IVGID Summer News – Punch Card Updates and Statement from GM Winquest Regarding Beach Facility Fee

June 5, 2023 | Member Submitted

Provided by IVGID at www.yourtahoeplace.com

June 1, 2023 marks the beginning of IVGID Recreation Punch Card renewal season. Generally, Punch Cards can be renewed online via the Recreation Punch Card renewal portal, or by stopping by the Rec. Counter inside the Incline Village Recreation Center (click here for Rec. Center hours). There are multiple changes to the way Recreation Punch Cards work and the value associated with them due to recent updates made by the IVGID Board of Trustees at the May 25, 2023, Board of Trustees Meeting. We have attempted to provide answers to many of the frequently asked questions about Punch Cards below and on the IVGID Passes & Punch Cards webpage. But if you still have questions, please call the Rec. Counter staff at 775-832-1310. (Click here for Rec. Counter hours of operation.)

What is the value for Recreation Punch Cards renewed on or after June 1, 2023?
For parcels with beach access, punch cards will have values set at $91.00 (which is 1/5 of the $455 Beach Facility Fee for the 2023/2024 fiscal year).

Why did the value of Punch Cards go down compared to last year?
The value of Punch Cards has traditionally been set as 1/5 of the Total Combined Fee of the combination of the Recreation Facility Fee and Beach Facility Fee. The Recreation Facility Fee is the annual Recreation Standby and Service Charge assessed to parcels within Incline Village and Crystal Bay to support recreation services, programs, and facilities. The Beach Facility Fee is the annual charge assessed to parcels with Beach Access to support operations, capital improvements, and debt service for the IVGID beaches. Both of these fees are paid as part of Washoe County property taxes.

For Reference: During the 2022/2023 fiscal year, the Recreation Facility Fee was $450 and the Beach Facility Fee was $330, for a Total Combined Fee of $780 per parcel with beach access. Thus the value of a Punch Card was set at 1/5 of this total – $156. (For parcels without beach access, punch cards had a value of $90 – 1/5 of the $450 Recreation Facility Fee.)

For the 2023/2024 fiscal year, the IVGID Board of Trustees voted to set the Recreation Facility Fee at $0 and the Beach Facility Fee at $455, for a Total Combined Fee of $455 per parcel with beach access (or $0 per parcel without). Thus the value of a Punch Card was set at 1/5 of this total – $91. (For parcels without beach access, Punch Cards would have $0 value.)

For full details on why the fee has changed, please click here to read the “Statement from GM Winquest Regarding the Recreation/Beach Facility Fee.”

STATEMENT FROM GM WINQUEST REGARDING THE RECREATION/BEACH FACILITY FEE

I would like to provide some clarity to address some confusion around how the District was able to reduce the Recreation/Beach Facility Fee from $780 (combined) to $455 (Beach Facility Fee only) for this coming year which results in a deduction of $325 for parcels that have beach access. The quick answer would be projected net profit from Diamond Peak Ski Resort, budget reductions, and drawing down of available Fund Balance (reserves).

Fund Balance (reserves) explained:

The district maintains reserve policies for its various fund types, Utility, Community Services, General, and Beach. See link to policy 7.1.0

Board Policy – 7.1.0 – Appropriate Level of Fund Balance

Each fund type has a required Fund Balance (reserves) by policy. Over the past several years, the district has accumulated considerable Fund Balance as much as 500% more than what is required by policy for reserves. There are several factors that contribute to these increases including assessing Facility Fees in anticipation of future planned capital projects, net profits from Diamond Peak Ski Resort, and savings and reduction in operating and capital budgets to name a few. This along with the retirement of debt from bonding several years ago, has resulted in an inadvertent over‐collection of Recreation Facility Fees. It’s important that the District be sensitive to assessing the Recreation/Beach Facility Fee at a level that is sustainable but does not continuously contribute to increases in fund balance above what is required by policy unless otherwise directed by the Board of Trustees.

What is included in the Community Services Fund:

The Board took action to allocate $1.8 million in net profits from Diamond Peak, along with a minimal amount of available Fund Balance in the Community Services fund which means the fund does not need or require support from the Recreation Facility Fee. The Community Services Fund includes, Diamond Peak, Recreation (Recreation Center/Community Programming/Recreation Administration), Golf Courses, Facilities/Events, Food & Beverage and Tennis. Please note that parks was moved from the Community Services Fund to the General Fund.

What is included in the Beach Facility Fee:

The Beach Facility Fee will be $455 which includes and will contribute $3.5 million to Beach operations and capital outlay. The Beach Fund is also supported $1.3 million in Charges for Services as well as $ 1.73 million of available fund balance (reserves). Parcels without beach access do not pay the Beach Facility Fee, so therefore these parcels will not pay any facility fees this year.

What does this mean for Recreation Punch Cards?

Parcels that do not pay the Beach Facility Fee will not have access to Recreation Punch Cards while the parcels that pay the Beach Facility Fee have access to Recreation Punch Cards with a value of $91 per card which is 1/5th of the Beach Facility Fee of $455. Up to three additional punch cards can be purchased and also have a value of $91.

Has this happened in prior years to this level?

No, it has not, however the Board of Trustees made the prudent decision based on current financial circumstances as this allows parcel owners to utilize the reduction/savings in this year’s fees to spend how they choose. The fees are evaluated each year based on the operational financial needs of the District, planned capital improvement projects and the potential for bonding of the large projects.

It’s also important to note that the Recreation/Beach Facility Fee is not a component of your Washoe County property taxes, it’s a fee assessed by IVGID that is collected by Washoe County on behalf of IVGID on the annual property tax bill.

Respectfully,
Indra Winquest – District General Manager

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In The News: ‘Local heroes’ to be recognized during 3-day July Fourth celebration in Incline Village

June 5, 2023 | Member Submitted

Originally published with the Tahoe Daily Tribune 06/06/23

INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. – Incline Village will host a “Local Heroes Fourth of July Celebration” from July 2-4 that will include, among other events, a pancake breakfast, parade, community fair and SkyShow.

The three-day extravaganza will commence with a Pancake Breakfast on July 2, followed by the Local Heroes Parade and Community Fair. Paying tribute to our esteemed veterans, numerous events on July 3 and 4 will honor their contributions. The pinnacle of the celebration is the Incline Village Crystal Bay SkyShow, a display of lasers and drones that have replaced traditional fireworks with a safe and environmentally conscious alternative.

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University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe celebrates awarded faculty and staff

June 4, 2023 | Member Submitted

Three faculty and staff members were awarded for their commitment and dedication to the recently acquired Wayne L. Prim Campus.

Three members of the faculty and staff at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe have been honored with University-wide awards this spring. Senior Vice Provost Jill Heaton received the Distinguished Service Award, Montana Hodges in the Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering received the Foundation Outstanding Letter of Appointment Teaching Award and Cheyenne Magpantay received the Foundation Classified Employee of the Year award. All three have contributed to the ongoing transition at the Lake Tahoe Wayne L. Prim Campus, expanding the University’s impact.

Jill Heaton, Distinguished Service Award

Heaton has a distinguished career of leading within the Department of Geography as a faculty member and department chair, as the vice provost for faculty affairs, and currently as senior vice provost of the University.

Heaton served as Sierra Nevada University’s executive vice president and provost during the acquisition year (2021-2022), helping guide the transition and development of the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe.

“Dr. Heaton leads through her actions, and her consistent and remarkable achievements have elevated this University since she joined us in 2004,” University President Brian Sandoval said. “In her role at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe, Dr. Heaton has provided invaluable leadership and was a tremendous resource to the newest members of the Wolf Pack family.”

Serving as a bridge between Reno and Lake Tahoe, Heaton led discussions with faculty, staff and students, and hosted several sessions for faculty and staff to learn about the new University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe Wayne L. Prim campus. During the transition, Heaton lived at the Wayne L. Prim campus to better connect with the faculty, staff and Incline Village communities.

“Our focus has been on the success of the students, the success of the employee transition and the success of the institution,” Heaton said in an interview earlier this year about the transition. “We are so humbled that we were entrusted to lead through this transitional time and we are proud to continue in roles that will see all through into new opportunities. No matter the challenge or the ask, our view has always been something more than a job.”

Heaton joined the University in 2004 and continues to serve as senior vice provost of the University supporting the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe.

Montana Hodges, Outstanding Letter of Appointment Teaching Award

Montana Hodges instructs one to two non-major courses each semester in the Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering. Hodges utilizes hands-on and interactive methodologies along with real-world examples that engage students in the curricula and bring the course concepts and applications into students’ lives. Lesson plans are adjusted to increase engagement, reach more students and foster a positive learning environment. Hodges will continue to instruct at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe for the Fall 2023 Semester at Lake Tahoe, exemplifying a commitment to her students.

“Lake Tahoe is a unique and beautiful place from any perspective, but absolutely from that of a geoscientist,” Paula Noble, chair of the Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering said. “In bringing her teaching expertise to the Lake, Dr. Hodges is sure to make learning in this spectacular environment an exceptional experience for her students. Dr. Hodges has been a welcome addition to the teaching faculty in the Department of Geological Sciences and Engineering. I’m thrilled she was honored with this award.”

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Hodges is working with two faculty on a National Science Foundation GEOPATHS proposal, providing funding to teach dual high school/college department courses for the Dean’s Future Scholars Program.

Cheyenne Magpantay, Foundation Classified Employee of the Year Award

Cheyenne Magpantay serves as the executive assistant to Senior Vice Provost Jill Heaton. Magpantay served in this role during the acquisition of Sierra Nevada University and the transition to the University of Nevada, Reno. She received an enthusiastic nomination from Anza Jarschke, the MFA Low-Residency program coordinator at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe. As a faculty member originally with Sierra Nevada University, Jarschke praised Magpantay for her support, quick action on challenging issues, and dedication to the success of the transition.

“If you take a glance at Cheyenne’s responsibilities, you know she goes above and beyond the scope of executive assistant,” Jarschke said. “She approaches all obstacles with a dedication to figuring out how to overcome them. Cheyenne takes on responsibilities like the rest of us snack, starting with a tiny piece and returning for more.”

Magpantay was also nominated by the Office of Diversity and Inclusions for her time serving in a previous role as executive assistant to the Office of Diversity and Inclusion officer.

“When I think about her tenure at the University and all the people she’s worked with, both closely and in passing, I can’t help but imagine how great the scope of her impact has been and how it will only continue to grow,” Angela Moore, program development specialist in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Magpantay’s second nominator, said.

Committed to a growing community

The Wayne L. Prim Campus at Lake Tahoe is hosting a wide range of events over the summer and the University is also preparing for the Semester at Tahoe in Fall 2023. With plenty of growth ahead, the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe is grateful for the work of all faculty and staff. Congratulations to those who have been honored this year.

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DJ Mark Sexton & MC Uncle E to Captivate IVCB SkyShow Audience with Unparalleled Energy and Enthusiasm and Sound

June 3, 2023 | Julie Malkin-Manning

The IVCB SkyShow soundtrack will be provided by DJ Mark Sexton, as he returns to a bigger and brighter experience. Returning to create the soundscapes for the SkyShow again this year, DJ Mark Sexton will create the synchronized sounds of the Laser and Drone shows as well as perform DJ Sets before the shows.

Guitarist and songwriter Mark Sexton has had a longtime love for experiencing music from every possible angle. Whether it’s behind the microphone, singing and playing guitar for his acclaimed groups, (The Sextones & Whatitdo Archive Group), or from behind the turntables, performing a DJ set that tells a story. His deep musical roots and knowledge of music history put him at an advantage when conducting parties and taking listeners to new places while pulling deep cuts from his massive record collection.

Not initially taking DJing seriously, it wasn’t til an experience while on tour in Europe with his band, the Sextones, that he found inspiration. “There is a culture of finding the rarest possible records and playing them out in the club that night. DJs would come on playing amazing soul 45s after our band sets. I fell in love with it right away”.

Since 2018, Sexton has gone full out with DJ events. Inspired by euro-nightclubs, his residency, “RSL Discotheque” at Rum Sugar Lime, and annual “Deeper Disco” have quickly developed a cult followings. Combining his expertise in audio mixing, and DJing, you can occasionally hear handcrafted edits of his own being played in those late nite sets. “I feel Reno’s DJ scene is deeply associated with the playa, which is amazing, but I’m looking to revive the old-school DJ culture that started in legendary clubs like Paradise Garage, or by mix engineers like Tom Moulton and DJs like Danny Krivit that paved the way for where we are now.”

Uncle E, also known as Chris Ernst, will work alongside DJ Mark as Master of Ceremonies. The IVCB SkyShow, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 4^th, promises to be an electrifying experience for attendees, featuring an enthralling Laser and Drone Show. Uncle E will infuse the atmosphere with his infectious energy and boundless enthusiasm, ensuring an unforgettable evening of entertainment.

From the Olympics, Sea World and the ESPN X Games to the Surf World Tour, Moto GP and over 100 Red Bull events, Chris Ernst (aka. Uncle E) has had the honor of being the voice and personality that helps bring events to life. His mantra of educate, entertain, and inform has helped add value to a plethora of diverse sports while engaging millions of viewers. As a former professional freestyle skier, a pioneer of the Olympic Sport of Skicross and event producer/consultant, Ernst knows how to speak the language of events and bring them to life.

As the Master of Ceremonies, Uncle E will kick-start the festivities at 7 PM by engaging the audience in a series of captivating activities suitable for the entire family. Attendees can look forward to participating in U.S. and 4th of July trivia, with exciting prizes up for grabs. Uncle E’s vibrant personality and interactive approach will create an engaging atmosphere, fostering a sense of unity and enjoyment among the audience. *Bonus – Uncle’s E’s favorite holiday is July 4th!*

The SkyShow promises to be a remarkable celebration of patriotism, as families come together to revel in the spirit of the U.S. and commemorate the 4th of July in Incline Village/North Lake Tahoe.

For further information and updates on the IVCB SkyShow and the Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration events, please visit ivcba.org.

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In The News: IVGID, local agencies work on best location for dog park

June 2, 2023 | Miranda Jacobson

Originally published with the Tahoe Daily Tribune 06/02/23. Written by Miranda Jacobson

INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — Concerns were raised over the placement of the designated dog park in Incline Village due to public safety access and potential harm to the surrounding creeks at the Village Green.

Recently, the general improvement district Board of Trustees directed staff to focus solely on the Village Green as a potential site for a designated dog park, which was determined to be a number one priority by the people of Incline Village in the community Master Plan.

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PINE NUTS – Making the Whole World Kin

June 2, 2023 | McAvoy Lane

Shakespeare had a thought that resonates with me today, “One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” So it is that my pet jay, Huckleberry, happens to be my touch of nature that makes my whole world kin, and makes me want to be the person Huckleberry thinks I am, forever caring and nurturing.

You might suppose Huckleberry doesn’t smile because he has no lips, but he does smile with his eyes, and I get to see that smile three times a day, eight o’clock for breakfast, twelve o’clock for lunch, and five o’clock for Happy Hour, when he gets a Beer Nut.

Like loving a wild animal, we can love eight billion humans when we step outside our homes, step outside our domestic minds. As our mutual friend Mark Twain likes to remind us, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.”

A walk in a meadow refreshes one’s soul and makes one want to hail a fellow traveler on the other side of that meadow.

I look forward to talking to a conference of State Parks folks from all fifty states in September. I’ve discovered over the years that folks who work on the land are about the nicest, most good-natured folks that the Earth can produce.

Those who are housebound oftentimes have a dog or cat or bird to keep them contented and in a good humor. A songbird outside one’s open window can deliver a breath of gladness and good cheer.

The folks with the best temperaments that I have had the pleasure of meeting are the Hawaiians. They tend to spend part of each day in the great out of doors, and as a result, they radiate a spirit of Aloha wherever they go. Mother Nature is a surefire resource for acquiring and maintaining a state of elation.

Should you be feeling a little “pinched” today, perhaps a little irritated with your state of affairs, take a walk on the wild side and get thee to a place in nature where your mind can do the creative thinking necessary to release negative feelings and replace them with the magic that only your own imagination can provide.

I like to think of myself as, “The Five Minute Thoreau,” for I can walk to a place in five minutes where I have a view of the Lake of the Sky that is refreshing, revitalizing, and rejuvenating. Whenever I take a friend to that spot, that friend breathes deep, rekindles animal spirits, and sheds the weight of the world.

I’m willing to bet that if we declare a worldwide day of natural beauty, when everyone will take a step into the great outdoors, well, as the Bard suggests, it just might serve to make the whole world kin. Let us celebrate this September first as the inaugural, “Making the Whole World Kin Day.”

Audio: https://anchor.fm/mcavoy-layne

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In The News: Crystal Bay Casino to host inaugural Gambler’s Run Music Festival

June 1, 2023 | Member Submitted

Originally published with the Tahoe Daily Tribune 05/31/23

CRYSTAL BAY, Nev.— The Crystal Bay Casino will host the first Gambler’s Run Music Festival over the weekend of Friday through Sunday, July 14-16.

The festival at Crystal Bay Casino, will feature three days of music, mountains, gambling, and more, with headliners including Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Shovels & Rope, and Big Sam’s Funky Nation, among many other acts.

Single-day tickets to this North Shore event are $75, with three-day passes on sale for $200. In addition, there is a single-day VIP add-on for $50.

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In The News: Waldorf Astoria moves forward with permit process; Name SB Architects as designers

June 1, 2023 | Miranda Jacobson

Originally published with the Sierra Sun 06/01/23. Written by Miranda Jacobson

CRYSTAL BAY, Nev. — The Waldorf Astoria team came together on Tuesday, May 23, for a community meeting to discuss special use permits needed for the project through Washoe County.

The meeting was the first step in the process of obtaining the permits needed to continue work on the Waldorf Astoria, which will breathe life to a town that currently has no dedicated town center.

There are multiple different special use permits that are required by Washoe County for the project to move forward with the planned amenities. The permits that are currently being applied for include a permit for general merchandise stores at the resort, as well as vehicle storage and parking permits, and employee housing and multi-family dwelling permits.

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