Douglas County Board approves grant funding for independent living positions

In the heart of Douglas County, Nevada, the Board of County Commissioners convened on May 15, 2025, to discuss pivotal community initiatives that promise to enhance local services and infrastructure. The meeting, marked by a blend of anticipation and collaboration, focused on two significant agenda items: the approval of grant-funded positions in community services and the annexation of a site for the future Douglas County Justice Center.

Brooke Ady, the Community Services Director, opened the discussion with an update on a new grant from the Aging and Disability Services Division. This funding will support two critical positions: a deputy public guardian and a case manager, aimed at bolstering independent living services for residents. Ady emphasized the importance of this grant, noting that it is the first year of funding for this initiative. The board's approval is essential for moving forward with hiring, contingent upon the continuation of grant support. "These positions are contingent on our ability to continue to secure grant funds," Ady explained, highlighting the program's reliance on external funding.

The commissioners expressed their support, with Commissioner Tolbert seeking clarification on the temporary nature of the positions. Ady confirmed that if the grant funding were to cease, so too would the positions. The board unanimously approved the deobligation of over $106,000 in grant funding, signaling their commitment to enhancing community services.

The second major topic of discussion revolved around the future Douglas County Justice Center, which is set to be located at 1280 Buckeye Road in Minden. Deputy District Attorney Zach Wadley presented a resolution to annex the Justice Center site into the town of Minden, a necessary step for the district court to operate legally within the county seat. "If the annexation were not accomplished, the district court could not hold court in the building," Wadley stated, underscoring the legal implications of the decision.

The commissioners recognized the importance of this annexation, with Commissioner Dolberg noting that it was a crucial step in the process. County Manager Jennifer Davidson expressed her enthusiasm for the project, acknowledging the collaborative efforts with the town of Minden throughout the planning stages. Despite some design disagreements, the partnership has been fruitful, and the board moved forward with the resolution, which passed unanimously.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners took a brief recess, leaving behind a sense of progress and optimism for the future of Douglas County. With the approval of essential community services and the groundwork laid for the Justice Center, the board is poised to make significant strides in enhancing the quality of life for its residents.