Summary
The Elko County Planning Commission voted to approve a conditional use permit for Love's Travel Stops to operate a short-term RV parking area in Jackpot, subject to staff conditions including utility reviews and a required fire hydrant.
The Elko County Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for Love's Travel Stops and Country Stores to operate a short-term recreational-vehicle parking area in Jackpot, the panel decided during a public hearing. The commission's approval was subject to staff conditions and recommendations, and the motion carried on a voice vote.
Staff said the permit allows a commercial RV area with complete hookups and noted the site is separate from nearby employee housing. "This is also designed to be a very short term RV parking. Our average across the nation is a couple days," said Sean Baker, real estate manager for Love's, who spoke to the commission about the proposal. He said the RV area would be gated and managed by the store's managers.
The planning staff listed conditions that must be met before development proceeds, including: improvement plans submitted to the Elko County Planning and Zoning Division, Elko County Building and Safety Division, and Jackpot Public Works for review and approval; a requirement that a new conditional use permit must be sought within six months if the property is sold and the new owner wishes to continue the RV use; and that local utility and safety agencies must approve connections and plans. Staff and applicants told the commission that Jackpot Fire Chief Brian Hugel and town management requested a fire hydrant to be placed near the center of the project site; Love's representatives indicated they had no objection.
Commissioners discussed local housing and business dynamics in Jackpot, including whether a single company could come to dominate local lodging options. One commissioner noted several existing mobile home parks, some owned by Cactus Pete's casino, and expressed concern about monopolization while supporting the short-term design. Commissioners emphasized the permit's distinction from employee housing previously approved nearby.
The commission did not record individual roll-call votes; the public hearing concluded with a voice vote and the commission chair announcing the motion carried.
Less-critical procedural details include staff's requirement that improvement plans receive review or conditional approval from the listed county and local agencies before building permits are issued.
