Originally published in the TRPA ENews Housing update
Efforts to address housing affordability in the Tahoe Basin are entering an important new stage, and we want you to be part of what comes next.
This month, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) is kicking off Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) scoping for the Cultivating Community, Conserving the Basin project. This process will take a close look at how proposed housing policy changes can protect the natural environment while continuing to support local residents that are the fabric of our community.
Read on to learn how you can share your input, stay informed, and follow along as this work moves forward. Your voice matters, please stay engaged and help spread the word.
–Long Range Planning Department
Upcoming Opportunities for Input
TRPA has initiated an environmental impact statement for proposed policies to improve housing affordability, water quality, and environmental conditions in the Tahoe Basin.
A public scoping period is now open for the public to provide input on any impacts that should be considered in the environmental analysis. The public scoping period for the EIS will remain open through March 16, 2026. Please submit written comments to housing@trpa.gov or provide spoken comment at the February 11 Advisory Planning Commission meeting.
Garden with Purpose: Fire-Adapted Landscaping & Community Resources
February 10, 2026 | Member Submitted
Below are events we received which might be of interest to you. We are seeking community members who would be able to attend the Fire Adapted Community Conference on February 23/24. (See the link below)
Check out our recent landscaping presentation with UCCE Master Gardeners and North Tahoe Fire- How to Select Appropriate Plants for Fire Adapted Landscapinghttps://youtu.be/Q0dlYzZeiSE?si=2hs2nUSnSjfRAu5t
In solving challenges surrounding short-term rentals, Placer County staff and an advisory group will continue to refine proposed solutions after the Board of Supervisors offered feedback on draft amendments to the county’s STR program and related ordinance amendments. The supervisors provided the input at the board’s meeting at Granlibakken Tahoe on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
To start, county staff offered an update on the county’s Short Term Rental (STR) Advisory Group which has investigated a variety of topics related to STRs in a data-driven approach since its first meeting in February 2024.
The group was formed to include a variety of stakeholders such as property owners, managers, residents and others to ensure the STR program considers economic, community, and environmental concerns.
Over the course of meetings, the group found that property owners not acquiring a permit is the biggest non-compliance with the county’s STR program.
Another insight is finding that only a small percentage of the STRs are suitable for workforce housing and that in most cases, STR owners are people who want to use their home and would not make them available for the workforce.
Overall, the group felt that increasing the quality of the STR operator through education and enforcement, rather than increasing regulations or rules, was a better approach.
County staff have utilized the group’s research and conversations to propose STR program changes and draft ordinance modifications presented to the board for feedback.
There were four main proposals outlined and described in further detail below that came from the STR advisory group’s input:
180-day waiting period
owner education requirements
two-tier permit structure
permit exchange program
The proposed 180-day waiting period would apply to new property owners who must wait the six month period before applying and receiving an STR permit. The waiting period is intended to ensure that the new owners are informed of ordinances and responsibilities, obtain defensible space inspections, and address other considerations.
In staff’s proposal, educational requirements would be a parameter for property owners to obtain a new STR permit.
A two-tier permit structure was proposed to align with the Tahoe Basin Area Plan which seeks to focus lodging in town centers or resort areas. The idea is to divide permits between tier-1 units (two bedrooms and under) and tier-2 units (three bedrooms and above). As new hotels are developed, STR permits would retire, starting with tier-1 units at a one-to-one ratio with new hotel units.
The staff’s proposed STR permit exchange program would act similarly and as an extension to the Least to Locals program, incentivizing tier-1 property owners to permanently retire their STR permit and rent the unit long-term to local workers.
While supervisors were open to the permit exchange program and viewed educational requirements as a good idea, remaining items would need more fine-tuning before receiving full support, particularly the waiting period. There was concern that the period could be too long or unfair to properties that have a well-informed property manager or a history as an STR.
On the two-tier permit structure, Supervisor Cindy Gustafson said the intention made sense, but cautioned that with many different types of condos in the area (some located in resort areas and others not), they need to be careful with how the tiers are applied. Supervisor Bonnie Gore also addressed the two-tier program and said it needs more research.
Following feedback from the board, Deputy County Executive Officer Stephanie Holloway and Senior Management Analyst Nicholas Martin said they will assess refining the waiting period to consider the type of applicant, the applicant’s STR experience and the property’s history.
In response to other feedback, staff said they would incorporate the educational component and ensure the property’s local contact is also in the loop, not just the owner.
Per other inquiries from the board, staff will bring the discussion to the advisory group centered around STR economics. The two-tiered permit structure will also return to staff and the advisory group for more refinement and consideration.
In The News – Local Diamond Peak athlete Lila Lapanja to ski in 2026 Olympic Winter Games
February 8, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 2/8/2026, Staff Report
The Incline Village-based professional ski racer will compete for Slovenia in the Women’s Slalom at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Local Incline Village-based professional ski racer Lila Lapanja has realized a life-long dream and qualified to compete in the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Cortina, Italy.
Lapanja grew up on the slopes of Diamond Peak Ski Resort, first learning to ski at age 2 when her parents scattered Easter eggs around the bunny slope and challenged little Lila to pick them up while wearing skis. She fell in love with the sport quickly and ultimately found a supportive environment with the Diamond Peak Ski Team as her junior ski racing career took off.
Lapanja began her professional ski racing career on the U.S. Ski Team, winning four U.S. National Championship titles along the way. After years of competing on the World Cup, Europa Cup and NorAm race circuits as an independent racer from the U.S., she switched affiliations to ski for her father’s home country of Slovenia two years ago, with the goal of qualifying for the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics.
Smitty moved from Las Vegas to Maui in the seventies, dramatically changing his lifestyle from a well-healed casino croupier to a barefoot Hana cave dweller. We had a running club on Maui and Smitty jumped right in. He was a talker, and the baldest man I ever met. I saw a fly try to land on Smitty’s head one day and that fly slipped and broke a leg…
I helped him move into his new home in Hana, a cave set into the cliff overlooking Heavenly Hana beach there at Koki Park. It didn’t take but ten minutes to move him in as he had hardly any belongings. Then we went for a run on the beach…
He kept a small garden next to his cave, and seemed satisfied to live on seeds, seaweed and shellfish.
One day while out running I told Smitty I was going to Las Vegas for the weekend. He smiled a knowing smile and asked innocently enough, “Mac, would you like a number to call for some female companionship? You might get lonely out there on the strip.” Apparently, Smitty was quite a swinger in his ramblin’-gamblin’ days.
I remember Smitty giving everybody a hug after a run one day, and my girlfriend asking me, “Honey, who is that interesting man?”
“That’s my bookie, Honey, Smitty. He knows more about football than John Madden.”
Smitty ran the Maui Marathon barefooted, with J-E-S-U-S S-A-V-E-S printed on his toes. He finished in under three hours, then retreated to his Hana cave without partaking in the apre race party. Besides, he had to get back to his unofficial job as lifeguard of Koki Beach. He also considered himself to be the Beach Kahuna, and as such he would police any and all litter every morning after a sunrise swim…
He told me once that he would use his portable radio to listen to kids asking me a riddle each morning on the air at 6:30. I never did get a riddle right, so Smitty guessed that’s why they called me the king, and he had a laugh at that…
Smitty was at home one morning when the ledge he lived on gave way and carried him to his death beneath a pile of Hana cinder. If ever there was an act of God that was identifiable to me, that was it…
The Maui Sun asked me about Smitty, and I recently came across what I said at the time: “I loved that guy. We have to believe he’s up there acting as race director for Jesus.”
That was March of 1984. I imagine by now Smitty is in charge of all foot races in heaven, and is delivering the pre-race blessings himself. And if after the race you just happen to have a pair of dice on you, well, you might want to sit down next to Smitty and test your luck…
Everybody loved Born Again Smitty. May his beautiful Hana soul rest in eternal marathons…
In The News – How much water is in the snow? This winter’s numbers raise concerns
February 6, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 2/6/2026, Written by Petra Molina
Most people in Tahoe would agree the Sierra Nevada snowpack is one of California’s most valuable natural resources. For some, that value is tied to powder days and packed parking lots at ski resorts. In reality, the snowpack’s importance extends far beyond winter recreation.
Skiers and snowboarders care about depth and quality. Hydrologists — and anyone who relies on Sierra snowmelt — focus on something else: how much water the snow actually holds. That measurement is known as snow water equivalent, or SWE.
On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30% of California’s annual water needs. Its ability to store precipitation through the winter and release it gradually in spring is why it’s often called the state’s “frozen reservoir.”
In The News – Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline opens 2026 community funding requests
February 5, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally Published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 2/5/2026, Staff Report
The Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline is now accepting funding requests for 2026 from nonprofit organizations, service groups, and community-based projects that strengthen and enrich life in the Tahoe region and beyond. Through its Community Funding Request Program, Rotary proudly supports a wide range of initiatives that address education, public safety, health, youth development, human services, and global humanitarian needs.
Funding is made possible through the club’s signature fundraising event, Best Ball for a Cause, along with contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Grant awards are evaluated based on community benefit, demonstrated need, and alignment with Rotary’s mission of service above self. Grants are not awarded for general operating expenses, salaries, tuition, travel, or tournament entry fees.
“Our club is passionate about supporting projects of all sizes that create real, measurable impact,” said a representative of the Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline. “From local classrooms to global clean water efforts, Rotary is committed to investing in solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities.”
From Tahoe’s halfpipe to the Olympic Winter Games, 15-year-old Abby Winterberger competes in Italy
February 5, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published with KUNR Public Radio | By Maria Palma, 2/5/2026
From early morning powder days in Tahoe to the world’s biggest winter sports stage, one local skier is now competing at the Olympic Winter Games in Italy.
Fifteen-year-old Abby Winterberger, who grew up in Truckee, departed for Italy on Tuesday and is the youngest athlete on Team USA.
Winterberger doesn’t remember a time before skiing. Her parents put her on skis before she turned two, immersing her early in mountain life.
“I’ve kind of been immersed in the ski culture forever,” Abby said.
By the age of six, she was already competing, not only in skiing, but also in gymnastics. Her mother, Rosemary Winterberger, said it quickly became clear her daughter had a combination of talent and drive.
“She was throwing flips on the skis at a really young age,” Rosemary said. “She was super dedicated and hardworking and really loved it.”
Valentine’s Day in Incline Village & Crystal Bay: Celebrate Love, Community & Connection
February 4, 2026 | Kristin Derrin
IVCBA Members, if we missed your event or special please let us know so we can update: kristin@ivcba.org
Valentine’s Day in Incline Village and Crystal Bay isn’t just about candlelit dinners; it’s about community, creativity, and finding meaningful ways to connect with the people (and places) we love. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, friends, family, or simply treating yourself, here are some local ways to make February 14 feel special.
Tahoe Gifting: Just Because – We like you and we Love to Party
If you’re looking for something relaxed, creative, and community-driven,Tahoe Giftingis kicking off Valentine’s Day with a feel-good afternoon at The Cut—and no, you don’t need a reason other than they like you.
This free, low-pressure event is all about slowing down and enjoying where we live and who we get to share it with. Come solo, bring your favorite person, or gather a few friends and make an afternoon of it.
What to expect:
Tastings with Minden Mill Distillery
Charcuterie snacks
Create a custom love-potion room spray with Sierra Soapbox Candle Co.
Design a bag charm or keychain at the new charm bar
On-site laser engraving so your piece is unmistakably yours
Add cozy music, projected visuals, and The Cut’s welcoming energy, and you’ve got a Valentine’s celebration that’s more about connection than convention. Free event. RSVP encouraged.
Fundraiser: Tahoe Family Solutions – Heart of Giving Award Brunch
Start Valentine’s Day by celebrating generosity and community impact at this meaningful fundraiser honoring two local champions.
TheHeart of Giving Awardrecognizes individuals whose generosity, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting difference for children and families in our region. This year’s inaugural award is presented to Joe & Polly Wolfe, whose deep care for the Lake Tahoe community continues to inspire connection and positive change.
Looking for a cozy, elevated dining experience? Sage Leaf Tahoeis offering Valentine’s specials that hit all the right notes.
Dinner Special (Dinner Only): House-made Langostino & Feta Ravioli with sautéed cherry tomatoes, peas, and a rosé cream sauce
Dessert Special (Available All Day): Dark Chocolate Crème Brûlée with macerated strawberries and strawberry coulis
Perfect for date night or dessert first.
Family-Friendly: H’Art & Harmony at Incline Elementary
Celebrate creativity, music, and community atH’Art & Harmony, an evening showcasing art and live music from Incline Elementary School students.
Enjoy student performances, an inspiring art exhibit, hands-on crafts, a fun raffle, and snacks available for purchase. This joyful, family-friendly event brings together students, families, and friends in support of arts education—and reminds us that love shows up in many forms.
Local favorites, including Bite, Big Water Grille, and Happy Tiers Bakery
Don’t forget to grab your flowers atWyld Peony for stunning, locally crafted bouquets. Perfect for Valentine’s Day and guaranteed to make someone smile. They have tons of Valentine’s Day flowers, fun gifts, and flowers in-store only. There will be some premade cash and carry bouquets, small gift items (jewelry, teddy bears, etc.), and cute little premade arrangements in fun containers (disco ball, glass heart). And they will have all the usual items available online and by phone. 775.298.2799
Whether you’re dressing up, creating something meaningful, giving back, or simply gathering with good people, Valentine’s Day in Incline Village and Crystal Bay is full of ways to celebrate connection—local style.
Teamwork and Triumph: Incline High School We the People Team Claims State Championship
The Incline High School We the People team captured first place at the Nevada State Competition in Reno last weekend, earning the honor of representing Nevada at the National Competition in Washington, D.C. this April. Led by teacher Milton Hyams, the team impressed judges with its depth of constitutional knowledge, poise, and collaboration. “The teamwork of this group of students is among the best I have seen—supportive, driven, and they pick each other up,” Hyams shared.
The Incline Education Fund is leading the fundraising effort to help get the team to Washington, D.C. To support these outstanding students, visit https://www.inclineeducationfund.organd click the Donate Now button.
Incline Middle School Continues to Shine
The latest WCSD Student Climate Survey results place Incline Middle School well above district and middle school averages across every social-emotional learning indicator.
Students report strong gains in Student Voice, Bullying Prevention, and overall school climate—clear evidence of a school culture where students feel safe, respected, and supported.
This success is especially significant during the middle school years, a critical period for building confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Research and experience consistently show that when students feel connected to their school community, they attend more regularly, engage more deeply in learning, and demonstrate stronger academic outcomes. By prioritizing student well-being alongside rigorous academics, IMS is laying the foundation for sustained success and a confident, well-prepared transition to high school.
Big Energy at Incline Elementary School
There’s a lot of excitement buzzing at Incline Elementary School, where students are learning, creating, and connecting in more ways than ever. The Rising Star Book Club is sparking curiosity through hands-on STEM activities offered not only after school through the Curiosity Club, but also during recess—turning free time into moments of discovery and problem-solving.
Adding to the momentum, IES is launching a new 4th/5th grade soccer team that will compete against other WCSD schools, giving students a chance to build teamwork, confidence, and school pride through athletics.
Families and community members are also invited to experience the creativity firsthand at H’art & Harmony on Wednesday, February 12, from 5:00–6:30 p.m. This special evening will feature an exhibition of student art and music, celebrating the many talents of IES students and the vibrant culture of the school.
