The Pershing County Commission covered a wide range of topics during its March 4 meeting, hearing from Interim District Attorney Jack Bullock regarding the hiring of a permanent DA for the county. (See story page 1)
Commissioners also held a lengthy discussion on a proposal to repair the courthouse lawn irrigation system and landscaping.
Commissioners reviewed bids for a project estimated at just over $103,000 but ultimately voted to reject the proposals for now.
Commissioners said the project may still move forward but should likely be addressed during the upcoming budget process rather than immediately. Several commissioners expressed concern about the cost and timing, noting the courthouse lawn hosts many community events during the summer months.
Others noted the system has deteriorated over time and could present maintenance and liability concerns if not addressed in the future.
The issue is expected to be returned for discussion during budget planning later this year.
Commissioners also approved several other items during the meeting.
The board approved a request from the Frontier Community Coalition Mustang Youth Group to hold a community Easter Egg Hunt at the McDougall Sports Complex on April 5. Organizers said the event is expected to serve up to 300 children and families.
Under economic development matters, commissioners approved a $3,500 sponsorship for a corporate table at the Western Nevada Development Summit scheduled for March 30 in Lovelock. The board also agreed to waive the Community Center rental fee for the event.
Commissioners also approved a request allowing the former Windmill building on Cornell Avenue to be considered as a potential mural site as part of a regional “Music and Murals” public art project aimed at bringing tourism and public art to rural communities.
Public safety funding was also addressed during the meeting.
The board approved applying for a $35,941 state grant to purchase three new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units for local volunteer fire departments. Officials said the new equipment will replace aging units that can no longer be serviced.
District Court received approval for $10,000 in opioid settlement funds to support adult education programs.
The funding will be used to purchase Chromebooks for adults working toward GEDs or high school equivalency diplomas through Pershing County’s alternative education program.
Court officials said education can play an important role in reducing recidivism and improving long-term outcomes for individuals in the justice system.
Commissioners approved a request to hold an aviation swap meet to be held at Derby Field Airport on April 18–19, 2026.
During the meeting, county staff confirmed that insurance coverage for the event had been reviewed and that the county would be listed as an additional insured party.
With that confirmation, commissioners said they had no objections to the event moving forward.
The board unanimously approved the request, clearing the way for the aviation gathering at the county airport this spring.
Department updates were also provided during the meeting.
The Pershing County Road Department reported ongoing road maintenance work across several areas of the county while taking advantage of recent moisture to improve road conditions. The department also completed a turnaround area for school buses near Irish American Road.
Library staff reported continued growth in participation for children’s story hour programs and strong interest in the library’s new 3-D printing program.
Emergency services reported increasing call volume. Pershing County Ambulance responded to 29 calls since the previous meeting, while local fire departments reported several highway incidents, including recent livestock trailer accidents that required lengthy responses.
The Pershing County Clerk’s Office also noted that candidate filing for the 2026 election cycle had opened and will close March 13.
The meeting concluded with approval of routine claims and expenditures.
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