The Pershing County Commission heard from Nevada Association of Counties (NACO) Executive Director Vincent Guthreau and Health and Human Services Manager Amy Hyne-Sutherland during their regular meeting last week, receiving an in-depth update on statewide county initiatives, legislative outcomes, and new support resources available to rural governments.
Guthreau, who represents all 17 Nevada counties through the statewide association, outlined NACO’s role as both an advocacy and training organization for county officials. He noted that Pershing County Commission Chair Joe Crim serves on the NACO Board of Directors, helping ensure rural issues remain part of statewide discussions.
“Our goal is to make sure counties have a strong, unified voice at both the state and federal level,” Guthreau said, adding that NACO worked closely with lawmakers during the most recent legislative session to protect local funding streams and expand participation in fiscal and policy discussions.
Hyne-Sutherland, who serves in a newly created NACO position focused on health and human services, described efforts to help rural counties coordinate more effectively with state and federal agencies. Her priorities include support for the opioid abatement fund programs, adult and child protective services, Medicaid coordination, and public health outreach through local districts.
“We’re trying to make sure rural counties aren’t reinventing the wheel,” she said. “Our job is to help connect you with the right partners, the right grants, and the right state offices so you can get the most out of the programs already available.”
Commissioners raised concerns about gaps in rural health care delivery, transportation for seniors, and the shortage of available workers to support new managed-care programs. Hyne-Sutherland acknowledged the challenges, emphasizing that the new statewide system will take time to build but said the insurers are now required to help develop local provider networks.
In other commission business, Commissioners received several reports. Derby Field Airport Manager Neil Gallagher reported declining fuel sales as winter approaches and said the Airport Advisory Board has recommended lowering the avgas price to $5.50 per gallon to stay competitive and encourage more traffic. The board also prioritized updating the Airport Layout Plan for FAA funding and continues to refine lease agreements for future hangar expansion.
The county’s code enforcement division currently has 117 open cases, with the majority located in Grass Valley. One recent violation was successfully resolved and brought into compliance.
Court Administrator Kate Martin of the 11th Judicial District Court requested and received approval for $30,000 in opioid settlement funds to continue year-round drug testing for the specialty court program. Martin reported no overdose deaths in the past year, crediting the expanded seven-day testing schedule.
Wendy Nelson was appointed to the Pershing County Economic Development Authority Board to fill a vacancy.
Public Defender Steve Cochran reported an increase in defendants attempting to use artificial intelligence tools to generate pseudo-legal filings, calling it a growing challenge for defense attorneys statewide.
Representatives of Polar X Ltd. discussed Humboldt Range Inc. regarding possible lease or purchase of patented mining claims near Florida Canyon. County staff will review options and report back.
The meeting concluded with routine approval of vouchers and expenditures. Commissioners also received brief updates on broadband, emergency management, and public works projects.
The Pershing County Commission meets the first and third Wednesdays at 8:30 a.m. The next meeting is scheduled for November 19.
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