A.B. 114, a new legislative proposal introduced by Assemblymember DeLong, aims to overhaul the appointment process for county fair and recreation boards in Nevada, specifically targeting counties with populations between 100,000 and 700,000, such as Washoe County. The bill, prefiled on January 23, 2025, seeks to empower board members by allowing them to request new lists of nominees for board appointments, rather than relying solely on the three appointed members from the county commissioners and the two largest cities.

The current structure mandates that the board consists of nine members, with specific appointments made by local government bodies. A.B. 114 shifts this dynamic, enabling all board members to participate in the nomination process, which could lead to a more representative and inclusive board. Additionally, the bill proposes that the Chair of the board be elected from among all members, rather than being limited to the three appointed representatives, fostering a more democratic leadership structure.

While the fiscal note indicates no financial impact on local or state governments, the bill has sparked discussions about governance and representation in local affairs. Supporters argue that these changes will enhance accountability and responsiveness to community needs, while critics may raise concerns about the potential for increased political maneuvering in the nomination process.

As A.B. 114 moves through the legislative process, its implications for local governance and community engagement will be closely monitored. If passed, this bill could set a precedent for how county boards operate, potentially influencing similar reforms in other regions. The next steps will involve committee reviews and discussions, where the bill's supporters will need to rally further backing to ensure its passage.