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Local Realtors outline 'checkerboard' land-exchange push; Carlin council declines action
Summary
Elko County Realtors presented a resolution seeking federal changes to simplify land exchanges in checkerboard-pattern BLM lands; councilmembers asked questions about local impacts and took no action at the Dec. 11 meeting.
Representatives of the Elko County Realtors’ Public Policy Committee described a multi-state effort to address problems created by the historic "checkerboard" pattern of federal and private land ownership. Paul Bottari said the 1862 Union Pacific Act’s original land-allocation pattern is impractical in Nevada and complicates ranching and development; proposed remedies include bulk appraisals, streamlined environmental review, and shared federal exchange costs.
Mayor Dana Holbrook raised concerns about whether private consolidation of adjacent lands might affect the city’s ability to acquire property for future needs, and Vice Mayor Margaret Johnston said she wanted to study the issue further. Denise Taylor recused herself from voting because of her employment with Elko County Realtors. The council took no action at the meeting but left open the possibility of future consideration.
