Pahrump committee aims to reestablish town board by 2026 ballot

During the Nye County Board of County Commissioners regular meeting on July 1, 2025, significant discussions emerged regarding the potential reestablishment of the Pahrump Town Board, alongside concerns about public comment restrictions and past financial decisions impacting the community.

Diane Southworth opened the meeting with a historical overview of previous decisions made by the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) that she argued had detrimental financial consequences for the county. She highlighted a missed opportunity with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding airport development, which could have brought millions in funding. Southworth also criticized the financial management of local assets, such as a golf course and the fairgrounds, suggesting that these decisions have led to unnecessary costs for the county.

Public comments continued with Amy Nelson expressing concerns about the restrictions on public commentary during meetings, arguing that limiting speaking time from five minutes to three undermines constituents' rights to express their opinions. She emphasized that such restrictions could hinder meaningful dialogue between the commissioners and the public.

Dr. Tom Waters then presented a proposal to reestablish the Pahrump Town Board, stating that a petition drive is underway to gather the necessary signatures to place the issue on the November 2026 ballot. Waters clarified that the town board would not have the authority to raise taxes, a common misconception among residents. Instead, he argued that the board would manage local services such as fire departments and parks, thereby enhancing community governance.

Tina L. Von Kublin echoed Waters' sentiments, advocating for the town board's return. She pointed out that the absence of a town board has left Pahrump without local oversight, which she believes is increasingly necessary given the town's growth and the challenges faced by residents. Von Kublin suggested that the reestablishment of the board could alleviate some of the burdens on county commissioners, allowing them to focus on broader county issues.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing sentiment among residents for more localized governance and accountability. As the community of Pahrump continues to expand, the call for a town board may gain momentum, potentially reshaping local governance structures. The outcome of the petition drive and the subsequent ballot measure will be pivotal in determining the future of local representation in Pahrump.