Town of Jackpot petition to US DOT to change official time zone approved for submission; county to consult nearby advisory boards

The Elko County Commission authorized the Town of Jackpot to prepare a formal petition to the U.S. Department of Transportation seeking to change Jackpot’s official time zone from Pacific to Mountain. Presenters told the commission that, while local practice often follows Mountain Time, the change requires a federal petition to the DOT to become official.

A town representative said local businesses and residents operate on Mountain Time and that cell phones and devices sometimes switch irregularly near the border, creating confusion for scheduling and events. The DOT handles official time-zone boundary changes, the commission noted.

During public comment commissioners and attendees suggested extending outreach to nearby advisory boards in Mountain City and Jarbidge. A commissioner revised the motion on the floor to direct staff to contact those advisory boards to determine whether they wish to be included or considered in a broader petition; the amended motion carried on a voice vote.

The commission did not set a firm timetable for the petition but directed staff to return with details after consulting the affected advisory boards. No change to the official time zone will occur until the DOT approves any formal petition.