Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Events Animal Welfare topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Nye County delays circus license decision after animal-welfare, USDA citation concerns
Summary
After multiple public commenters and staff raised past USDA citations and complaints tied to circuses connected to Jordan World Circus, Nye County continued the outdoor festival license public hearing to Jan. 21, 2026, and asked that the circus owner attend to address animal-welfare questions.
Nye County commissioners continued consideration of an outdoor festival license for Jordan World Circus after public commenters cited media reports and USDA inspection records alleging prior violations by organizations linked to circus animal handling.
Ashley Hanley, representing the applicant, said the company is Las Vegas–based and could provide requested porta-potties and logistical support; commissioners and the sheriff pressed for assurances about animal care and security. Sheriff Joe McGill recommended two deputies on duty for the event if attendance reaches the applicant’s estimate of 1,500 people.
Multiple callers and commenters referenced USDA citations and an item in the Las Vegas Sun that described prior notices connected to Carson & Barnes and other circuses, and urged the board not to approve the permit without further verification. Nye Communities Coalition and animal-shelter staff said county NRS and local ordinances already prohibit direct public contact with dangerous wild animals and reminded the board those standards would apply if the event is approved.
The board voted to continue the public hearing to Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, and amended the continuation to require a representative from Jordan World Circus (preferably owner Jody Jordan) to appear either in person or by phone to respond to animal-welfare and safety questions.
Why it matters: The county must balance public events and local festivals with animal-welfare laws and public-safety responsibilities. Past citations connected to related organizations raised caution among commissioners and the public.
What’s next: The item will return for a continued public hearing Jan. 21 with a Jordan World Circus representative present; the board indicated it will consider conditions (porta-potties, payment for deputies) if it subsequently approves the license.
