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Landscaper in commercial zone
Editor:
It is unfortunate that Tom Porter has attacked the Town of Minden and Designing with Nature Inc. in his "Everything is terrible" letter. The old Minden Park area is a wonderful place with a mix of older homes, businesses and a beautiful park - well cared for by the Town of Minden.
The Town of Minden and Designing with Nature Inc. are doing their part in maintaining the beauty and character of the Minden Park area.
Unfortunately, Tom Porter has emanated his unhappiness on his neighbors with false and exaggerated accusations. Specifically, Designing with Nature has never parked in front of the home of Tom Porter.
Designing with Natures is a landscape company who has been creating beautiful landscapes for homeowners and businesses in the Carson Valley for eight years and has worked hard to solidify its positive reputation in the community.
Designing with Nature maintains its offices at its commercially zoned property at 1616 Highway 395 on the corner of Sixth Street in Minden.
Designing with Nature intends to continue to serve the landscaping needs of Carson Valley residents and maintains good relationships with reasonable people.
Kenneth C. Barnes
president
Minden
History belies housing study
Editor:
I'd like to think a growth pays study by the building industry would be ignored by county officials. But when it gets your lead headline it demands a response. History has shown that bad information can end up the basis for bad policy.
You correctly label this report advocacy, not science.
You're also correct that controlled growth advocates could produce a report with opposite conclusions. So how do others decide? I use common sense and my own experience, 30 years of which was spent in county land use planning.
Growth certainly pays handsomely for land owners and developers and it can provide a living for those who work for them. But this debate should be about the entire community, particularly its government.
It's our government that sets growth policy, which should operate in the broader public interest.
So let's look at it from that angle. We've had decades of unfettered growth in Douglas County. Where has it gotten us?
First, the economy. We have greatly exceeded the absorption rate here. That's the ability of the market to absorb new development.
Approved projects go unbuilt, lots remain empty, there's a vast inventory of unsold real estate. Growth may have bolstered the economy in the short run but has now undermined it.
Many development related workers have lost employment. Real estate values and liquidity have fallen dramatically. The secondary effects are rippling through the economy. A more sustainable rate of growth could have limited the damage.
And local government? Well, despite past growth, Douglas County seems to struggle more than ever to make ends meet. Jack Van Dien's same day column documents this well.
Then there are the impacts of growth that create their own costs. Traffic is a good example experienced by all. There are many others.
What does experience elsewhere tell us? We all know that as communities grow, tax burdens increase because they become more costly to run on a per capita basis. There are few economies of scale in government. In fact there are usually diseconomies of scale.
As growth proceeds, both the depth and breadth of services increase.
Citizens need and demand more of what's already provided and also demand new services. Standards increase, requiring more resources to meet them, while many problems worsen.
My experience tells me growth doesn't pay enough to cover the costs it generates. There may be good reasons to grow, but we'll have to pay for it with higher taxes and service costs, as we're doing now.
Personally, I'd rather focus on the type of community we want and then figure out how to pay for it. I think most residents would opt for a substantially slower rate of growth in the future and that should be the basis of public policy here. I'd be happy to pay more taxes if growth and the costs it brings were limited, but not if they aren't.
Let's ignore the self-serving arguments of the building industry and get on with adopting the growth limit favored by voters.
Terry Burnes
Gardnerville
Casino would
benefit county
Editor:
With reference to your "Jethro's casino takes first step in Douglas County" article, I agree with the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce outgoing Executive Director Skip Sayre's observations that the economic benefits to the residents of Douglas County could be substantial. It would appear that the beautiful exterior design component of the proposed project would assist in helping the development become one of the architectural anchors of our county's northern border.
Yes, Max Baer Jr. is somewhat controversial and a little outspoken, but one must appreciate his resolve, after all, he has been relentless is his attempts to build a hotel casino in Northern Nevada. Rejecting a project based solely on an individual's personality characteristics has no place in the decision making process of land use entitlement. If it did, projects like the Sears Tower of Chicago, Trump Towers of New York, Pebble Beach of Carmel and a good portion of the San Francisco skyline probably wouldn't exist today.
It is that type of tenacity that has lead to the success of many ventures and many of our most successful businesses. We are a nation built on entrepreneurial spirit. In the words of our 30th president, Calvin Coolidge: "Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
I encourage the Douglas County commissioners to give the project the consideration it justly deserves.
David M. Semas
Gardnerville
Editor:
I can't figure out why some people are against this project. It appears, by the pictures I've seen, that it would add a beautiful complex to the county. Isn't gambling legal in Nevada? Why try to stop this from going through? The only thing I can think of is "competition" for some and "not in my backyard" for others. Anyway, I'm all for it. I'd also like to see the freeway completed in my lifetime.
Jim Neighbors
Gardnerville
Editor:
As a resident of Douglas County, I would just like to say that I support Max Baer's proposed project in our area, 100 percent. I feel that it would be a very positive thing for our county and our residents. Jethro's Beverly Hillbillies Mansion and Casino Resort would provide excellent job opportunities for our community as well as revenue for the county. I feel we need some growth here and I think this is an excellent start.
Sara Moretti
Stateline
Editor:
The efforts put forth by Mr. Max Baer to build his Beverly Hillbillies Mansion and Casino in the Carson Valley are to be applauded by all. From what I see from the plans this is a win-win for the community and the county. The draw of needed tourism with a place to stay, that offers the entertainment and relaxation for tourists, will be a great benefit for all.
The employment of locals to be able to work near home and be part of a "one of a kind" resort is another big plus. The revenue generated from the casino will greatly help the tax base for the county. Mr. Baer has our support for his project, as I hope we can someday all enjoy his resort as much as the TV show.
Tom and Sue Gleason
Zephyr Cove
Editor:
We are writing this in support of the new casino that Max Baer Jr. is proposing for Carson Valley. There are currently no casinos with an unusual and recognizable theme in the area that draw tourists and locals alike to not only gamble, but just enjoy the ambiance and uniqueness of the facilities. We believe this proposed casino would be a major tourist attraction, increase tax revenues and benefit the entire Carson Valley.
Peggy Ellena
Julie Burns
Zephyr Cove
Editor:
I am a resident of Zephyr Cove, and of course I am a frequent shopper in Carson City on a regular basis. I've noticed the growth in town as well as casino expansion taking place. It is with great pleasure that I am hearing about a new casino called "Jethro's Casino" by Max Baer is shaping up to be built. This theme would be most entertaining to all who visit and I believe would definitely catch the eye of locals and travelers bringing more attention and business to Carson City. I applaud Max's idea, efforts and contributions to the community. Please encourage this particular new casino.
Annie Armstrong
Zephyr Cove
One nation
under God?
Editor:
Are we "One Nation Under God?"
History has shown that America has been blessed more than any other nation on earth. Blessings can only come from God, not from other people or from governments. From the beginning of our nation, it has been America's destiny to oppose tyranny, and to spread freedom around this world. Should we ever give up on this sacred obligation, we shall surely cease to be "One Nation Under God."
Dieter Hoffmann
Coleville
Editor:
It is unfortunate that Tom Porter has attacked the Town of Minden and Designing with Nature Inc. in his "Everything is terrible" letter. The old Minden Park area is a wonderful place with a mix of older homes, businesses and a beautiful park - well cared for by the Town of Minden.
The Town of Minden and Designing with Nature Inc. are doing their part in maintaining the beauty and character of the Minden Park area.
Unfortunately, Tom Porter has emanated his unhappiness on his neighbors with false and exaggerated accusations. Specifically, Designing with Nature has never parked in front of the home of Tom Porter.
Designing with Natures is a landscape company who has been creating beautiful landscapes for homeowners and businesses in the Carson Valley for eight years and has worked hard to solidify its positive reputation in the community.
Designing with Nature maintains its offices at its commercially zoned property at 1616 Highway 395 on the corner of Sixth Street in Minden.
Designing with Nature intends to continue to serve the landscaping needs of Carson Valley residents and maintains good relationships with reasonable people.
Kenneth C. Barnes
president
Minden
History belies housing study
Editor:
I'd like to think a growth pays study by the building industry would be ignored by county officials. But when it gets your lead headline it demands a response. History has shown that bad information can end up the basis for bad policy.
You correctly label this report advocacy, not science.
You're also correct that controlled growth advocates could produce a report with opposite conclusions. So how do others decide? I use common sense and my own experience, 30 years of which was spent in county land use planning.
Growth certainly pays handsomely for land owners and developers and it can provide a living for those who work for them. But this debate should be about the entire community, particularly its government.
It's our government that sets growth policy, which should operate in the broader public interest.
So let's look at it from that angle. We've had decades of unfettered growth in Douglas County. Where has it gotten us?
First, the economy. We have greatly exceeded the absorption rate here. That's the ability of the market to absorb new development.
Approved projects go unbuilt, lots remain empty, there's a vast inventory of unsold real estate. Growth may have bolstered the economy in the short run but has now undermined it.
Many development related workers have lost employment. Real estate values and liquidity have fallen dramatically. The secondary effects are rippling through the economy. A more sustainable rate of growth could have limited the damage.
And local government? Well, despite past growth, Douglas County seems to struggle more than ever to make ends meet. Jack Van Dien's same day column documents this well.
Then there are the impacts of growth that create their own costs. Traffic is a good example experienced by all. There are many others.
What does experience elsewhere tell us? We all know that as communities grow, tax burdens increase because they become more costly to run on a per capita basis. There are few economies of scale in government. In fact there are usually diseconomies of scale.
As growth proceeds, both the depth and breadth of services increase.
Citizens need and demand more of what's already provided and also demand new services. Standards increase, requiring more resources to meet them, while many problems worsen.
My experience tells me growth doesn't pay enough to cover the costs it generates. There may be good reasons to grow, but we'll have to pay for it with higher taxes and service costs, as we're doing now.
Personally, I'd rather focus on the type of community we want and then figure out how to pay for it. I think most residents would opt for a substantially slower rate of growth in the future and that should be the basis of public policy here. I'd be happy to pay more taxes if growth and the costs it brings were limited, but not if they aren't.
Let's ignore the self-serving arguments of the building industry and get on with adopting the growth limit favored by voters.
Terry Burnes
Gardnerville
Casino would
benefit county
Editor:
With reference to your "Jethro's casino takes first step in Douglas County" article, I agree with the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce outgoing Executive Director Skip Sayre's observations that the economic benefits to the residents of Douglas County could be substantial. It would appear that the beautiful exterior design component of the proposed project would assist in helping the development become one of the architectural anchors of our county's northern border.
Yes, Max Baer Jr. is somewhat controversial and a little outspoken, but one must appreciate his resolve, after all, he has been relentless is his attempts to build a hotel casino in Northern Nevada. Rejecting a project based solely on an individual's personality characteristics has no place in the decision making process of land use entitlement. If it did, projects like the Sears Tower of Chicago, Trump Towers of New York, Pebble Beach of Carmel and a good portion of the San Francisco skyline probably wouldn't exist today.
It is that type of tenacity that has lead to the success of many ventures and many of our most successful businesses. We are a nation built on entrepreneurial spirit. In the words of our 30th president, Calvin Coolidge: "Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."
I encourage the Douglas County commissioners to give the project the consideration it justly deserves.
David M. Semas
Gardnerville
Editor:
I can't figure out why some people are against this project. It appears, by the pictures I've seen, that it would add a beautiful complex to the county. Isn't gambling legal in Nevada? Why try to stop this from going through? The only thing I can think of is "competition" for some and "not in my backyard" for others. Anyway, I'm all for it. I'd also like to see the freeway completed in my lifetime.
Jim Neighbors
Gardnerville
Editor:
As a resident of Douglas County, I would just like to say that I support Max Baer's proposed project in our area, 100 percent. I feel that it would be a very positive thing for our county and our residents. Jethro's Beverly Hillbillies Mansion and Casino Resort would provide excellent job opportunities for our community as well as revenue for the county. I feel we need some growth here and I think this is an excellent start.
Sara Moretti
Stateline
Editor:
The efforts put forth by Mr. Max Baer to build his Beverly Hillbillies Mansion and Casino in the Carson Valley are to be applauded by all. From what I see from the plans this is a win-win for the community and the county. The draw of needed tourism with a place to stay, that offers the entertainment and relaxation for tourists, will be a great benefit for all.
The employment of locals to be able to work near home and be part of a "one of a kind" resort is another big plus. The revenue generated from the casino will greatly help the tax base for the county. Mr. Baer has our support for his project, as I hope we can someday all enjoy his resort as much as the TV show.
Tom and Sue Gleason
Zephyr Cove
Editor:
We are writing this in support of the new casino that Max Baer Jr. is proposing for Carson Valley. There are currently no casinos with an unusual and recognizable theme in the area that draw tourists and locals alike to not only gamble, but just enjoy the ambiance and uniqueness of the facilities. We believe this proposed casino would be a major tourist attraction, increase tax revenues and benefit the entire Carson Valley.
Peggy Ellena
Julie Burns
Zephyr Cove
Editor:
I am a resident of Zephyr Cove, and of course I am a frequent shopper in Carson City on a regular basis. I've noticed the growth in town as well as casino expansion taking place. It is with great pleasure that I am hearing about a new casino called "Jethro's Casino" by Max Baer is shaping up to be built. This theme would be most entertaining to all who visit and I believe would definitely catch the eye of locals and travelers bringing more attention and business to Carson City. I applaud Max's idea, efforts and contributions to the community. Please encourage this particular new casino.
Annie Armstrong
Zephyr Cove
One nation
under God?
Editor:
Are we "One Nation Under God?"
History has shown that America has been blessed more than any other nation on earth. Blessings can only come from God, not from other people or from governments. From the beginning of our nation, it has been America's destiny to oppose tyranny, and to spread freedom around this world. Should we ever give up on this sacred obligation, we shall surely cease to be "One Nation Under God."
Dieter Hoffmann
Coleville
