News | May 5
editor@tahoedailytribune.com
– The South Lake Tahoe City Council will be holding a meeting on Tuesday
City Council meetings are held in person at 1901 Lisa Maloff Way. Meetings are live-streamed on Channel 21, City website at http://www.cityofslt.us, and YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3LYne8Ih-kTPLnnuyJW9SQ/live
Levy of Assessment for Ski Run Business Improvement District for Business License Year 2025/2026
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: Pass a Resolution confirming the Ski Run Business Improvement District annual report and levying the assessment for business license year 2025/2026
Ordinance Amending Vacation Home Rental Regulations Outside Tourist Core (First Reading) and Urgency Ordinance Extending Temporary Moratorium on Issuance of Vacation Home Rental Permits in Areas Where Permits Were Prohibited by Measure T
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: (1) Pass a Motion to hold a first reading (by title only) of an Ordinance Amending Article V (Vacation Home Rentals) of Chapter 3.50 (Transient Lodging) and Table 2.35.070 (Appealable Actions and Matters) of the South Lake Tahoe City Code to Modify the Regulation of Vacation Home Rentals Located Outside the Tourist Core Area Plan
and refer second reading and adoption to the May 20
2025 meeting; and (2) Pass an Urgency Ordinance Extending a Temporary Moratorium on the Issuance of Vacation Home Rental Permits in Areas Where Permits Were Prohibited by Measure T
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: Pass a Motion adopting the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan
License with Mary Johnson McCall for Use of Bijou Golf Course Parking Lot
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: Pass a Resolution authorizing and directing the Mayor to execute a license agreement with Mary Johnson McCall to use the parking lot at Bijou Golf Course located at Fairway Drive for an annual payment of $30,000 to lease the parking lot from May 1 through October 31 each year of 2025 through 2027
and appropriating $4,645 from General Funds Undesignated Excess Revenues into the Golf Course account 100-04110-43041 Rental of Land & Buildings.
Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.05.170 (Permits to Reserve Portions of Park) of the South Lake Tahoe City Code to Establish a Commercial Use Permit (First Reading)
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: 1) Pass a Motion to hold a first reading (by title only) of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.05.170 (Permits to Reserve Portions of Park) establishing a permit for commercial use purposes and refer to second reading and adoption to May 20
CEQA Determination: This ordinance is categorically exempt under CEQA Guidelines sections 15301 (existing facilities) and 15323 (normal operation of facilities for public gatherings)
Stateline Transit Center Parking Enforcement Authorization Ordinance (First Reading)
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: 1) Pass a Motion to hold a first reading (by title only) of an Ordinance amending Article VII of Chapter 4.25 of the South Lake Tahoe City Code to add Section 4.25.607 authorizing City Council
and regulations at municipal off-street parking facilities and refer to a second reading and adoption to the May 6
2) Pass a Resolution establishing parking prohibitions
and regulations for the Stateline Transit Center
Pioneer Trail Pedestrian Improvement Project Phase II: Construction Contract with B&M Civil LLC
Amendment to Agreement with CDM Smith for Engineering Services During Construction
and Accepting and Appropriating Grant Funding
Requested Action / Suggested Motions: Either: (1) Pass a Resolution: a) Authorizing and directing the Mayor to execute Construction Contract with B&M Civil LLC for $6,344,383
plus a 10% Construction Contingency of $634,436; b) Authorizing and directing the Mayor to execute Amendment No
6 to Agreement with CDM Smith for Engineering Services During Construction for an additional amount of $54,983.67 and a total amount not to exceed $615,396.39; c) Accepting and Appropriating grant funding of $1.2 million from Active Transportation Program
$1,551,000 from Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality
$606,000 from Surface Transportation Block Grant
and $714,984 from South Tahoe Public Utilities for In Lieu Fees; d) Transferring $1,050,000 of Measure S Undesignated Reserves and $915,898 from SB-1 funds; and e) Transferring $481,732 from James and Eloise Drainage Project; or (2) Pass a Motion to reject all bids and direct staff to re-bid the construction contract
See the full agenda here.
The Tahoe Transportation District will be meeting Wednesday
The meeting can be attended in person at 128 Market St., Stateline, Nev. or remotely https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4525786008528114783.
TAHOE TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT (TTD) BUSINESS ITEMS
and Possible Approval of theProposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget and Work Program
and Approve Agreement ForvServices as Executive Director Between the Tahoe Transportation Districtvand James Marino
TAHOE TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION (TTC) BUSINESS ITEMS
For Possible Action: Conduct a Public Hearing and Recommend Approval of the 2025 Federal Transportation Improvement Program Amendment No
2 to the Tahoe Metropolitan Planning Organization Governing Board
For Possible Action: Conduct a Public Hearing to Solicit Public Comments on the Draft Connections 2050: 2025 Regional Transportation Plan
See the full agenda here.
Incline Village General Improvement District
The Incline Village General Improvement District is holding a meeting on Wednesday, May 7 at 6 p.m. The meeting can be viewed in person at 893 Southwood Blvd. Incline Village or remotely at https://livestream.com/accounts/3411104
SUBJECT: District General Manager Budget Report – Fiscal Year 2025-26; Review
Discuss and provide Feedback to the District General Manager regarding the Board of Trustees questions provided to the District General Manager following the first Budget Workshop and incorporated reorganization
(Requesting Staff Member: District General Manager Robert Harrison) Recommendation for Action: That the Board of Trustees provide Feedback and Direction to the District General Manager on the Set of Questions presented
SUBJECT: Budget Workshop Presentation – Fiscal Year 2025–26 – Presentation by the Facilities; Marketing and Communications; Food and Beverage teams regarding their Budgets with Discussion and possible Feedback from the Board of Trustees (Requesting Staff Member: Diamond Peak General Manager Mike Bandelin)
Recommendation for Action: That the Board of Trustees provide feedback to Staff on the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budgets for Facilities
SUBJECT: Budget Workshop Presentation – Fiscal Year 2025-26 – Review
Discuss and possibly Adopt proposed Changes to Policy 7.1.0 – Budgeting and Fiscal Management
2022; Policy 18.1.0 – Budgeting and Fiscal Management
Adoption of Central Service Cost Allocation Plan
2022; Policy 21.1.0 – Purchasing Policy for Goods and Services
2024; and Policy 21.2.0 – Purchasing Policy for Public Works Contracts – Effective February 14
2024 (Requesting Staff Member: Director of Finance Jessica O’Connell)
Recommendation for Action: That the Board of Trustees make a Motion to Adopt the proposed Changes to Policy 7.1.0 – Budgeting and Fiscal Management
Appropriate Level of Reserves; Policy 18.1.0 – Budgeting and Fiscal Management
Adoption of Central Service Cost Allocation Plan; Policy 21.1.0 – Purchasing Policy for Goods and Services; and Policy 21.2.0 – Purchasing Policy for Public Works Contracts
Discuss and Approval to reset the date and time for the Public Hearing(s) for the FY 2025/2026 Budget and Recreation Roll for Friday
at 12 noon (Requesting Staff Member: Director of Finance Jessica O’Connell)
Recommendation for Action: That the Board of Trustees make a Motion to reset the Date and Time for the Public Hearing(s) for the FY 2025/2026 Budget and Recreation Roll for Friday
See the full agenda here
The Lake Tahoe Unified School District Board will be meeting Thursday
The meeting can be viewed in person at 1021 Al Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe or remotely via https://www.youtube.com/c/LTUSDMeetings/videos.
Declaration of Need for 2025-26 School Year
The District is required to submit an annual declaration to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
This is a report stating the anticipated number of subject areas and emergency permits that may be needed for the 2025/26 school year
2025-26 LTUSD Administration Initial Proposal for Collective Bargaining with California School Employees’ Association (CSEA)
2025-26 California School Employees’ Association (CSEA) Initial Proposal for Collective Bargaining with LTUSD
First Reading of the March 2025 CSBA Board Policies/Administrative Regulations
See the full agenda here
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– Want to have a good time and also serve the community
take a look at the South Lake Tahoe Moose Lodge #1632 located on Eloise Avenue
The lodge is part of a nation-wide fraternal and service organization that encourages members to create life-long friendships through activities and service for the communities in which they live
the members of the Moose Lodge #1632 have been demonstrating their commitment to serving the Lake Tahoe South Shore community by sponsoring an annual Bread & Broth (B&B) Monday Meal Adopt A Day of Nourishment (AAD)
the Moose Lodge hosted the Monday Meal on April 28th along with members of the Women of the Moose
a unit of Moose International who collaborate with members of the Moose Fraternity to provide a helping hand to those in need
The Moose Lodge’s Monday Meal was a well-attended dinner where 126 dinner guests enjoyed a delicious
full-course meal and took home bags filled with healthy food to supplement meals later in the week
To help the B&B volunteers to ready the dinner service
the Moose Lodge AAD volunteer team members
eager to help the B&B volunteers perform the tasks of bagging and arranging food for the ‘giveaway’ tables
working the meal serving line from 4 to 5 p.m.
and ending their service time by helping with the meal’s takedown and cleanup
is also a Moose Lodge member who organized the AAD sponsorship and also participated in the meal service that the Moose Lodge sponsored
“Another amazing meal served by Bread & Broth,” exclaimed Kathleen
“The dinner event is so organized and everyone is so helpful.” It was great to have the Moose team provide incredible service and bring their cheerful presence while doing good work supporting the Moose International Fraternity’s annual campaign slogan of “moving forward
“The members of the Moose Lodge are honored to be a part of todays’ meal
and we want to thank you for the opportunity to serve and we will be back.” Bread & Broth is honored to be a part of the community service that the Moose Lodge is committed to giving back to the Lake Tahoe South Shore community members
News | May 3
Many thanks to the following El Dorado County programs which are made up of the staff
administrators and the ED County Board of Supervisors
The “Clean Tahoe” program has never let me down
I’ve had the need to call them several times.The dispatch office has been polite and usually there is someone to speak to
though sometimes a message must suffice and provides timely action
I live in an area where irresponsible owners
tourists and wildlife provide messes frequently.The cleanup is mostly in wooded areas and sufficiently large enough to necessitate help or otherwise I take it on myself
Thank you for helping to keep us looking clean
a special thanks also goes out to the “Adopt a Highway” program and those entities who volunteer for this program
adopted a stretch of Highway 50 near my neighborhood
our “Vector Control” department is very responsive and capable
I am hereby referring to the yellow jacket control program
especially since those of us with an allergy to bees and wasps in general
which seems to attract yellow jackets is where I currently need them
but in a previous location of more than a hundred acres
they were needed numerous times each summer
though they are line items on our property tax bills
Not all counties including some neighboring counties have such programs
These are examples of local government succeeding at what it can do to make our community better
I have never felt more betrayed… I had faith that at least three of the members of the City Council would do that which is right and just by restoring the right for ALL of the former VHR permit holders and those on the waiting list to their rightful former positions prior to the passage of the unconstitutional Measure T
If the City Council wants to reduce the number of permits by attrition after all of the above were allowed the opportunity to pick up the pieces from where they were at the time Measure T was unlawfully enacted
There is no provision in the proposed ordinance for selecting which of the former permit holders will be afforded the limited opportunity to renew their permits and what the status of the remaining ones would be
Those on the waiting list are also being shafted by this proposal
Some of them have been on that list for as long as eight years and will suffer an even greater loss than the actual permit holders
The waiting list also has a significantly different legal position than the permit holders
it was legally only suspended ostensibly until Measure T was adjudicated
While I do agree that the QVHR permits should also be restored
There is still the opportunity to correct this hastily passed
I urge the Council Members to reconsider what they are doing
News | May 2
eramos@tahoedailytribune.com
finding affordable housing is becoming increasingly difficult
even for those earning above 80% of the area median income
What does “affordable housing” actually refer to
And is there enough of it to help those who need it
Affordable is a tricky term to nail down in the housing sphere
since it’s often used to refer to something that anyone
It’s also been used to address the undue burden for most people renting and owning a home—that the combined cost for the housing payment and utilities shouldn’t make up more than 30% of the income for those paying (an uptick from the 1980s
for the context of this article and for affordable housing projects in the basin
there are two major points that qualify it as “affordable”: where residents would fall on the area median income scale (AMI) and the funding and grants that make the property affordable
Because of the limited housing stock in the Tahoe Basin
“naturally affordable” housing is few and far between
as offering housing at market-rate and above is what makes money
And the apartments and houses that could be offered at affordable prices can be variable in quality—hence why funding for new units that are guaranteed to be affordable through processes like deed restriction is so important
Affordable housing is typically defined for those at 80% AMI and below
While AMI is a Californian standard for housing
Nevada has a fairly analogous system with tiers
Property managers are required to keep track of the incomes of people living in affordable housing to ensure they qualify while they are living there
State and federal funding is what makes it possible for these affordable housing properties to stay at a below-market rate
affordable housing nets more funding than other housing projects—California especially is prioritizing housing at the lower end of the AMI spectrum
hence why so many housing advocates talk about the “missing middle.” Still
though ensuring housing at all parts of the spectrum is important—and can sometimes open up housing opportunities and availability
by companies that receive tax credits for their construction
others can be states away—making it harder for people seeking affordable housing to get in touch with the right people
Where is the affordable housing located in Tahoe
the majority of affordable housing is located in South Lake Tahoe and Truckee
El Dorado County and Placer County’s unincorporated areas don’t have any locations
though employers in the area have been responsible for providing affordable housing
which has historically been constructed in Truckee
Douglas and Washoe County both have no affordable housing in the basin
though Washoe Tahoe has acknowledged the need for it in their housing study
Though there is a need for this housing from Tahoma to Glenbrook
it’s difficult to motivate building affordable housing in some of these areas—for example
Douglas County has expressed little interest in affordable housing here
though higher-end housing appears to get priority
South Lake Tahoe’s affordable housing bears the additional burden of housing long-term employees of casinos and ski resorts
ski resorts have had to prioritize housing their employees to maintain business: signing master leases
adding housing assets to real estate holdings
and creating housing opportunities as parts of their expansion
as was recently detailed in Palisades Tahoe’s expansion
The loss of seasonal rentals to short-term vacation rentals and remote workers buying property in Tahoe have exacerbated the issue
and even with the promise of housing for new employees
During the most recent Business Walks in North and South Lake Tahoe
business owners expressed how dire the need for housing was
Employees who have to commute long distances are often less reliably able to get to work
And they’re more likely to look for work closer to where they settle down
For many interested in solving the housing problems here
there’s a major focus on providing that housing to locals
That concept is reflected in the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency’s definition of “achievable” housing
which specifies local workers or those at a particular AMI
From the current data from South Lake Tahoe’s waitlists
there appears to be a high percentage of people applying to affordable housing that are local
with recent addresses or confirmed family and friends in the area
Placer County is also considering a “local preference” program for Dollar Creek Crossing
There is a high complexity in ensuring that policies put in place aren’t discriminatory—which would disqualify these projects from getting necessary funding
which have accessible and disability-friendly supportive housing units
are more likely to draw people with those specific needs in housing
Others that were built for employee housing require working locally within a specific boundary to be considered
which may make some more likely to have locals than not
Because many of the affordable housing properties are newer in construction than older Tahoe properties
they are typically well-maintained and more modern in their amenities
One major thing that is true for all of them is they are required to provide units that are ADA-compliant and accessible
For people with families and established jobs
it’s a tough call to leave those units
Although many use their time in affordable housing to save up for market-rate housing
the higher costs of a resort town make it more difficult to do so in a timely manner
And with a limited supply of single-family homes due to conversion to short-term rentals or vacation homes
Several property managers have reported low turnover
have had some families living there for a decade
not every property is required to keep track of waitlists and turnover
Though they’re required by the state to keep diligent paperwork on income qualifications and property maintenance
only the city of South Lake Tahoe has required the housing department to report back on waitlists and turnover
the data for many of these properties is incomplete
though the Tribune reached out to all properties to get information
It’s clear that while this housing is necessary
what currently exists isn’t enough—and isn’t enough to fulfill the housing needs in the region
Given the length of time it takes for properties to open up
it’s no wonder that people aren’t interested in vacating once they make it in
the length of time and costs for building means that these needs may continue to go unmet without the other solutions to address housing for all
Eli Ramos is a reporter for Tahoe Daily Tribune
They are part of the 2024–26 cohort of California Local News Fellows through UC Berkeley
Public Safety | May 3
Calif./Nev – Lake Tahoe fire and forestry agencies are inviting the community to Get Defensive during Lake Tahoe Wildfire Preparedness Week from May 5 through 10
The Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team (TFFT) is a partnership of local
and federal organizations helping host a week of events around the lake to kick off a summer of wildfire preparedness
Community members and families can meet land managers
and community leaders at local coffee shops
and more to learn how the Tahoe Basin can work together to better prepare for wildfire
• Trivia @ South Lake Brewing Company | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m
• South Lake Tahoe Library | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Noel’s Coffee & Apothecary
• El Dicho Café
South Lake Tahoe | 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
• Waterman’s Landing Coffee Shop
• Tahoma Market & Deli
• Walk and Talk @ Tahoe Paradise Park
• Tree House Café
• Clyde’s Coffee
• Cuppa Tahoe
• Freel Perk
• Drink Coffee Do Stuff
• Tahoe House Bakery
Can’t make it to an event? Visit tahoelivingwithfire.com for resources on defensible space
Tips & Tricks To Plan The Best Lake Tahoe Vacation Ever
If there’s one place that fits everyone’s needs for a destination
If you’re looking to create unforgettable memories or simply escape the everyday
South Lake Tahoe in May offers the perfect retreat
Make a reservation at a lakeside restaurant..
Where to Find Fantastic Fare and Luscious Libations in South Lake Tahoe
it’s hard to find restaurants with their own delectable niche
and you’ll see the region has indeed found..
Entertainment & Live Music in South Lake Tahoe
Looking for some live music in South Lake Tahoe
If your dream vacation includes entertainment venues and bars with live music
Protect the Awe - Learn the Rules To Lake By
Protect the Awe Let’s look out for the Lake
Lake Tahoe is mother nature showing off at her best–it’s awe and then some
Saturday, May 24, 2025: Matisyahu live in concert at Bally’s Lake Tahoe Showroom at 8:00 pm. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years of age. Ticketmaster.com
Late-Nite Productions & One Vision Entertainment present the cool conscious reggae vibes of Matisyahu live in concert
This is happening Saturday May 24th at the Bally’s Lake Tahoe Showroom
Tickets are available starting from $39.50 plus tax/fee’s at Ticketmaster.com or you can visit the Bally’s Box Office to save money on fee’s
Electric Kif from Florida will open the show
Creativity is like a fire in a fireplace: You have to tend it or it will go out
Matisyahu has kept his creative spirit aflame by evolving his sound
and testing the limits of the musical traditions that have inspired him
and its leadoff single “Fireproof” takes inspiration from a fire dream inspired by Matisyahu’s Old Testament religion
which has meant so much to his spiritual and creative life since his recording career began in 2004 and his breakout track “King Without a Crown” blasted into the Billboard charts in 2005
those same Old Testament roots springboarded Matisyahu’s music career
the young Matthew Miller followed jam bands like Phish and the Grateful Dead
he found that the messaging of Rastafarianism was sourced in part from that same Old Testament
The sound that emerged on his first albums—including his first two studio releases as well as 2005’s Gold-certified Live at Stubb’s—embraced both the spirit of reggae and his spirituality and roots in Judaism
Buoyed by hits like “King Without a Crown,” albums like the Grammy-nominated and Billboard No.1-ranked Youth in 2006
and the Gold-certified 2009 antiwar hit “One Day” (streamed over 150 million times on Spotify alone)
he toured extensively through the second half of the aughts with a high-energy stage show that has since grown to include more improvisation
All the while his music expanded into a shapeshifting collision of reggae
he continues to be inspired by evolving musical trends
finding linkages and loops between eras and genres
Matisyahu’s spirituality has evolved in parallel with his music
though his Jewish heritage remains a central theme throughout his life and music
also finds him reflecting on celebrity and artistic success
“the unbelievable and miraculous feeling of being connected to our people” is what keeps the creative fire alight
Find the best Lake Tahoe events for everyone
Make planning easy with this guide to all the must-see vistas
must-eat dishes and must-experience attractions
Receive helpful tips and updates to plan your next vacation
Tahoe Knight Monsters Hockey Playoff Games Tahoe Blue Event Center
News | Apr 24
lcarter@tahoedailytribune.com
firefighters have completed hand line (fire line constructed with hand tools) around the fire and forward progress has been stopped
USFS firefighters will remain on scene overnight with support from CAL FIRE Amador-El Dorado Unit
– Firefighters are battling a small wildfire which has grown to an acre and a half off Pioneer Trail near South Lake Tahoe
Helicopter support has been ordered for the Jicarilla Fire
With roughly one acre of growth in an hour and a half
the fire is classified as having a moderate rate of spread
The blaze is currently on both sides of Trout Creek
and agencies are installing a hose line around the perimeter of the fire to fight it
Public Affairs Officer for the US Forest Service
Herron added that there is uncertainty over whether the fire will grow
heavier winds could push the fire to expand further
Several agencies including Cal Fire Amador – El Dorado Unit
Lake Valley Fire Protection District and South Lake Tahoe are responding to the Jicarilla Fire
News | Apr 17
the multichannel off-price retailer with high-quality active and outdoor products at exceptional prices is heading to South Lake Tahoe’s South Y Center
the new store marks a significant milestone for the brand’s nationwide expansion as Sierra’s first store in California
Sierra will open its doors to the South Lake Tahoe community with a grand opening celebration on Saturday
Sierra’s Active Wagon will be stationed in front of the store stacked with 100 Sierra products that will be available to shoppers in the new store including kayaks
In addition to being one of the first to shop in store
attendees can enter the ‘Sierra Sweeps’ by taking their chance on the spin to win wheel and other games where they’ll win gift cards
one lucky winner will take home a $500 Sierra gift card by correctly guessing the height of the Active Wagon and its stack
If you miss the Active Wagon on opening day
keep an eye out around town on Sunday as it will be making stops at some of South Lake Tahoe’s iconic destinations
they’ve invited South Lake Tahoe’s very own 93.9 The Lake to join at the store
Stop by the station’s tent to enjoy live music and fun with Robin Rothschild
the DJ behind “Live at 5 with Robin” from 9 a.m
“We are thrilled to be opening our first store in California and bring our off-price shopping experience to the South Lake Tahoe community!” said Amanda Johnson
“The new store will allow residents to explore our diverse range of spring gear and apparel to make living an active lifestyle easier than ever
our goal is to provide communities with quality active and outdoor apparel
allowing shoppers to get moving in the way that suits them best.”
The store will offer a wide selection of active and outside apparel
bringing South Lake Tahoe shoppers everything needed to fully enjoy their favorite activities
The extensive product range includes light layers
and more – all from leading brands at extraordinary savings
Sierra is the go-to retailer for discovering great finds on top active and outdoor brands for the entire family at amazing savings
and gear – all available at up to 20-60% less than department and specialty store prices -Sierra is a one-stop-shop for everything you didn’t even know you needed to get active year-round
To support the local community of South Lake Tahoe
Sierra has made a $10,000 donation to non-profitorganization Live Violence Free
The donation will support Live Violence Free’s mission to empowersurvivors of domestic violence
and child abuse by providing critical services such as emergency shelter
News | Apr 28
– The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Sacramento Field Office announces the arrest of Timothy Austin Pannell
on a federal complaint for alleged distribution of fentanyl
An FBI special agent took Pannell into custody on Friday
This arrest was made possible with assistance from the South Lake Tahoe Police Department
and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office
On February 12, 2024
and the FBI responded following a 911 call reporting multiple overdoses at a residence in South Lake Tahoe
Three men and one woman were found deceased in the residence
“Frog,” allegedly sold fentanyl that he represented as cocaine to two of the men in the parking lot of a church in South Lake Tahoe
“We deeply appreciate the tireless work and dedication of our federal partners in bringing this case forward,” said District Attorney Vern Pierson
“Their resources and expertise have been invaluable in securing charges to hold Mr
Pannell accountable for the devastating loss our community has experienced.”
Pannell mistakenly supplied fentanyl – rather than the cocaine he typically sold
The DA’s office went on to state in a press release
Pannell made multiple frantic attempts to warn the victims – placing at least 17 unanswered phone calls – and later drove through the victim’s neighborhood in an unsuccessful effort to prevent harm.”
Pannell previously received a three-year prison sentence on April 9
due to credits earned through drug rehabilitation programs
The current charge against Pannell is a mere allegation
He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
The South Tahoe Public Utility District (the District) announced on April 28, 2025, it is moving forward with a wide range of capital improvement projects over summer 2025
The projects are aimed at minimizing long-term costs
protecting Lake Tahoe and delivering high-quality
wastewater and recycled water services for the community
“These projects reflect our long-term commitment to sustainability
and excellent service,” said Paul Hughes
we’re ensuring the community has safe
and environmentally responsible infrastructure for decades to come.”
To protect the clarity of Lake Tahoe and ensure the longevity of critical sewer infrastructure
the District is undertaking the following wastewater system upgrades:
To support the community’s water needs and protect public safety
several major water system improvements are planned for construction this summer:
These projects are funded through a combination of rate revenue
all designed to keep customer rates stable while meeting the region’s long-term infrastructure needs
News | May 1
– Spring is a time of transition in the mountains
Snow is melting and the USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is preparing to open national forest recreation sites in the Lake Tahoe Basin for the summer season
Before recreation sites fully open to the public
sites must be cleaned up after the snow melts
safety hazards such as dead or damaged trees must be removed
and the danger of a freeze must pass before turning on restroom water systems
trash service and restrooms are unavailable
Plan ahead and be prepared to pack out all trash
clean up after them and be sure to properly dispose of pet waste bags
National forest gate and road opening dates are determined by the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit Motor Vehicle Use Maps developed under the Forest Service Travel Management Plan
All dates are subject to change due to conditions and weather
For the latest information and updates, visit our website and follow us on Facebook and X
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8 a.m., Lake Tahoe Yoga, 290 Kingsbury Grade, Stateline. “The Svadhyaya Project is a collaborative workshop designed to help you engage in practices and learn techniques to become more aware of your self and financially responsible so that you can build wealth. Pre-registration required.” For more information, visit http://www.laketahoeyoga.com or call 775-580-7224
“Calling all South Lake Tahoe Locals
We want YOU to have a TEE-rific time at our monthly Neighbor’s Night
We appreciate your business and being a part of this amazing community
we hold a dedicated night to our neighbors on the first Thursday of every month with a tap takeover from one of your favorite local breweries
visit tipsyputt.com/tipsy-putt-tahoe or call 530-443-4376.”
“Experience virtual reality with Oculus Rift Fridays at the Zephyr Cove Library
Parental permission forms are available at the library for individuals under 18 years of age
visit library.douglascountynv.gov or call 775-588-6411.”
“Second Serving meals consist of a soup
at the Lake Tahoe Community Presbyterian Church
Dinner guests will be provided with ‘giveaway’ bags containing fruit
breads/pastries based on availability of food items
Bread & Broth serves 40-50 dinner guests each Friday evening
visit breadandbroth.org or call 916-837-4201.”
“Team up with your significant other or your bestie and join us for our First Ever Couples League at The Golf Lodge
you’ll play a different course on our state-of-the-art simulators — perfect for some friendly competition and lots of fun!The league runs from April 28 through June 16
with time slots available from either 4–6 PM or 6–8 PM
giving you plenty of flexibility to fit it into your weekend plans
visit thegolflodge.com or call 775-546-3725.”
“Magic Fusion is Lake Tahoe’s #1 rated show
It features award winning magicians from around the world in a 75 minute
family friendly show suitable for all ages
It’s located in the vibrant Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe
Come visit the restaurant/lounge before or after the show and enjoy Taste at the Loft
and enjoy award winning American Tapas and small plates
visit thelofttahoe.com or call 530-523-8024.”
“Nevada’s oldest town celebrates its Western heritage with three days packed with music
“McPs Taphouse at Stateline in South Lake Tahoe
CA has been a beer and entertainment staple for over 31 years with 40 beers on tap
We’re not just “Pub Grub” at McPs… our full restaurant offers traditional Irish dishes along with our modern California classic lighter options
“Join us Saturday & Sundays for Bubbly Brunch
Two entrees and a bottle of bubbly for ONLY $40
Enjoy one of Chef Sean’s unique and delicious brunch creations such as Chilaquiles
visit tahoecocktailcorner.com or call 530-600-2751.”
Theresa’s Bread & Broth 4 Kids is packing and sending bags of food home with food insecure school kids for weekend nourishment
Come help us provide food for the children we serve
Donate food or drop off a monetary donation to help provide weekend nourishment for food insecure school kids in the South Shore Community
1-5 p.m., Camp Richardson Resort, 1900 Jameson Beach Rd, South Lake Tahoe. “Live music with acts like The Trey Stone Band, Cash Only Band, Heavenly House Band, Arizona Jones, The Beach Cowboys, Whiskey and Wolves, Acustagruve, Winter Light Band, and Bluesberry Jam. For more information, visit http://www.camprichardsonresort.com or call 530-494-2228.”
full-course nutritional meals are served at St
the dinner guests are provided with food ‘giveaway’ bags containing canned goods
Seconds are offered and dinner to-go containers are provided
“Join us for the opening reception to Abstract Explosions
a vibrant showcase of mixed media abstract artwork by Megan Leal-Gring at BFF Tahoe
Ticket purchase & pre-registration required.”
“SMART Recovery is a fresh approach to addiction recovery
SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training
The program is for people seeking a self-empowering way to overcome addictive problems
visit elevaterehab.org/locations/lake-tahoe or call 831-440-3568
“Join us every Tuesday at 9 PM for an evening of trivia
Put your knowledge to the test while enjoying $5 Tahoe Blue cocktails and $5 pints in a fun
relaxed atmosphere.Whether you’re competing with friends or playing solo
you’ll have a chance to win fantastic prizes
It’s the perfect way to unwind and kick off the week—see you there
– The South Tahoe Public Utility District (District) Board of Directors is considering new water and sewer rates to support essential upgrades to aging infrastructure
and export to safeguard public health and protect Lake Tahoe’s delicate ecosystem
Proposed rate changes would fund the replacement of water and sewer system components that are 50 and 90 years old
“Our infrastructure is the backbone of the community,” said Paul Hughes
“Many parts of our water and sewer systems are reaching the end of their useful life
would allow us to continue replacing aging pipelines and meet rising costs for electricity
the proposed rate increase would be approximately $6.00 per month for sewer service and around $7.00 for water service
the District worked with a financial consultant to develop a 5-year financial plan to fund capital costs
The proposed rate changes are for year two of the five-year schedule
“Investing in these systems now helps us avoid costly emergency repairs in the future,” added Hughes
“It’s about protecting our environment
The Board will vote on rates on Thursday, May 15 at 2 p.m. in the District’s Board Room, located at 1275 Meadow Crest Drive, South Lake Tahoe. For more information about the proposed rate changes and the projects they will fund, visit http://www.stpud.us/capital-improvement-program
News | Apr 23
South Lake Tahoe showed its support for the environment and the planet
with celebrations at the college and South Lake Brewing
plus a cleanup with the League to Save Lake Tahoe
South Lake Brewing kicked off Earth Day celebrations with booths from the League to Save Lake Tahoe
South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD)
The brewery hosted a few sustainability talks amid music from the Annie Davidson Band
One notable booth was from Tahoe Composts—it was one of their first times with an official booth since they started out
and they now offer countertop bins and bear-safe curbside 5-gallon bins that they collect for a small subscription fee
South Lake Tahoe Earth Day hosted their festival at the community college on April 19
a Day of Action at Lakeview Commons took place
and participants marched to the Earth Day Festival
The action was inspired by the nationwide “Hands Off” protests on April 5
“We are united in our community to community
and all who inhabit it.” Continual protests and concerns have been raised regarding cuts to environmental programs and forestry services
which is primarily made up of public lands
The community college hosted vendors and booths
including representatives from the Washoe Tribe
and performances from Cirque du South Lake and a drum circle
encouraged people to protect pollinators in their gardens for spring
and invited other planet-protecting actions such as packing trash or choosing reusable and recyclable options
Keep Tahoe Blue’s 10th Annual Earth Day Cleanup
the League to Save Lake Tahoe has hosted an Earth Day community cleanup
Starting at 1001 Heavenly Village Way, volunteers donned their Keep Tahoe Blue shirts and vests to pick up trash at the tourist core. They picked up trash along the hotels and neighborhoods, the beach, and around the casinos, where much of the garbage amasses in storm drains and along the road, helping to reduce the amounts of plastics and debris that make their way into the lake. According to their website
over 111,000 pounds of litter have been removed through League events and programs
News | Apr 29
— The El Dorado County Recorder-Clerk’s Office in South Lake Tahoe will be open by appointment only on Saturday
to assist residents with requests for certified copies of vital records
one-day-only service is being offered to accommodate the increased demand for vital records in advance of the REAL ID deadline on May 7
Appointments are required for this limited availability and will be exclusively for those seeking certified copies of vital records
The Recorder-Clerk’s office urges residents to schedule an appointment in advance to ensure timely processing of their requests
The office will not be offering other services on this date
“We understand the urgency many residents face as the Real ID deadline approaches,” said Janelle Horne
“We are committed to providing this additional service to help ease the process for individuals needing vital records for their Real ID applications.”
For more information about the Real ID, please visit the Department of Motor Vehicles
A small wildfire is under investigation after sparking near South Lake Tahoe
Forward progress has been stopped on the Jicarilla Fire burning near South Lake Tahoe
A small wildfire broke out by Pioneer Trail near South Lake Tahoe
The Jicarilla Fire grew to an acre and a half before firefighters completed a hand line around the fire and stopped its progress
Forest Service firefighters remained on scene overnight
Forest Service in Lake Tahoe confirmed a small wildfire burning near South Lake Tahoe on Wednesday evening
according to a post from the Forest Service on X
It is called the Jicarilla Fire and is around a quarter of an acre
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