Round Hill Pines Scheduled to Change Operators at End of 2013

Bob and Tammy Hassett, current operators of Camp Richardson and Meeks Bay Resort have been selected to run the concession at Round Hill Pines Resort according to Cheva Heck of the U.S. Forest Service. The current lease is held by the Forvilly family and is set to expire on December 31, 2013. Frank Forvilly has operated Round Hill Pines since 1971 and just found out yesterday that they weren't awarded the new contract. Forvilly told SouthTahoeNow.com that this has come as "quite a shock and we're still trying to digest the news." Forvilly, Hassett and two others vied for the operation through a selection process that began in December, 2012.

The Forvilly family also has the Bleu Wave and H20 Water Sports which operate out of the resort. It is unknown at this time what will happen with those ventures according to Forvilly.

The Hassetts will operate Round Hill Pines Resort under a special use permit, offering family-oriented recreation on the shores of Lake Tahoe. According to the U.S. Forest Service the Hassetts’ proposal emerged as the top bid by best meeting the evaluation criteria, as well as an independent evaluation of the business plan. Heck told SouthTahoeNow.com that there is a 45 day appeal period for those who's applications weren't accepted and it is unknown at this time if anyone will appeal the decision.

Round Hill Pines is a lakeside resort located on the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) in Douglas County, Nev., near the communities of Stateline, Nev. and South Lake Tahoe, Calif.

“We’re eager to move forward with the Hassetts in offering an array of recreation opportunities at this beautiful lakefront resort,” said Nancy Gibson, LTBMU forest supervisor. “I’d like to thank all four bidders for taking the time to prepare their proposals and for their enthusiasm about Lake Tahoe recreation.”

Bob and Tammy Hassett’s vision for the resort includes,” providing a balance between enhancing the natural setting, providing high quality public service through the operation and redevelopment of this family-oriented beach resort and marina facility, and enhancing the visitor experience.” The Hassetts will operate Round Hill Pines under a 30-year Granger-Thye Act special use permit. Under a Granger-Thye permit, fees to the government may be offset through investments in the property.
The Hassetts are proposing improvements to the highway entrance and entry road, as well as new restrooms and showers. In the upper cabin complex, they are proposing rehabilitating the historic lodge to include food service, constructing a new group gathering area overlooking Lake Tahoe, designating bike parking, and constructing new cabins to replace the historic cabins. In the lower resort and beach area, they are proposing a special event pavilion, upgrades to the outdoor pool, and a new day-use parking lot. New overnight accommodations would include yurt-like structures and tent camping. A new day lodge would replace the existing restaurants and include a restaurant and bar, space for special events and a camp store.

All proposals for new activities at the site will undergo National Environmental Policy Act analysis, including public involvement. All improvements will include water quality best management practices, and meet Forest Service guidelines for accessibility and visual standards.