Bethany Drysdale
Group of Leadership Academy graduates

Apply now for Washoe County Leadership Academy

This is an educational and leadership program unlike any other in the community, promoting knowledge of local government and providing leadership training in conjunction with the University of Nevada, Reno Cooperative Extension. There is no charge, but participation is limited to only 30 people.

Washoe County Photo

Washoe County Regional Animal Services and Nevada Humane Society unite in urgent appeal to save lives in overcapacity crisis

In a joint effort to combat an overwhelming overcapacity crisis, Washoe County Regional Animal Services (WCRAS) and Nevada Humane Society (NHS) wish to issue a heartfelt plea for immediate community support. WCRAS is facing an unprecedented challenge as, after over a week of operating at critical capacity, on Tuesday May 30, 2023, WCRAS dog kennels reached 100 percent capacity, and more dogs are continuing to arrive with nowhere to go.  While WCRAS isn’t an adoption agency, the animals that do not get reclaimed from WCRAS are made available for adoption by NHS, SPCA of Northern NV and many rescue group partners throughout our region. Many of these partnering shelters are also full.

image that says Memorial Day: remember and honor

Washoe County offices closed Memorial Day, May 29

Most Washoe County offices will be closed Monday, May 29, 2023, in observance of Memorial Day. The Office of the County Clerk at the Washoe County Complex will remain open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for fictitious firm names, notary bond filings and marriage licenses. 

Washoe County Photo

Top headlines from the Board of County Commissioners Meeting

The Board of County Commissioners approved the annual budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1, 2023. The $1.065 billion budget was built according to the Board’s strategic objectives: fiscal sustainability, economic impacts, vulnerable populations and innovative services, and it comprises several funds, including the General Fund, Special Revenue Fund, Capital Projects Fund, and the Debt Service Fund.

Docents dressed up in 1800s fashion inside Bowers Mansion.

Living History Day at Bowers Mansion

The historic Bowers Mansion will begin its 2023 tour season with another Living History Event. Return to the days of Nevada’s statehood, bring a picnic lunch, enjoy the grounds and tour the mansion. Save the date: May 20.

Image of the five county commissioners with the label "Meeting Highlights"

Top headlines from the Board of County Commissioners Meeting

In response to the pressing need for daycare options in our community, the Board introduced a first reading of code amendments related to daycare facilities in Washoe County. The Board also reappointed Kathryn Nelson to the Washoe County Planning Commission.

Washoe County Photo

Programs on the Porch is back with its wildlife edition, featuring local wildlife professionals presenting information on a variety of species. These presentations will be showcased every Friday night from May 19 through June 23 from the porch of the historic Bowers Mansion.

Programs on the Porch presentation schedule:

May 19 – Birds of Prey with Marie Gaspari (LIVE Birds)
May 26 – Bears with NDOW
June 2 – Snakes with the UNR Biology Dept. (LIVE Snakes)
June 9 – Bats with Carson Creature Catchers
June 16 – Bees with the No. NV Beekeepers Association (LIVE Bees)
June 23 - Bobcats & Mountain Lions with NDOW