Eureka County schedules April public hearing on two Main Street properties

Eureka County commissioners voted March 3 to schedule a public hearing for 10 a.m. on April 21 to accept single appraisals and set fair market values for two downtown properties commonly known as The Alpine Lodge and Louie’s Lounge. Chairman Rich McKay said the county has discussed purchasing the properties, paying for demolition and then making the lots available for commercial purchase.

The hearing will be held under Nevada statutes cited by the Board (NRS 244.2795 and NRS 244.275) that govern disposition and sale of county property. The Board approved the hearing date by a 3-0 vote after a brief presentation explaining the process and the County’s intent to determine fair market value before any further action.

During public comment, Steele Raine urged the Board not to move forward with a county purchase, arguing the buildings were not a significant danger and that a private buyer would be preferable. Raine warned the county could be “taken to the cleaners” on costs if it proceeded without further review. In Crescent Valley, Emily Whittlesey told commissioners that many residents are unaware of the Greenlink North transmission project and suggested using the county newsletter to improve public outreach; Whittlesey’s comment was recorded during the general public comment period preceding the property discussion.

The Board’s action sets the appraisal record and opens a formal opportunity for public comment at the April hearing before any determination of fair market value or subsequent sale or demolition. Next steps include the public hearing on April 21 and receipt of any oral or written comments at that time.