News Briefs
Second Annual Fall Fest on Oct. 17
INCLINE VILLAGE
Fall in Tahoe is a time to get outside, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the season before the snow starts to fly. The second annual Fall Fest returns to the Village Center on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 12 to 3 p.m., bringing together local families, friends, and neighbors for an afternoon of live music, great food, fall activities, and community fun.
Hosted by the Incline Village Crystal Bay Community & Business Association (IVCBA), Village Center merchants, and Tahoe’s Connection for Families, Fall Fest is a free community celebration with something for everyone.
Live music, local food, beer, and wine tasting will make it an easy afternoon to meet up with friends, catch up with neighbors, and enjoy a fall day in Incline. Local businesses and community organizations will also be joining in with booths, activities, and more throughout the event.
For local families, the Tahoe’s Connection for Families Carnival will be a centerpiece of the afternoon with games and activities for kids. Families can also stop by the Grocery Outlet Pumpkin Patch and Pumpkin Decorating, build a scarecrow at Sierra Verde, and enjoy fall activities throughout the Village Center.
Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.
For more information, visit IVCBA Fall Fest.
~ IVCBA press release
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Placer County Extends Bulk Cardboard Recycling Program Through Winter Months
KINGS BEACH
Free bulk cardboard recycling will continue to be offered through the winter months and into 2027 following an extension of the Eastern Placer Responsible Refuse Program in Kings Beach.
Placer County initially launched the recycling service on July 7 as a summer pilot to provide residents and visitors with a convenient option for recycling large amounts of cardboard at a convenient location. The popularity of this community stewardship initiative, paired with the community’s exceptional compliance to the posted rules, swayed the county to extend the program.
The county has also worked to expand snowplow operations at the site to help ensure the recycling bin remains accessible during winter weather and can continue serving the community throughout the snowy months.
“We’re happy to see this program’s success and popularity, and we’re glad to continue it,” said Placer County District 5 Supervisor Cindy Gustafson. “We even had to add an extra collection date because the bin filled up so fast. This is a testament to county government listening to our community and working behind the scenes to make progress. We’re also looking at potential locations for an additional recycling site in the Tahoe City area, and better serve our West Shore communities.”
The free cardboard recycling bin will continue to be located on the Placer County-owned lot at the intersection of North Lake Boulevard and Fox Street in Kings Beach. The bin is available seven days a week, except for a brief period on Mondays and Fridays to allow for servicing by Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal.
To help keep the program operating smoothly, only clean cardboard is accepted. All cardboard must be broken down, flattened, and free of food waste, liquids or other contaminants. No other recyclable materials or trash may be placed in the bin.
Placer County has partnered with Clean Tahoe to monitor the site to ensure the bin remains clean and available for everyone. All other recyclable materials should continue to be placed inside trash bins and recycled through Placer’s One Big Bin program. Green waste should continue to be taken to the Materials Recycling Facility located at 900 Cabin Creek Rd.
Residents are invited to share their thoughts about this new program on the county’s Engage Placer platform: engage.placer.ca.gov/eastern-placer-responsible-refuse.
For more information about local solid waste and recycling programs, visit Waste101 at: waste101.com/ or Tahoe One Big Bin at: tahoeonebigbin.com.
To report illegal dumping in North Lake Tahoe, contact Clean Tahoe at (530) 544-4210 or email info@clean-tahoe.org.
~ Placer County press release
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Community Embraces Insurance Affordability and Community Resilience Events
TRUCKEE
There was a strong response from the Truckee community at events designed to make it easier for homeowners to explore affordable insurance alternatives and get DIY wildfire resilience solutions for their homes. In September, Delos Insurance Solutions, a California-based, science-driven insurance provider, teamed up with the Truckee Fire Protection District, Truckee Mountain Hardware and Sports, Tahoe Donner Association, and Sierra Business Council to provide three different opportunities for Truckee residents struggling with insurance accessibility.
Hundreds of thousands of homeowners are struggling to find accessible, affordable insurance, with nearly 700,000 still relying on the California FAIR Plan (June 2026). Delos’ mission is to expand access to insurance options for homeowners and support wildfire resilience measures.
“The Town of Truckee has been on the leading edge of wildfire resilience, scaling community fuel reduction and resilience planning. But despite their hard work, much of the community is stuck on the FAIR plan,” said Jessica Morse, former Deputy Secretary at the California Natural Resources Agency and Delos consultant. “Delos Insurance organized a community event at Mountain Hardware in Truckee for people to just walk up and talk to an agent about insurance options beyond the FAIR plan. They also received pro tips, coupons, and were able to pick up supplies to fire-harden their homes. We just want people to know they don’t have to figure it all out on their own.”
Delos CEO Kevin Stein presented Mayor Anna Klovstad and employees of Truckee Fire’s Wildfire Prevention Division with a Recognition of Insurance Accessibility Award for the community’s work to increase wildfire resilience.
Delos participated in two additional local community events to engage residents in discussions around insurance options. Delos and local insurance brokers joined Sierra Business Council at the Truckee Block Party to answer locals’ questions about insurance and, in particular, what may be available beyond the FAIR plan.
The Tahoe Donner Association invited Delos to discuss insurance accessibility at an exclusive event for its 24,000 members. Former California Insurance Commissioner and local resident Dave Jones spoke at the event and local insurance brokers were there to answer questions and provide insurance options.
The events in Truckee were part of a proactive campaign with further events planned for other communities in the coming months. Homeowners looking to explore their insurance options should talk to their local broker or complete this information form, and an independent, local insurance broker will contact them.
~ Delos Insurance Solutions press release
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Hauntober Brings a Month of Fall Fun to Tahoe City, West Shore
TAHOE CITY
Tahoe City Downtown Association celebrates the fall season with Hauntober, a month of festive events, family activities, Halloween fun, business specials, and seasonal experiences throughout the community.
Hauntober brings together signature events and activities throughout October, giving locals and visitors plenty of reasons to explore Tahoe City, West Shore, and Alpine Meadows, support local businesses, and celebrate the season. Hauntober is presented by the TCDA and North Tahoe Chamber.
Hauntober highlights include:
- Scarecrows on Parade: Downtown Tahoe City, with community voting open Oct. 6 to 21.
- Skeleton Scavenger Hunt: Open Oct. 9 to 31, inviting participants to explore Tahoe City while searching for skeletons throughout the community for a chance to win prizes.
- Harvest Festival & Big Truck Day: Oct. 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tahoe Community Center, featuring family-friendly fall activities and big trucks presented by the Tahoe City Public Utility District.
- Zombie Crawl: Oct. 23, bringing Halloween fun, costumes, food and drink specials, entertainment, and spooky surprises to participating Tahoe City businesses. A free event shuttle will be available from Olympic Valley and the West Shore.
- Haunted Historic Walking Tours: Oct. 24, 25, and 31, combining Tahoe City history with a haunting seasonal twist. Advance reservations are encouraged.
- Downtown Trick-or-Treating & Haunted Watson Cabin: Oct. 30, with local businesses welcoming families and young trick-or-treaters throughout downtown Tahoe City.
Throughout the month, visitors can also enjoy cornstalk displays, fall specials, sales and deals from local businesses, along with additional seasonal activities and family fun. Additional activities, participating businesses, and event details will continue to be announced throughout October.
For the latest Hauntober information, go to visittahoecity.org/hauntober26.
~ TCDA press release
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Last Call! Truckee Fire Urges Residents to Reserve Free Curbside Green Waste Pickup By Oct. 11
TRUCKEE
Wildfire risk does not end with summer. As conditions transition into fall, Truckee Fire Protection District is encouraging residents and property owners to complete wildfire-prevention work around their homes and take advantage of Measure T-funded assistance programs while they remain available.
Residents have until Oct. 11 to reserve free curbside green waste pickup through Truckee Fire’s seasonal program. The service helps residents remove branches, brush, and other vegetative debris that can contribute to wildfire spread around homes and throughout neighborhoods.
“Fall is an important window to remove combustible vegetation, address vulnerable areas around the home, and prepare for peak fire season,” said Eric Horntvedt, wildfire prevention manager for Truckee Fire Protection District.
In addition to curbside green waste pickup, Truckee Fire offers several Measure T-funded programs to help residents reduce wildfire risk and improve preparedness:
- Green waste removal: Reserve free curbside green waste pickup by Oct. 11 at truckeefire.org/greenwaste.
- Residents may also receive a 75% rebate for a 6-yard green waste dumpster from Tahoe Truckee Sierra Disposal.
- Defensible-space inspections: Schedule a free, customized property evaluation and receive an easy-to-follow to-do list for reducing wildfire risk around the home. Learn more or request an inspection at truckeefire.org/dspace.
- Home-hardening rebates: Receive 50% reimbursement, up to $2,000, for eligible upgrades that help reduce a home’s vulnerability to embers and wildfire. Eligible improvements include hardscaping within five feet of the home, replacing wood fences and gates with noncombustible options, and installing metal vent screens with openings of one-eighth inch or smaller. Details are available at truckeefire.org/hardenyourhome.
- Dead Tree Fund: Eligible owner-occupied, single-family primary residences may receive reimbursement for up to 50% of dead-tree removal costs, up to $2,000. A current defensible-space inspection must identify the eligible tree or trees. View program guidelines.
- Reflective address signs: Residents can receive one free reflective address sign per property at community events or during a defensible-space inspection.
For a full overview of Truckee Fire’s Measure T-funded wildfire-prevention programs and resources, visit truckeefire.org/wildfireprevention.
~ Truckee Fire press release
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Excellence in Education Foundation Celebrates 40 Years of Community Investment in Local Schools
TRUCKEE
This year, the Tahoe Truckee Excellence in Education Foundation proudly celebrates 40 years of investing in public education and strengthening learning opportunities for students throughout the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District.
Since 1986, the foundation has invested more than $6.8 million in local schools, funding classroom innovation, educational resources, district-wide initiatives, teacher recognition programs, and student scholarships that have benefited thousands of students and teachers across TTUSD.
The foundation was born from a community challenge. Following a California Supreme Court ruling on education funding and the passage of Proposition 13, local school funding was drastically reduced. In response, a group of concerned local citizens came together to ensure students continued to have access to meaningful educational opportunities. What began with approximately $30,000 in community-raised funds evolved into a long-term commitment to supporting local education.
Over the years, Excellence in Education expanded both its impact and its vision. The launch of Skiing for Schools, followed by Golfing for Schools, transformed local recreation into one of the foundation’s most recognizable ways to support local classrooms.
As education evolved, so did the foundation. By funding innovative classroom grants and investing in district-wide initiatives like the 1-to-1 Chromebook program, Excellence in Education has continued to meet the changing needs of TTUSD students and educators.
Today, Excellence in Education invests approximately $250,000 annually in grants, resources, and partnerships that reach more than 4,000 students across TTUSD’s 11 schools and 2 programs. This past school year alone, the foundation awarded 53 grants totaling more than $424,000, supporting everything from STEAM and the arts to outdoor education, literacy, student wellness, and career exploration.
The anniversary celebration will culminate this December with the foundation’s $40 for 40 giving campaign, inviting the community to honor 40 years of local impact while helping build the next 40.
To support its mission, visit exined.org.
~ Excellence in Education press release
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El Dorado County approves Fiscal Year 2026/27 Budget
PLACERVILLE
The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the adopted budget for Fiscal Year 2026/27, revising June’s recommended budget to include the final fund balances after the year-end books closed, department needs identified after the recommended budget was approved, and making adjustments due to state and federal budget impacts. The approved budget is $1.34 billion, only $221.3 million of which is discretionary. No services or programs were reduced in this budget.
“This budget is balanced, meets all board budget policy goals and statutory requirements, and sets aside $79 million for use in future years,” said Chief Administrative Officer Sue Phillips. “We are able to add almost $8 million to general fund reserves and designations, and an additional $3.6 million in contingency.”
The $79 million held in general fund reserves, designations, and contingency will allow the county in future years to make progress on the implementation of its compensation philosophy and strategic investments despite slow discretionary revenue growth.
“We are historically conservative in our mid-year assessment and recommended budget, anticipating as much change as possible that may impact our services and operating expenses,” Phillips added.
Development of the fiscally year 2027/28 budget will begin before 2026 comes to a close. For detailed information on the approved budget, click here: bit.ly/4AS2iHg.
~ El Dorado County press release
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Community Unites to Protect Truckee’s Land, Water, and Wild Spaces
TRUCKEE
A recent community fundraiser hosted by Tahoe Modern raised over $13,500 in support of efforts by the Truckee River Watershed Council (TRWC) and the Truckee Donner Land Trust (TDLT) to protect, restore, and enjoy natural spaces across the greater Truckee area.
The event showcased displays and brief presentations from each organization, offering community members the opportunity to engage directly with staff and explore specific restoration and preservation efforts.
“Decades of partnership between TRWC and the Truckee Donner Land Trust serve as a prime example of how local nonprofits can work together to benefit both our community and our landscape,” said Allison Bornstein, development director at TRWC. “We were honored to join forces with Tahoe Modern and supporters across the community to uplift the important work taking place across the watershed.”
In addition to convening and hosting supporters from throughout the community, Tahoe Modern contributed a $5,000 match of donations made throughout the evening’s event.
“At Tahoe Modern, our work has always been inspired by the landscape and the way we live here. Supporting TRWC and TDLT is a natural extension of that connection — helping care for the open spaces, trails, and watershed that make this place so special,” said Megan Bristol, founder and lead principal designer at Tahoe Modern. “We are proud to open our showroom, bring our community together, and support the important work these organizations are doing.”
Over the past 30-plus years, TRWC and TDLT have established themselves as two of the most impactful nonprofits within the area. They first collaborated in 2008, when the TDLT acquired nearly 900 acres in Perazzo Meadows and worked with TRWC to restore key meadow habitat.
Since then, the organizations have partnered on efforts to protect and restore Johnson Canyon, Lacey Meadows, Pole Creek, and many other areas across the watershed. They also work as collaborators on Truckee River Day projects and within the Donner Lake Interagency Partnership for Stewardship (DIPS).
~ TRWC, TDLT, Tahoe Modern press release
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Paystand Tenant Portal Now Available
TRUCKEE
The Truckee Tahoe Airport District has transitioned to Paystand, a new online payment system for airport tenants. The Paystand Tenant Portal makes it easy to view and pay invoices, access payment history, save payment methods, and manage AutoPay all in one convenient location.
Tenants are reminded that AutoPay settings from Xpress Bill Pay will not transfer and must be set up again through Paystand. ACH and bank-to-bank payments are available with no fee, while credit and debit card payments include a 3% processing fee.
Questions? Call (530) 587-4119, ext. 141.
~ TTAD enews
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Moving In, Moving On, Moving Up Briefs
Plumas Bank Expands Treasury Management Team with Guissell Delavega
RENO
Plumas Bank is pleased to announce the addition of Guissell Delavega as vice president, treasury management sales officer, serving business clients throughout Northern Nevada and Lake Tahoe.
Delavega brings more than 18 years of banking and financial services experience to the role, with expertise spanning commercial banking, treasury management, business development, lending, and relationship management. Throughout her career, she has focused on developing strategic client relationships, delivering customized financial solutions, and partnering with businesses to support their long-term success.
In her new position, Delavega will work closely with commercial clients to identify treasury management strategies that improve cash flow management, increase operational efficiency, and reduce fraud risk. By helping businesses streamline financial operations and strengthen controls, she serves as a key partner to support local companies as they grow and adapt.
Delavega is a Reno native and attended the University of Nevada, Reno, earning a bachelor’s degree in international business with a minor in economics as well as a degree in French linguistics and translation. She is fluent in English, Spanish, and French. Delavega also supports several professional and community organizations including serving on the finance committee for Girl Scouts of the Sierra Nevada and membership with Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Northern Nevada.
~ Plumas Bank press release
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Business Briefs
What’s New as Sierra-at-Tahoe Celebrates its 80th Anniversary Season
TWIN BRIDGES
Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort has announced several resort improvements, from a new mobile app to reforestation efforts, as it rings in its 80th winter season. This marks eight decades since brothers Ray and Floyd Barrett first spun lifts in 1946 at Sierra Ski Ranch, and the start of an exciting new chapter for the resort. Sierra has also unveiled its 80th anniversary logo which will be showcased throughout the season.
This winter, Sierra-at-Tahoe will host a series of 80th anniversary activations including a celebration around the resort’s original opening date, Dec. 21, a gallery of historical photos in Aspen Cafe, and anniversary merchandise in Sierra Mountain Sports. The resort will also be releasing a short film in the fall that will spotlight the resort’s history, longtime staff, season passholders, and its role in the South Lake Tahoe community.
“Eighty years ago, this mountain started as two brothers’ dream to build a ski area on one of the snowiest points in the Sierra Nevada,” said General Manager and Vice President Dan Healy. “Each generation since has built on that legacy, which we are excited to honor throughout the season while ushering in the next chapter of this adored mountain.”
Ahead of its 80th season, Sierra-at-Tahoe has completed the mountain’s multi-year post-2021 Caldor Fire reforestation project in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and El Dorado Resource Conservation District. To date, over 60,000 tree saplings have been planted — 40,000 of which were planted this summer. The trees have been arranged in clusters specifically designed to promote world-class tree skiing, wind-harden the mountain, and restore its beloved environment.
New for the 2026/27 season, Sierra is launching a mobile app that will greatly enhance the guest experience with an interactive trail map, leaderboards, and the ability to earn badges and rewards for on-mountain activity. It is set to launch on the App Store and Google Play Store this November. The mountain is also implementing a new parking reservation system on weekends and holiday periods geared toward encouraging carpooling for a healthier environment and easing the guest experience by guaranteeing spots for those with reservations. Parking reservations will be free for Sierra-at-Tahoe passholders and cars arriving with four-plus people, and $25 for those with three or less people in a car.
Sierra-at-Tahoe is thrilled to start its 80th season as soon as it has enough snow to open, typically in late November to early December.
~ Sierra-at-Tahoe press release
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