There is already too much development and traffic in the area.

I support this proposal for a change in zoning.

Further, I strongly agree with Alex Coleman's statements.

Property owners should be able to utilize their land within the legal framework of the county, state, and federal statutes.

A ski area in the Ruby Mountains would provide greater access to outdoor recreation while preserving the beauty. Plus, it would encourage Elko County residents to spend those ski/snowboard dollars in Elko County instead of taking them to neighboring states and potentially even enticing out-of-state dollars to come into Elko County. I have three young children, and my family spends thousands of dollars annually skiing in neighboring California. We'd much rather drive a half hour down the road, spend that money in our home county, and employ our neighbors at a local ski area.

Finally, in a county and region of the country where a significant portion of the people are employed and revenue is generated from natural resource production (i.e., mining) it is astonishingly hypocritical for that population base that frequently laments a not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) sentiment by society when it comes to natural resource production to take a NIMBY stance on this project. Especially when this project would benefit outdoor enthusiasts, generate additional revenue for all businesses in Elko County, and likely increase the property values of its residents.

I urge the Elko County Planning Commission and Elko County residents to support this zoning change.

Say no to rezoning. The Ruby Mountains are too special to allow development. The value to wildlife is much more important than developers making money on a valued landscape. Keep the Ruby Mountains open space.

I support this proposal for several reasons.

First, I believe in the importance of private property rights. Property owners should be able to utilize their land within the framework of Elko County’s rules and codes. The opportunity to purchase this property was available to everyone, including Elko County, the Forest Service, and private citizens. The current owner should be allowed to develop the property as they see fit, provided they follow the county processes.

Elko County is in dire need of developed recreational opportunities, particularly a ski area. My father and grandfather played key roles in developing the Elko Snobowl, which was created to make skiing accessible for local families, reducing the need to travel to Reno or Salt Lake City. Having spent my entire adult life in the ski industry, including work as a professional ski patroller, I deeply value the opportunities skiing offers. Elko is my home, and I want to enhance my children's winter experiences here.

A ski area in the Ruby Mountains would provide greater access to outdoor recreation while preserving the natural beauty we cherish. Ski areas can be developed sustainably, with minimal environmental impact, as demonstrated throughout the western U.S.

I urge you to support this zoning change to expand recreational opportunities while safeguarding private property rights.