Grading is proceeding at a rapid pace on the Ascente property. The grading for the Sierra Village at the end of Fawn Lane and Brushwood Drive appears to be mostly done. Grading has started along the ridge and saddle areas (Tioga Village). At the southern end of the property next to Patti Lane (Donner Village) there is little grading but there appears to be trenching for a water main. See the photo gallery for new images.
Notes on the Ascente development …
- The project was approved by the Washoe County Planning Commission in June 2017. The vote was 6-1 in favor of the project despite a detailed presentation (big file) by the residents.
- The Planning Commission decision was appealed to the Board of County Commissioners in August 2017. The vote was 4-0 in favor of the project despite a presentation describing the public safety issues presented by residents. Bob Lucey, the District 2 Commissioner, recused himself from the vote due to his close ties to this developer.
- Ascente received extensions in violation of the county policy.
- The area is zoned 1 home per acre, but the developer got approval for a plan including “clustering” which permits higher density construction in sloped areas. So, if a developer has 100 acres but only 20 acres are level, he can build the 100 homes on the 20 acres and meet the zoning requirement.
- The first Final Map is for homes at the end of Brushwood Drive. These are located on or near a fault identified by the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology.
- The County Engineer did not respond to a report sent by two geologists describing the fault hazard and fault evidence in the area.
- The developer is NNV-1 Partners (Michael Barnes). The builder is Toll Brothers.
The convenient access for hikers to the Steamboat Hills is mostly closed off.
Washoe Residents for Appropriate Planning 
That is a disgusting abuse of power and misuse of county land. I sincerely hope they run into so many issues that they’re forced to abandon the project entirely.
LikeLike
So difficult to watch this travesty unfold. Steve, once again, thank you for all your diligent efforts to hold WCC and Ascente to account. I wish there was more we could do.
LikeLike
I’ve worked in a lot of jurisdictions including Clark Co. but nothing in Washoe. I am concerned that Toll (and the County) follows through with making Brushwood an emergency gate as stated in the 2017 plans that were approved. Is it worth sending a neighborhood letter to reinforce that condition to the County? And if not now, would it be helpful later? Thx.
LikeLike
The Planning Commission and the County Commission have proven themselves immune from community concerns. My suggestion is to see if they uphold the Brushwood exit with an emergency gate. If not, a couple of residents should speak out during public comment at the county commission meeting. My impression is that they are quite aware of the requirement to seal off Brushwood except for emergency access.
LikeLike