South Lake Tahoe Mayor Bass presents State of the City address

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - It is always nice to reflect on accomplishments instead of focusing on the negative, and South Lake Tahoe Mayor Cody Bass's State of the City address did just that.

Bass highlighted what is being done to elevate South Lake Tahoe for an inspired future, focusing on the City's five strategic priorities, and he shared their strategic plan tracker.

1. Built Environment - Sugar Pine Village's first phase is nearing completion, highlighting the City's $25 million dedication to housing; the passing of an inclusionary ordinance where impacts of larger homes being built are financially helping housing; housing programs with down payment assistance; South Lake Tahoe earning a "pro-housing" designation; the expansion of micro-transit and the upcoming development of a JPA with El Dorado County for transportation.

2. Recreation & Equitable Access - The new recreation and swim complex is under construction with new recreation programming already in place. They have involved the public through community engagement (outreach and workshops), and had a successful first year of a park ranger program. Ski Run Park is open and being enjoyed.

3. Community for All - Sustability with a water bottle ban that other cities are now emulating. The city continues to work on accessibility but steps have been taken.

4. Economic Development - Commercial revitalization is happening though a stronger economic health by creating opportunities is still needed. Vacant properties are being addressed. Private property they cannot control but the city is offering incentives to be built. Target, Cascade Kitchen, Aster Corner, and new businesses inside the old KMart are all moving forward. Yes, many have closed but cannot forget those that have opened. There has been movement on the Chateau project as well.

5. Core Services & High-Performing Government - 78 percent of residents in the city say they feel the city is in a good place. A new fire engine has been delivered, the first responder's communication system is being improved, upgrading of fire stations and the plan to rebuild Fire Station 3 is moving forward, road rehabilitation is a nonstop project but more is being done than ever before, upgrades to the snow removal response with new graders over last three years and more coming, more efficient services, and improved sidewalk snow removal.

Bass said the strategic plan will be updated again in 2025. He said he's never seen the city function at the level it is currently at. Bass said he is grateful to City Manager Joe Irvin and City Attorney Heather Stroud for the change of culture, and it shows what positive energy and culture can do.