Commissioners wrap up 2024

Lincoln County commissioners held their final meeting of 2024 on Dec. 16. Office and department head updates were provided along with recent efforts by present commissioners. The department, fire district and liquor boards also met under separate agendas during the commissioner meeting. 

Commissioners were presented with the results of a 2023-2024 Lincoln County audit by Dan McArthur. The audit scored overall good reports for the county. Budget improvements were noted, with the sheriff’s office listed as the largest user of the fiscal budget. Reports reflected an increase in revenue from that department, lowering the need for supplementing with general county funds. During the sheriff’s office report, it was explained that just last week the jail added nine marshal prisoners, further relieving the general fund. Commissioner Diane Path noted she is working toward partnering with other government agencies, including ICE, to house additional prisoners in the future.

Discussion was held regarding funding not to exceed $25,000 related to flood control improvements between the Gem Theater and Pioche Club. Some action has been taken to mediate floodwaters that have caused severe limitations to the renovations at the theater in previous years. This year proved to be rather dry, resulting in a lack of testing and improvement to current flood mitigation. Lincoln County currently has $50,000 available in flood control. The Gem Theater also has $1 million that has been set aside for renovations awaiting sufficient flood control. The agenda item related to flood control did have a motion presented to approve that resulted in a tie vote. The item has been tabled, awaiting further details and discussion at a later board meeting.

Commissioners voted on a resolution updating special event policy and fees presented by Cory Lytle. Commissioner Mike Reese again voted no due to potential for races to cause disturbances to mule deer wintering grounds and populations.

This was Board Chairman Varlin Higbee’s last meeting for his elected term. Attendees took time to bid Commissioner Higbee well wishes, and board members thanked him for his service with a luncheon following the meeting. During his time as an elected commissioner, the board elected Higbee as the chairman. Long involved in local government affairs, Higbee first began on the board of commissioners in 2015.