building

Column: This time, our future must be different

It’s difficult to find the right words. Even now, a week after the on-camera murder of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, by police officers, and all of the fallout felt nationwide, I’m still trying to understand the world, how to respond as a community leader, and how to explain it to my kids. All of the frustration, sadness, and outrage — it all seems so familiar since we’ve all been witness to these acts before, all seen and read and heard about cases of unarmed black people and other people of color killed in police custody when it was clearly avoidable.

Campfire restrictions around Lake Tahoe to reduce chance of human-caused wildfires

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. - The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) is enacting campfire restrictions to protect the health and safety of employees and communities, effective immediately and until further notice. Outside of developed campgrounds and certain permitted facilities, igniting, building, maintaining or using a fire on national forest land in Lake Tahoe will be prohibited.

Casinos preparing to reopen in June with new rules

STATELINE, Nev. - Casinos in Nevada are now allowed to open once their new protocol and guidance plans are approved by the state's Gaming Control Board. Since Governor Sisolak's reopening announcement, casino properties have been putting the social distancing and safety measures in place to once again welcome guests.

Council relaxes rules on outdoor restaurant seating and advertising

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. The South Lake Tahoe City Council unanimously passed an urgency ordinance during their special meeting Thursday, one that relaxes the regulations regarding temporary signage, building permit fees, and outdoor restaurant seating rules.

As the City and County move into Governor Newsom's Stage 2 plans, restrictions placed on some places of business to promote social distancing and safety practices will not allow many to reopen in the same manner as pre-pandemic.

City of South Lake Tahoe facilities to start reopening

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The City of South Lake Tahoe will be opening their boat ramp at El Dorado Beach on Friday, May 29. Only boats with valid Tahoe, Echo Lake or Fallen Leaf Lake seals and a 2020 Tahoe sticker will be able to launch. "Tahoe Only" stickers are available for purchase at this launch site. They will be open Friday through Sunday only at this time from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Only one boat will be able to occupy the dock at a time. The boat ramp will be not be accepting cash and wireless payment technology will be utilized.

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork May 24 - 30

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has resumed work on area highways. The following is their current project list at Lake Tahoe and in the Sierra. Most traffic-interfering work will be restricted from 6:00 a.m. Friday, May 22 until 10:00 p.m. Monday, May 25 due to the Memorial Day holiday.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork May 17 - 23

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has resumed work on area highways. The following is their current project list at Lake Tahoe and in the Sierra. Most traffic-interfering work will be restricted from 6:00 a.m. Friday, May 22 until 10:00 p.m. Monday, May 25 due to the Memorial Day holiday.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

Remembering STPUD Director Jim Jones

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - On May 7, 2020, South Lake Tahoe lost a steadfast advocate for safe, clean drinking water and reliable wastewater services. James R. Jones, 77, a local engineer and avid sailor, served on South Tahoe Public Utility District’s Board of Directors for 39 years (1977-1989, 1993-2020). During his tenure on the Board, Director Jones focused on building for the future, instead of 'kicking the can down the road.’

Lake Tahoe Basin, El Dorado County and Sierra roadwork schedule for May 11-16

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is working on several projects in the Lake Tahoe area as well as El Dorado County and the Sierra.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

U.S. Highway 50 (El Dorado County): Work continues on a $5.2 million project to upgrade metal beam guardrail and construct concrete barriers at 89 locations from the Red Hawk Undercrossing to 1.9 miles west of the junction with State Route 89 in Meyers. Completion is expected in late spring 2020. No traffic-interfering work is scheduled.

The time is here to place yellow jacket traps out in South Lake Tahoe

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - It still isn't too late to prevent pesky yellow jacket interruptions of July and August picnics and outside dinners in Lake Tahoe. Now is the time to prepare by placing traps for the queens as they start to emerge from their winter hibernation.

The queens are the only bee colony member to hibernate in the winter. She emerges in spring and begins to look for a suitable place to build a nest and begin her new colony. By the end of summer one colony can have 4,000 to 5,000 yellow jackets.

South Lake Tahoe Library to offer curb-side service

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Even though they have been offering online services during the COVID-19 spurred closure, the South Lake Tahoe Library knows how much people enjoy a good book and turning the pages of excitement, knowledge, passion, and interest.

The South Lake Tahoe Library is now offering curbside pickup by appointment. Place a hold using their web site www.eldoradolibrary.org or give them a call at 530-573-3185.

Reopening guidelines approved for Nevada casinos

LAKE TAHOE, Nev. - Casinos in Nevada will not be opening during the Phase 1 reopening plan unveiled by Governor Steve Sisolak Thursday. All Nevada casinos will be required to create and implement an infectious disease prevention plan before they will be allowed to open once Sisolak gives them the green light. He said Thursday Phase 1 expires May 30 and the next phase can start then, or even earlier if all goes as planned. It is unknown at this time if casinos will be included in the next reopening phase.

Column: Practice yoga everywhere

At Lake Tahoe Yoga our motto is "Practice Yoga Everywhere." Yoga is what you do beyond your mat and while out in the world. Join us to learn more.

Yoga is Time with Loved Ones
Attending a scheduled class at a Yoga studio is a great way to be guided in movement and be around others who enjoy the same thing.

If you're looking to connect with family or friends a Private Yoga Session is the best option. It reduces the variety of aspects that make people uncomfortable.

New City Manager Joe Irvin now on the job for South Lake Tahoe

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - As of the City Council's special meeting Wednesday morning, the new South Lake Tahoe City Manager was on the job for 48 hours after being sworn in during a digital event that started off the week.

Plans moving forward for Chateau at the Village project in South Lake Tahoe

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - What was once a large hole in the ground at Stateline in South Lake Tahoe has been filling in with businesses from the Zalanta condos to restaurants and shops, and the owner of the property is now preparing to start the next phase.

City of South Lake Tahoe special meeting to request Governor Newsom allow a phased reopening

Event Date: 
May 6, 2020 - 9:00am

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - City Council will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, May 6 at 9:00 a.m. with a single agenda item: Authorization of a letter signed by Mayor Jason Collin to California Governor Gavin Newsom to request approval for the City of South Lake Tahoe for its transition to Phase 2 of re-opening the County of El Dorado and City of South Lake Tahoe for individuals and businesses.

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork May 3 - 9

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has resumed work on area highways. The following is their current project list at Lake Tahoe and in the Sierra.

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

U.S. Highway 50 (El Dorado County): Work continues on a $5.2 million project to upgrade metal beam guardrail and construct concrete barriers at 89 locations from the Red Hawk Undercrossing to 1.9 miles west of the junction with State Route 89 in Meyers. Completion is expected in late spring 2020. No traffic-interfering work is scheduled.

Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Communities weekly tip: #6: Create a home hardening plan

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. - The Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Communities is presenting their fifth "Tip of the Week," an ongoing series for the public since they are unable to perform their normal community outreach services. All tips are ways people can prepare for wildfire while staying at home.

This Week's Tip: Create a Home Hardening Project Plan

Now that the snow has melted, it's time to start planning and implementing projects that harden your home from embers to increase the chance of it surviving a wildfire.

El Dorado County Supervisors send letter to Newsom asking for phased reopening

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - During their special meeting on Tuesday, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved sending a letter to Governor Newsom to allow a phased opening of some businesses and loosening restrictions on the public in El Dorado County.

Residents have responded to the closures by abiding by stay-in-place orders enacted to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Douglas County holding special meeting to discuss recovery and economic impacts

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Nev. - The Douglas County Board of County Commissioners will be conducting a 1:00 p.m. special meeting on April 29, 2020, to discuss recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic impacts to local businesses in Douglas County. The county is actively seeking public comment from residents in regard to economic impacts on local business in Douglas County.

Roadwork schedule for Lake Tahoe and the Sierra for April 25-May 2

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) will work on projects through the Sierra, as weather permits this winter. There are no major projects going on in the Lake Tahoe Basin until the building season begins in May. The following is their weekly schedule:

Please remember to stay home except for essential needs.
California is under a Stay-at-Home Order and only essential travel is permitted.
~ Avoid travel ~ Stay-at-Home ~ Beat COVID-19 ~
Learn more at covid19.ca.gov
#StayHomeSaveLives

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

Sue Novasel to hold virtual town hall meetings on VHR issues

Event Date: 
May 13, 2020 - 5:00pm

Please note, scheduling change)

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - El Dorado County Supervisor for Area 5, Sue Novasel, will be holding two virtual Town Hall meetings to discuss vacation home rental (VHR) issues. She will be joined by El Dorado County staff to discuss the rentals in the County portion of the Tahoe Basin.

The first will be held on Wednesday, May 13 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Communities weekly tip: #5: Identify your home's ember vulnerabilities

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./Nev. - The Tahoe Network of Fire Adapted Communities is presenting their fifth "Tip of the Week," an ongoing series for the public since they are unable to perform their normal community outreach services. All tips are ways people can prepare for wildfire while staying at home.

Did you know embers are the leading cause of wildfire-related home ignitions?

Humboldt-Toiyabe: No camping in Alpine County, updates on forest use during pandemic

At the request of Alpine County in California, all Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest lands within the boundaries of the county will be temporarily closed to overnight camping starting on Saturday, April 25, 2020.

“We recognize that this overnight camping restriction comes at a time when many are seeking respite in natural areas,” said Forest Supervisor Bill Dunkelberger. “However, this temporary closure is to support state, county, and local authorities in controlling COVID-19 pandemic.”

Column: 50 years of progress for Lake Tahoe and the nation

Celebrations have taken on many new forms since the start of social distancing. Birthday parties have become processions of cars parading past a celebrant’s home—people honking and waving, tossing candy and small gifts (for later disinfecting, then enjoying). And huge international celebrations like the 50th anniversary of Earth Day this week have moved online, giving room for individuals to celebrate and explore the conservation movement in new ways.

South Lake Tahoe forecast: Building high pressure; above average temps by weekend

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Low pressure will bring chances for showers and seasonal temperatures the first part of the week. The best chance of showers will be in the eastern Sierra Monday afternoon and evening where some light snow accumulation is possible at the highest passes. High pressure will build for the end of the week with dry conditions and temperatures rising to well above normal levels over the weekend and early next week, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Reno.

Their seven-day forecast for South Lake Tahoe:

Barton Health community update: Patient surge planning almost complete

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - While determining the exact timing and scope of coronavirus’ peak in the Lake Tahoe region is difficult, Barton Health is working diligently to be prepared to respond accordingly and address the needs of patients in the community. Surge planning is almost complete including more than doubling hospital bed capacity and expanding facilities to accommodate those who may be infected by the virus.

Campfire and smoking restrictions in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is implementing fire restrictions earlier than usual this year to reduce the number of human-caused fires and reduce firefighter exposure to COVID-19 during the current pandemic. The Humboldt-Toiyabe will enact fire restrictions prohibiting campfires and smoking outside of vehicles starting on April 15 and going until May 31, or until rescinded.

South Lake Tahoe mobile vending ordinance modified to ease food truck rules

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Just over a year ago the South Lake Tahoe City Council approved a new mobile vending ordinance after the desire for food trucks was expressed by locals and businesses without kitchens.

Tahoe Women's Community Fund selects awardees of $125,000 in grants

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The Tahoe Women’s Community Fund has announced its 2020 Grant Recipients. This year they received applications for grants from over 50 organizations. Of that group, 11 non-profits on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe have been chosen to receive $125,000 that will be distributed.

Inspiration Grant Recipient:
• Boys & Girls Club of South Lake Tahoe (Building Bright Futures – $40,000)
Focus Grant Recipients in the category of Poverty, Housing, or Basic Needs):
• St. Theresa’s Parish (Bread and Broth 4 Kids: Push for Protein – $15,000)

TRPA ramps up their online permitting process

STATELINE, Nev. - Since there is no such thing as "business as usual" in the world today, businesses and agencies continue to change how they help customers and the public in a virtual world in order to protect all during the COVID-19 crisis.

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) is one that is expanding virtual services with the building season ahead to protect both staff and customers.

Agency employees have been working around the clock to move permitting, planning, and document request services to online operations since stay-at-home orders went into effect.

Barton Health community update: Medical Corps needed, 1300 masks made

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Working closely with state and county health agencies in a regional response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Barton Health is preparing for an anticipated patient surge by more than doubling its hospital bed capacity as well as expanding its facilities to accommodate patients who may be infected by the virus.

3D face shields created in South Lake Tahoe for Barton Hospital - Printer help needed

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Barton Hospital would like 1000 face shields for staff during the coronavirus pandemic, and a South Lake Tahoe couple has taken on the challenge. With about 100 masks a week they are in search of help from the community in their 3D printing efforts.

Keith and Linda Cloutier, owners of Rudy's Plumbing and Heating, are currently in production of the masks. Since a 3D printer takes about 3.5 hours to print one face shield, Keith is asking for community members who have a 3D printer to join him so they can get more shields to Barton.

Caltrans projects in South Lake Tahoe and on Echo Summit set to resume in May

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will be returning to the South Shore of Lake Tahoe this spring to complete two major projects.

Barton Health's community updates and advisories on coronavirus COVID-19

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Barton Health continues to adapt and respond to the spread of coronavirus COVID-19 in the community. The health and safety of patients and care providers is the top priority, and operational changes continue to evolve at Barton Memorial Hospital and across Barton’s coordinated network of medical offices in preparation for any potential surge in patient care.

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork March 29 - April 4

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) will work on projects through the Sierra, as weather permits this winter. There are no major projects going on in the Lake Tahoe Basin until the building season begins in May. The following is their weekly schedule:

Please remember to stay home except for essential needs.
California is under a Stay-at-Home Order and only essential travel is permitted.
~ Avoid travel ~ Stay-at-Home ~ Beat COVID-19 ~
Learn more at covid19.ca.gov
#StayHomeSaveLives

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue reopens midtown station

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue (SLTFR) once again has three fire stations operating in the city limits. Their Station #2 on Lake Tahoe Boulevard in the Al Tahoe neighborhood reopened at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

In 2015 the City had let Cal Tahoe JPA move the ambulance service into the station when SLTFR restructured and moved all ambulance duties over to the JPA. In return they gave up their fire station for five years.

Is South Lake Tahoe prepared for the coronavirus?

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Many have asked, what if our community starts getting COVID-19 cases, are we prepared? Many different groups, agencies, and the government have been working diligently and collaboratively on emergency plans to prepare.

Rental of a South Lake Tahoe vacation home or motel could result in fines

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - During their emergency meeting Wednesday, the South Lake Tahoe City Council voted to support the temporary use of the City's recreation center for the homeless population during the coronavirus pandemic and to follow the State of Calfornia's lead not halting commercial evictions at the time.

TRPA approves 6,000 seat Tahoe South Event Center

STATELINE, Nev. - The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) board today unanimously approved the Tahoe Douglas Visitor’s Authority Tahoe South Event Center planned for the parking lot area of Montbleu Casino Resort in Stateline. Edgewood Tahoe has donated the 13.3 acres at the corner of Lake Parkway and Highway 50 needed for the center.

Special South Lake Tahoe meeting to address emergency housing, evictions and vacation homes

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The South Lake Tahoe City Council is holding a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25 to discuss three topics related to community needs surrounding the current coronavirus pandemic.

The meeting starts at 1:00 p.m. and remote attendance instructions are available below.

Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition announces annual award winners

LAKE TAHOE, Nev. - During these challenging times, everyone can use some good news which is why the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition (LTBC) has announced its 2019 Bicycle Achievement Awards. Each year, the LTBC honors those that have made significant advancements to promoting safer bicycling and walking opportunities for the Lake Tahoe-Truckee area.

This year, LTBC received 13 nominations and has announced the following Bike Achievement Awardees:

Public Agency: City of South Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork March 22 - 28. 2020

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has scheduled work on El Dorado County and other Sierra roads.

TRPA becoming virtual in response to COVID-19

LAKE TAHOE, Calif./NEv. - The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) has announced they are taking further steps to adapt to changing circumstances in preventing the spread of COVID-19 illnesses. The agency is moving to online, electronic, and virtual operations to the greatest extent possible to protect its customers, staff, and the community.

More closures announced in South Lake Tahoe due to coronavirus concerns

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - There is a rapidly changing response to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, with businesses, nonprofits, and agencies having to change procedures and policies often.

At this time, the following closures or change to business practices have been announced:

Some El Dorado County buildings closed due to snow; Courts still open

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. - Many El Dorado County offices in South Lake Tahoe and other areas are closed Monday due to snow.

El Dorado County officials have closed the following buildings due to weather conditions:

Planning and Building
Environmental Management and Union Mine Disposal Site
Department of Transportation (other than road and snow crew)
Airports, Cemeteries, Parks
District Attorney
County Counsel
Child Support Services
Auditor
CAO's office
Human Resources
Assessor
Surveyor
Elections

Coronavirus concerns change LTCC physical education classes and gym use

Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) took additional steps on Friday to help curb the spread of the Novel Coronavirus related to fitness classes. They sent out an email to staff and students, letting them know of closures but some do affect community members who use the gym and facilities.

For up-to-the-minute news on LTCC closures and events, visit http://www.ltcc.edu/campusresources/health-and-safety/coronavirus.php. They will be updating them as things change.

Lake Tahoe, Sierra and El Dorado County roadwork March 8 - 14

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) will work on projects through the Sierra, as weather permits this winter. There are no major projects going on in the Lake Tahoe Basin until the building season begins in May. The following is their weekly schedule:

LONG-TERM PROJECTS

Tahoe Art Walk - March 14, 2020

Event Date: 
March 14, 2020 - 2:00pm

Every Second Saturday, Tahoe Art Walk takes place all along Tahoe’s South Shore from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This fun, free, self-guided local art tour returns March 14th to bring you new art and new events. Follow the live map at www.TahoeArtWalk.com on your mobile device or print out the map before you head out.

Tahoe Art Walk spans from Stateline, Nevada to Meyers, California. Meet photographer Dirk Yuricich at his Stateline studio, and see his awe-inspiring landscape photography of Tahoe and the world.

Location

South Lake Tahoe
United States

Letter: Zephyr Cove Elementary is a great option for Nevada families

With over half of the school year completed, the talk at preschool pickup lately amongst the parents has been kindergarten – a big transition that seems like the official beginning of your child’s school career. Living in Nevada and working locally in town, parents have the ability to choose between any of the South Lake Tahoe public schools or our local district school in Zephyr Cove.

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