while they conduct a plant survey. The removed cables are being transported out of the Tahoe Basin to be recycled.
A number of organizations contributed to the effort. The cables were first brought to the league’s attention by the environmental nonprofit Below the Blue. The two organizations worked together to map the extent of the cables in Lake Tahoe. The league coordinated with local, state, and federal agencies to help secure permits and approvals for the cable removal. Read Moonshine Ink’s reporting on AT&T’s pausing of cable removal earlier this year.
~ MR
Board Holds Firm on Inspection Deadline for North Lake Tahoe’s Short-Term Rentals
KINGS BEACH
The Placer County Board of Supervisors has advanced two amendments to the county’s short-term vacation rental ordinance.
The board also declined to extend the Nov. 30 deadline for current and prospective STR homeowners to pass defensible space inspections to retain their permits or obtain a new one.
The board is scheduled to consider the changes for final approval Dec. 3, which would then take effect 30 days later. The amendments include expanding rules for multiple STRs on a single property and requiring each STR to rent at least 30 nights per year once the region hits the STR maximum permit cap, which is currently set for 3,900. Homeowners would need to become compliant with the 30-night minimum within 1 year of the county hitting the available permit cap. Owner-occupied STRs are exempt from this requirement.
The decision will affect those operating multiple STRs on a single property. If the board adopts the changes in December, property owners wanting to rent more than one unit must:
- Apply for individual STR permits for each unit;
- Have held STR permits prior to March 31;
- Be in good standing as defined in county code section 9.42.040(B)(6);
- Demonstrate proof of short-term renting of all participating STRs between Jan. 1, 2020 (effective date of the first STR ordinance), and March 10, 2022 (effective date of the comprehensive update to the STR ordinance)
Following extensive discussion, the board also declined to extend the Nov. 30 deadline for STR permit holders to pass defensible space inspections to continue renting under their permit. All STR homeowners will be required to possess a passing defensible space inspection by Nov. 30 or face the possibility of permit suspension. As of Nov. 18, at least 490 STR properties in the North Lake Tahoe region have not received a passing inspection.
Learn more about the short-term rental program by clicking here.
~ Placer County press release
Aquatic Invasive Species Program Reviews 2024 Boating Season
LAKE TAHOE
The agencies leading the Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) program are tallying up the 2024 watercraft inspection season and taking stock of the growing threat of AIS in the Tahoe Region.
The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and the Tahoe Resource Conservation District (Tahoe RCD), which manage the watercraft inspection program, reported that staff intercepted 59 vessels with AIS on board. Though this is an increase from the 46 vessels found with AIS in 2023, it is nowhere near the record of 129 vessels in 2021. Boaters, paddlers, anglers, and beachgoers all help lower the risk of AIS by following the Clean, Drain, and Dry protocol.
Inspectors are kept informed of regional high-risk waterbodies and trained to screen for all non-native species, including invasive golden mussels that were detected in the Bay-Delta near Stockton in October.
The discovery of invasive New Zealand mudsnails on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe in 2023 prompted TRPA and Tahoe RCD to enact a rapid response plan to contain the new invasives and keep them from spreading. New procedures at boat ramps require boaters to drain water, remove vegetation, examine anchors, and line upon exit from Lake Tahoe.
Non-motorized recreators can also become certified as Tahoe Keepers to Clean, Drain, and Dry their own gear. Additionally, innovative waterless cleaning stations called CD3 machines were positioned at popular beaches and available for free use.
For more information, visit tahoeboatinspections.com.
~ Lake Tahoe Invasive Species Program news release
White Pelican Rescue
TRUCKEE
The rescue of a stranded white pelican was successfully executed on a cold November day in Truckee. Volunteers battled thick ice, a strong, elusive target, and uncertainty in trying to save an American White Pelican.
Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS) executive director and co-founder Will Richardson noted that the pelican had been stuck in one of the Teichert ponds, located east of Donner Lake in Truckee’s Coldstream Canyon, since July. He had been dubbed “Whitey” by local birders. It became clear that Whitey was unable to fly, and regular visitors to the ponds grew concerned as winter encroached and the pond water began to ice over. One of those regular visitors was Brooke Bishop, who reached out to Richardson hoping TINS could help coordinate a rescue.
TINS mobilized volunteers for the rescue mission, dubbed Operation Whitey Rescue.
Whitey was spotted on a small island surrounded by ice covering the entire surface of the pond. A small armada of kayakers broke through the ice, herded the pelican towards a pinch point between the shore and an island, carefully scooped him up, and brought him to shore. Chris Smith, a lecturer at University of Nevada, Reno, who has experience capturing eagles, condors and other large birds, “deserves credit for the perfect catch,” according to Richardson.
Once safely and securely contained, Bishop and her husband drove the bird to the International Bird Rescue wildlife clinic in Fairfield, California.
To support TINS and learn more, visit tinsweb.org.
~ TINS press release
Town Releases Request for Interest for River Revitalization Catalyst Projects
TRUCKEE
The Town of Truckee’s River Revitalization Steering Committee (R2SC) is calling for applications from property owners who want to redevelop and revitalize their property. This initiative is aimed at developing three catalyst sites along East and West River Street, including River Park Place. The goal is for these sites to serve as pilot projects for other Truckee River corridor property owners to possibly follow suit.
The Request for Interest (RFI) process has been designed to be straightforward and accessible. Property owners must complete and submit a simple Catalyst Project Interest Form. No site plans or detailed project concepts are required. Even property owners without a specific vision are encouraged to apply.
To be eligible, the parcels must currently be used as commercial, mixed use, industrial, manufacturing, vacant properties, uninhabitable residential properties, or other uses such as outdoor storage yards.
The town is looking for catalyst projects that will be achievable within 1 to 5 years. The town is offering several initiatives to help expedite the process:
- No Cost Involvement: The projects will include town staff and town-hired design and economic consultant time at no cost.
- Collaborative Innovation: The town’s goal is to foster collaboration and innovation.
- Tailored Plans: The town and R2SC will work with each selected property owner toward developing a focused revitalization plan.
- Identifying Barriers: Together, the town and applicants will identify barriers to implementation and strategize potential solutions to overcome them.
The application deadline is Dec. 20. To fill out an application or learn more, visit townoftruckee.gov/river.
~ Town of Truckee press release
Tahoe Fund Issues Call For 2025 Projects
TAHOE CITY
The Tahoe Fund announced the opening of its annual call for projects. The nonprofit is seeking projects for its 2025 portfolio that will increase the pace and scale of forest restoration, improve lake clarity and health, encourage sustainable recreation, provide innovative solutions to transportation challenges, and create more stewards of Lake Tahoe.
Public agencies, nonprofits, and environmentally focused businesses are invited to submit proposals for projects that require $5,000 to $1,000,000 in funding. Projects with the ability to leverage public funding as a result of Tahoe Fund support will be prioritized.
Since its inception, the Tahoe Fund has worked with more than 50 partners to support over 160 projects in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Some highlights include introducing innovation to forest health treatments through the Truckee-Tahoe BurnBot pilot, transforming the Upper Truckee River Watershed with the Motel 6 acquisition, and commissioning a comprehensive parking enforcement study aiming to make parking easier and safer for everyone in Tahoe.
All submissions will be reviewed by the Tahoe Fund Board of Directors. Projects submitted for consideration may receive immediate funding or be selected for a Tahoe Fund project campaign in 2025.
Project submissions are due by Jan. 31, 2025. Guidelines and the request for project submission form can be found here.
~ Tahoe Fund press release
Moving In, Moving Up, Moving On
Ski California Welcomes New Leadership
PETALUMA, CALIFORNIA
The Ski California Board of Directors announced the appointment of John Rice, a ski industry veteran with 47 years of experience, as the association’s new president. Rice, who has served as vice president and general manager of Sierra-at-Tahoe since 1993, succeeds Mike Reitzell, now president and CEO of the National Ski Areas Association.
The board also appointed Kristin Bohm, a seasoned attorney specializing in ski industry defense, as special counsel to Ski California. Bohm’s deep legal expertise and nuanced understanding of the challenges facing ski resorts will play a pivotal role in supporting the association’s strategies and initiatives.
As the president of Ski California, Rice will serve as the primary leader and representative of the ski industry in California and Nevada. He will oversee the organization’s advocacy efforts, spearhead safety initiatives, develop industry education, drive innovation, and maintain fiscal responsibility. Rice will also be responsible for cultivating key relationships with government agencies, legislators, and industry partners while ensuring that Ski California continues to thrive and grow in alignment with its long-term strategic vision and mission. He will work in close collaboration with the board of directors and actively support the organization’s member resorts, from global companies to independent resorts, community-based areas, and nonprofit organizations.
Rice’s official start date will be determined based on the transition needed to bring in a new leader at Sierra-at-Tahoe. He will continue to lead Sierra-at-Tahoe until a successor is identified.
Learn more about Ski California at skicalifornia.org.
~ Ski California press release
Business Briefs
Thanksgiving Travel Hits a 17 Year High at Reno-Tahoe International Airport
RENO
With the highest number of scheduled seats in 17 years, the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is preparing for a record-breaking Thanksgiving travel season. A 12% increase in scheduled seats compared to last year and an estimated 15% rise in total passengers highlights the importance of planning ahead.
The busiest travel days are expected to be Nov. 22, 26, 27, and Dec. 1. The airport urges travelers to arrive early, consider alternative transportation and be prepared for limited parking availability during this period.
The surge in travelers means RNO’s close and convenient parking lots will reach capacity during peak travel days.
Here are some tips to make holiday travel smoother:
- Plan additional time to find parking, especially if overflow lots are being used.
- Check the airport’s real-time parking updates before leaving home.
- Arrange a ride with a friend or rideshare service.
- Drop passengers and luggage at the curb before parking in an overflow lot.
RNO is offering a holiday bonus for pick-up drivers with the return of the “Wait & Win” Giveaway. The giveaway runs from Nov. 14 to Dec. 31. Passengers are reminded to allow about 20 minutes for travelers to deplane, collect baggage and make their way to the curb.
For more information, visit renoairport.com.
~ Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority press release
Kids Ski Free Week
OLYMPIC VALLEY
Families across California can celebrate the start of the winter season with a special opportunity for young skiers and riders to hit the slopes for free. From Dec. 7 to 13, kids will receive up to seven free lift tickets during Alterra Mountain Company’s Kids Ski Free Week at participating resorts, including Palisades Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, Big Bear Mountain Resort, and Snow Valley.
Designed to encourage families to share in the joy of winter sports, Kids Ski Free Week offers a free daily lift ticket for kids 12 and under to use at Alterra-owned resorts. Families can also look forward to unique offers, packages, and activities to make the experience even more memorable.
To redeem this offer, families can visit each resort’s official website or stop by Guest Services at any participating California Alterra resort. No other purchase is necessary, rentals and lessons are not included.
For more details on Kids Ski Free Week, visit the official websites of Palisades Tahoe.
~ Alterra Mountain Company press release
NV Energy Completes Upgrades, Fire Mitigation Work in Basin
LAKE TAHOE
NV Energy’s Natural Disaster Protection Program, also known as Power Safe NV, successfully completed essential system upgrades and fire mitigation operations in the Lake Tahoe Basin to strengthen the electrical system against natural disasters. These operations, which required the extensive use of helicopters and heavy machinery, did cause some disruptions to residents and visitors. However, they were essential for enhancing the safety and reliability of the system.
The grid resiliency team rebuilt 3.2 miles of line along State Route 28. This project included replacing aging poles and bare copper wire with new poles wrapped in protective fire mesh and covered conductor wire. These upgrades are designed to enhance reliability and reduce the risk of ignitions from utility equipment. The team successfully replaced 75 poles and installed 3.2 miles of covered conductor wire.
Additionally, the vegetation management team carried out essential hazard tree and brush removal along several sections of line around the lake.
The project was completed ahead of schedule and without any safety incidents. This work is vital for improving reliability and reducing fire risks.
~ NV Energy press release
