Residents urge Nye County planning review of “zombie lots,” cite state statute and SB150 during public comment

During public comment at the June 11, 2025 meeting, two residents urged action on long-unused undeveloped parcels they described as “zombie lots,” saying many owners lack utilities and are unable to develop or sell their properties. Patricia Robb and Lorraine Gilbert urged changes to VR zoning and cited local and state authorities while asking the county to allow off-grid homes and alternative utilities to restore lot value.

Patricia Robb said the Board of County Commissioners previously acknowledged the need to meet with the planning department to address zoning for lots lacking public utilities, and she asked whether that meeting has occurred. Robb referenced "Nye County 17 0 4 9 5 0" and cited NRS 278.250 and Senate Bill 150 as legal bases she said could allow off-grid homes with alternative utilities. She said she has contacted thousands of owners and that many remain unable to use their lots due to utility constraints.

Planning staff and the chair noted the Regional Planning Commission does not itself have authority to change zoning; zoning changes are actions for the Board of County Commissioners. The chair reminded speakers that public comment must be limited to matters within the RPC’s purview. No formal action was taken; the remarks were recorded as public comment only. Commissioners and staff did not state that any BOCC meeting outcome had occurred in response to these comments during the RPC meeting.

Speakers asked the RPC to consider the scale of the problem and to coordinate with the BOCC and planning staff; staff did not report a follow-up meeting on the record during the hearing. The speakers warned of potential legal action by lot owners if relief is not pursued, but the commission did not take action at the meeting.