Washoe, Clark’s leaders discuss new bills

Adrienne Packer

Wednesday, March 7, 2001 | 10:52 a.m.

Clark and Washoe county commissioners shared the dais Tuesday in an unprecedented meeting held to discuss bill proposals before the state Legislature and to share strategies.

Washoe commissioners who flew down for the afternoon meeting at the Clark County Government Center said the trip was well worth their while.

"Clark County is the largest district in the state and anytime you can sit down with the big dog, it can't hurt," said Jim Shaw, chairman of the Washoe County Commission. "The more communication you have with people, the more you can accomplish for the betterment of the community."

The two boards, assisted by Clark County Manager Dale Askew and his Washoe counterpart Katy Singlaub, discussed proposed unfunded state mandates, gaining more flexibility to pass ordinances, land use and electric deregulation.

Commissioners agree with a plan to transfer child welfare responsibilities to counties. Counties currently oversee protective services while the state handles the foster care system. Incongruities in the system creates gaps that result in children bouncing around in foster homes for years.

If the state transfers its employees to the county, commissioners expect funding to accompany them.

Board members also agree the proposed flexibility law might be most difficult to pass. The bill would give counties more authority over redevelopment, housing, public safety and health and sanitation issues. The state, which dictates what counties can and cannot do, might be reluctant to pass such a bill.

"There is reluctance to give up authority to counties," said Jim Spinello, the county's franchise manager who also leads its legislative team. "They like this parent-child relationship."

Clark County shared its position on electric deregulation with elected officials from the second-largest county in the state.

Clark County commissioners oppose the sale of Sierra Power plants and are pushing to delay deregulation.

"Getting together and talking about common issues creates a good relationship between the two counties," Shaw said. "I think this is the start of something."