Nye County Water District forms committee to study undevelopable "utility-challenged" lots in Pahrump

The Nye County Water District Governing Board on Aug. 12 voted unanimously to form a working group to identify and evaluate challenges associated with undevelopable lots in Pahrump and to recommend courses of action.

The board approved a motion naming Helene Williams and Michael Locke as the two board members to serve on the committee. The manager will select five members of the public from submitted applications; the committee will meet at the district office and report its findings to the board and, if approved, to the Nye County Board of Commissioners. The motion directed that if the committee needs resources beyond staff capacity, it may request district funds, subject to subsequent board approval.

Board members and public commenters discussed terminology. Several participants said “zombie lots” is a misleading, colloquial term. Board members and commenters suggested alternative labels such as “utility‑challenged” or “undeveloped” lots; the board said the committee may recommend formal terminology.

Members noted the committee’s work will be research‑heavy: inventorying lots, ownership, proximity to utilities, water-right availability, sewer options and legal constraints. The manager told the board he will accept applications from the public (an application form is posted in the meeting backup) and will make selections to create a committee of community stakeholders.

Why it matters: Nye County contains many parcels developed on paper in earlier booms that lack affordable access to water, sewer or other utilities. The committee will assemble facts and options so the county and board can consider policy responses that balance property rights with long‑term resource limits.

Next steps: The manager will select public members and schedule committee meetings at the district office. The committee will compile findings and proposed options for the board’s review and eventual submittal to county commissioners.

Additional detail: The board indicated available budget lines can cover minor committee expenses, but any substantial professional services will require a separate board vote.