11/12/2026 Gerlach/Empire CAB Meeting

The Washoe County Gerlach/Empire Community Advisory Board meeting was held November 12, 2026. The main procurement-related update concerned a proposed Google-funded solar and battery-backup installation at Gerlach’s community center and fire department. The estimated total cost was approximately $174,000, including four hours of battery backup, and Google offered to cover the full cost. The proposal was scheduled for consideration by the Board of County Commissioners on November 17; no approval or contract award occurred at this meeting. The county is developing a broader portfolio of solar projects and expects to use project managers, engineering and design services, and installation contractors; the Gerlach work may be bundled with that portfolio. A separate community microgrid assistance project remains in early design and planning stages.

The board also raised concerns about last-minute permitting and inspection requirements affecting small businesses, including a pizza business that reportedly faced about $18,000 in required changes shortly before an event. County staff noted the feedback and will follow up; members suggested reviewing the special-use permit process, but no policy change or procurement decision was made. Highway safety and infrastructure needs—including sidewalks, a guardrail, and a highway intersection—were discussed, as were Burning Man traffic coordination and road improvements, but no funding or project approvals were made. Meeting minutes were adopted unanimously with changes.