One Water Nevada outreach ramps up; steering committee previews tours, Smart About Water Day and education center plans

Commissioners heard a presentation April 16 on One Water Nevada outreach and education work tied to the American Flat Project and water reuse initiatives.

Mark Milan and Robert Sharpentier of the Truckee Meadows Water Authority outlined a year of engagement activities that include stakeholder briefings, staff presentations, neighborhood webinars as needed, a scheduled Smart About Water Day on May 10 at Idlewild Park, customer webinars, videos and an education center at the American Flat Project site. "This is the year we break ground next year, and this is the year we're gonna be wrapping up our communications," Robert Sharpentier told the commission.

The communications plan aims to equip elected officials, staff and community ambassadors with materials explaining how the advanced treatment facility fits into the region’s broader water-resource portfolio and why the project matters. Sharpentier and Milan described three outreach pillars: core stakeholder engagement, public outreach and targeted communications around events and exhibits.

Commissioners and staff raised frequent public concerns about cost and rate impacts. Commissioner Amber Doer said she has heard questions about project cost affecting utility rates and urged the communications team to be ready to discuss affordability and funding sources, including grants and low‑interest loans. Sharpentier acknowledged cost is a frequent question and noted the team would highlight financing options and regional benefits in outreach materials.

The presentation also summarized recent site visits. Delegations visited Florida wetlands used for tertiary polishing, a direct potable reuse pilot in Polk County and Orange County Water District’s facilities, including the Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling and Environmental Learning. Commissioners reported those tours informed design and exhibit planning for the American Flat Project’s education center; several commissioners recommended interactive exhibits and a meeting room large enough for school tours and local advisory group meetings.

Staff said outreach materials are available in Spanish online and that the communications team has coordinated with Washoe County School District and tribal partners for Smart About Water Day. Cammy Laray (communications) noted curriculum materials and flyers have been shared with the district; a press release and media interviews were planned the week following the meeting.

No action was required; staff will continue the outreach program and return with further updates as the facility design and exhibit planning proceed.