Brianna Kirsner seeks approval for commercial kennel and cat cafe in Nye County

In a recent meeting of the Nye County - Pahrump Regional Planning Commission, a proposal for a new commercial kennel and cat café sparked significant discussion among commissioners and community members. The project, located on a 1.2-acre parcel at 520 Southeast Street, aims to provide a space for pet grooming, dog training, and animal rescue, with a capacity for 25 to 35 cats and dogs.

Brianna Kirsner, the applicant, emphasized her commitment to improving the lives of animals, stating that her facility would help prevent unnecessary euthanasia due to behavioral and medical issues. The proposed cat café would allow community members to interact with the cats for a fee, while only prepackaged snacks and beverages would be sold on-site.

The project requires a conditional use permit (CUP), which has raised questions among some community members. One resident, Pat Leming, expressed confusion over the necessity of a CUP, recalling her experience running a commercial kennel on the same property without one. This prompted discussions about the current regulations and the permitting process, with Kirsner assuring that her facility would adhere to all county codes and standards.

Support for Kirsner's initiative was voiced by Christy Sigmond, the manager of animal services, who praised her dedication and capability in caring for animals. Kirsner addressed concerns about the animals' living conditions, explaining plans for indoor and outdoor runs, as well as measures to ensure the animals' comfort during extreme temperatures.

After thorough deliberation, the commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the application, stipulating a maximum of 35 animals. This decision marks a significant step forward for Kirsner's vision of a community-focused animal care facility, promising to enhance the quality of life for both pets and their potential adopters in Pahrump.