As of today, my daughter remains in ICU, but with a positive prognosis. I would also like to express my admiration and appreciation to the doctors and nurses who serve this community so well at the UMC trauma center. This is just another reminder that public safety is not only the responsibility of government agencies, but individuals. I can’t express strongly enough the importance of wearing your seatbelts. 

EASTER EGG HUNT
Join Councilman Steve Ross for an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 15, 2006 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The event will be held at Children’s Memorial Park on Gowan & Torrey Pines. The Easter Bunny will be joining us and available for pictures (free). There will also be lots of fun for families including music, jump houses, face painters and balloon artists. The admission is free.  Come out and enjoy hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn, water and punch (while supplies last).  The egg hunts will be as follows:

Ages 1 to 4 - 10 a.m.
Ages 5 to 8 - 11 a.m.
Ages 9 to 13 - Noon

ANN ROAD IMPROVEMENTS UPDATE
The Ann Road improvements are on schedule to be completed by the end of April. The developer is currently completing the grading and will begin to pave the north side of Ann Road and Buffalo Drive around April 12, 2006. The next step is to install the new median (center lane of Ann Road) and then repave the intersection of Ann Road and Centennial Center Boulevard.  The signal modifications are planned for April 20 through April 28, with the final pavement markings being done by May 1. This is great news for all of the residents that have been patient with the construction delays in this area.

SIERRA OESTE NEIGHBORHOOD STREETLIGHT IMPROVEMENTS
The city of Las Vegas Public Works Department crews will soon be working to upgrade the streetlights in your neighborhood at these locations:

• Yerba Lane between Lirio Way and Arpa Way\
• Ilanos Lane between Lirio Way and Arpa Way
• Bellotta Drive between Lirio Way and Arpa Way
• Lirio Way between between Bellota Drive and Yerba Lane
• Arpa Way between Bellota Drive and Yerba Lane

Construction is scheduled to start in early April and will take approximately six weeks to complete. Work will approximately take place between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Some weekend work may also be required. No road or driveway closures are anticipated although there may be some temporary disruptions to parking. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Tom Azbill, Senior Field Electrician, Traffic Engineering Field Operations at 229-4727.

TRAFFIC HOTLINE
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has another tool for residents to address traffic issues in Las Vegas. With the increase in traffic, there comes a need to be able to report specific areas that have concerns. The Police Department has a traffic hotline for residents to report traffic problems such as speeding, running stop signs, not adhering to school traffic zones and other traffic impediments. The hotline number is 229-2677. 

GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT -  MOCASSIN & FORT APACHE
The city of Las Vegas is currently working on a general plan amendment to rezone the BLM parcel of land between Iron Mountain/Moccasin Road and Fort Apache/El Capitan. This project creates a master zoning plan for the 160-acre site. The current zoning allows for PCD, which includes all types of commercial, public use and could also include higher density residential uses. The Clark County School District has an already approved BLM reservation on the site for a 40-acre high school and has had that reservation for several years. The new proposal would eliminate the potential for all commercial on this site by adding public facilities for parks, trails and open space. There would also be three areas designated for residential development.

Many residents have heard about the possibility that 20 acres of this parcel may be used for a workforce housing project. The only item in reference to this project that has been approved by the City Council is an exclusive negotiating agreement with the Tapestry Group to provide a proposal. The current proposal will be for working families. This will not be section 8 housing or a public housing project. There are no tax dollars associated with this development. This proposal will include standards such as having to meet minimum and maximum salary ranges.  The specifics on this proposed development have not been finalized as of yet. 

It is anticipated that this zoning would be compatible to the area. This land use proposal will have similar land uses (except commercial) as proposed by adjacent Kyle Canyon development, which includes higher residential uses and commercial. The initial proposal includes the 40-acre high school site; ML density designations up to 8/units acre (the same designation to the south of Log Cabin) and MLA (up to 12 units per acre); buffered with L density projects (up to 5.5 acres); a fire station; a park; massive electrical lines and the Tonapah Railroad Trail.

CITY OF LAS VEGAS IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ‘PARENTS AS LEARNING SUPPORT’ GRANTS’ OF UP TO $8,000
The city of Las Vegas is accepting applications until Friday, May 5, for Parents as Learning Support grants (PALS grants) that range from $1,500 to $8,000. Parents who have ideas for programs that will enhance their children’s education can apply for the PALS grants to help fund the programs. The grants are intended to enhance the learning environment and process for students, by cultivating partnerships between parents and schools. To qualify for the grants, applicants must be affiliated with an established parent or school organization located in the Las Vegas city limits. 

Last year, 13 elementary schools participated in the PALS program. Grants totaling $140,000 leveraged a match of close to $1.8 million in parental participation for 70 projects including: sports activities, obesity prevention, computer training, parenting classes, homework clubs and reading clubs. Applications for PALS Grants are available on the city of Las Vegas Web site or in the Neighborhood Services Department, located on the second floor of City Hall at 400 Stewart Avenue. Residents may call 229-5267 for more information.

SPRING MOUNTAIN NATIONAL RECREATION AREA – MIDDLE KYLE CANYON COMPLEX OPEN HOUSE
In 2004, Spring Mountains National Recreation Area (NRA) began developing a vision for a new visitor complex in Middle Kyle Canyon. Public input has guided this process every step of the way and the planning team needs to hear from you.  Staff will be available to hear your opinions, answer your questions and have maps, photos and other displays available.

Wednesday, April 12, 6 to 9 p.m.  
Pecos Room, Santa Fe Station Casino, U.S. 95 at Rancho

Thursday, April 13, 6 to 9 p.m.  
Sahara West Public Library, 9600 West Sahara

U.S. MILITARY TO DETONATE 700 TONS OF EXPLOSIVES
The U.S. military plans to detonate a 700 ton explosive charge in a test called "Divine Strake" that will send a mushroom cloud over Las Vegas. This will be the largest single explosion in years. The test is part of the U.S. effort to develop weapons capable of destroying deeply buried bunkers housing nuclear, chemical or biological weapons. The aim is to measure the effect of the blast on hard granite structures. The test is scheduled for the first week of June at the Nevada test range.

NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING
Developer Meeting:  Centennial Parkway/Thom
Monday, April 10, 2006
7 to 8 p.m.
Durango Hills Community Center (YMCA)
3521 N. Durango (Durango/Gowan)

The developer has scheduled a meeting to discuss a proposal by Richmond American Homes to develop 39 homes on the vacant property 4.39 acres located on the northwest corner of Centennial Pkwy and Thom Blvd. The developer will be available to hear comments and your input in creating a community that will be an asset to the area while complementing your existing neighborhood.

NEW PROJECT TO BOOST COMPUTER SECURITY                   
The formation of a collaborative effort by multiple state and local government agencies is designed to increase the ability to continue operating vital computer systems in the event of an emergency is underway. The Nevada Shared Information Technologies Services project (NSITS) is one of the first of its kind in the nation, and could become a model for other projects across the United States.

The NSITS project will allow government entities and agencies to utilize shared-use facilities.  Today, many individual government computer facilities and systems are only able to provide basic backup and systems recovery technology, leaving them and the notable amount of information contained within these systems vulnerable or unavailable in a disaster. Four agencies are currently involved with the project—state of Nevada, Clark County, city of Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Ultimately, other public-sector entities within the state will be invited to participate in the state-of-the-art project.

A feasibility study examining implementation alternatives will soon be commissioned, the results of which are expected by September 2006. Following the findings of the study, NSITS partners will continue planning and budgeting to bring the project to fruition.

                                                            
CITY OF LAS VEGAS ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR SOUTHERN NEVADA YOUTH IMPACT AWARDS
The city of Las Vegas and the Volunteer Center of Southern Nevada are accepting nominations until Friday, April 14, for the Southern Nevada Youth Impact Awards. Youth whose actions have had a positive impact on the community will be recognized at a special National Youth Service Day event on Saturday, April 23. The awards are intended to recognize youth who have made a positive impact through community service. 

Two youth will be selected as winners in each of the following categories:
• Elementary school students, ages 5 to 11
• Middle school students, ages 12 to 14
• High school students, ages 15 to 18
• College students or young adults, ages 18 to 24
Winners will be selected based on the following criteria:
• Involvement in the initiation and planning of the volunteer project.
• Participation in project implementation and monitoring.
• Relevance in the project meeting the needs of the community.
• Degree of achievement for project goals and objectives.
• Nominated activities must be unpaid.
• Nominated activities must have occurred within the past year.

Nomination forms for the Southern Nevada Youth Impact Awards are available on the city of Las Vegas Web site or in the Neighborhood Services Department, located on the second floor of City Hall at 400 Stewart Avenue. Residents may call 229-5267 for more information.

COMMUNITY EVENT – CELTIC HERITAGE CELEBRATION
Celtic Heritage will be holding the Las Vegas Celtic Gathering and Highland Games on April 8 and April 9 at Floyd Lamb State Park.  The events start at noon and include athletic dancing, piping competitions, kid games, entertainment, culture and ethnic food.  This is great fun for the entire family.  The event begins at noon.  Come join Councilman Ross for these great festivities and an opportunity to learn more about Celtic heritage.

PLANNING COMMISSION – APRIL 13, 2006
ITEMS OF INTERESTS

Applicant Pardee Homes, LLC - Elkhorn/Fort Apache
ZON-12098 - - REZONING  -  PUBLIC HEARING - Request for a Rezoning FROM: U (Undeveloped) Zone [L (Low Density Residential) - Town Center Land Use Designation] TO: TC (Town Center) zone, on 15.91 acres adjacent to the southwest corner of Elkhorn Road and Fort Apache Road
SDR-12103 - SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW - Request FOR A SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW AND A WAIVER OF TOWN CENTER STREET DESIGN STANDARDS FOR A PROPOSED 116 UNIT RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION on 20.14 acres adjacent to the southwest corner of Elkhorn Road and Fort Apache Road 

Applicant Pardee Homes, LLC - Tee Pee Lane/Dorrell
ZON-12107 - REZONING - PUBLIC HEARING - APPLICANT/OWNER: PARDEE HOMES LLC  Request for a Rezoning FROM: U (UNDEVELOPED) ZONE L (LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL) – [TOWN CENTER LAND USE DESIGNATION] TO: TC (TOWN CENTER) Zone, on 1.26 acres adjacent to the northeast corner of Tee Pee Lane and Dorrell Lane  

SDR-12110 - SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW RELATED - PUBLIC HEARING - Request for a Site Development Plan Review FOR A PROPOSED SIX UNIT RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION AND A WAIVER OF TOWN CENTER STREETSCAPE DESIGN STANDARDS on 1.26 acres adjacent to the northeast corner of Tee Pee Lane and Dorrell Lane 

Applicant Pardee Homes, LLC – Tee Pee Lane/Deer Springs
ZON-12108 - REZONING - PUBLIC HEARING - Request for a Rezoning FROM: U (UNDEVELOPED) ZONE L (LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL) –TO: TC (TOWN CENTER) on 5.06 acres  at the southeast corner of Tee Pee Lane and Deer Springs Way

SDR-12111 - SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW - PUBLIC HEARING - Request for a Site Development Plan Review FOR A 24 UNIT SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT AND A WAIVER OF TOWN CENTER STREETSCAPE DESIGN STANDARDS on 5.06 acres at the southeast corner of Tee Pee Lane and Deer Springs Way

Richmond American Homes- Centennial/Thom
ZON-12118 - REZONING - PUBLIC HEARING  -  Request for a Rezoning FROM: R-E (RESIDENCE ESTATES) TO: R-PD7 (RESIDENTIAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT - 7 UNITS PER ACRE) on 4.39 acres at the northwest corner of Centennial Parkway and Thom Boulevard

VAR-12121 - VARIANCE RELATED TO ZON-12118 - PUBLIC HEARING - Request FOR A Variance TO ALLOW A PROPOSED SUBDIVISION ON 4.39 ACRES WHERE 5.0 ACRES IS THE MINIMUM REQUIRED on property located at the northwest corner of Centennial Parkway and Thom Boulevard

SDR-12120 - SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW RELATED TO ZON-12118 AND VAR-12121 - PUBLIC HEARING - Request for a Site Development Plan Review for A PROPOSED 39 UNIT SINGLE FAMILY SUBDIVISION on 4.39 acres at the northwest corner of Centennial Parkway and Thom Boulevard

Applicant: Timothy Neal – Sensation Spas
VAR-11904 - VARIANCE - PUBLIC HEARING - APPLICANT: TIMOTHY NEAL - OWNER: DAVID MADDOX - Request for a Variance TO ALLOW 11 PARKING SPACES WHERE 33 SPACES ARE REQUIRED AND TO ALLOW NO LOADING ZONING WHERE ONE IS REQUIRED FOR A PROPOSED COMMERCIAL BUILDING on 0.49 acres at 3340 North Rancho Drive 

VAR-11981 - VARIANCE RELATED TO VAR-11904 - PUBLIC HEARING - APPLICANT: TIMOTHY NEAL - OWNER: DAVID MADDOX - Request for a Variance TO ALLOW A PROPOSED COMMERCIAL BUILDING TO BE FIVE FEET FROM THE SIDE PROPERTY LINE WHERE 10 FEET IS THE MINIMUM SETBACK REQUIRED AND THREE FEET FROM THE REAR PROPERTY LINE WHERE 20 FEET IS THE MINIMUM SETBACK REQUIRED on 0.49 acres at 3340 North Rancho Drive

SDR-11902 - SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW RELATED TO VAR-11904 AND VAR-11981 - PUBLIC HEARING - OWNER: DAVID MADDOX - Request for a Site Development Plan Review FOR A PROPOSED 9,571 SQUARE FOOT COMMERCIAL BUILDING AND A WAIVER OF THE PERIMETER AND PARKING LOT LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS on 0.49 acres at 3340 North Rancho Drive

Mini-Warehouse Tee Pee/Oso Blanco
SUP-12090 - PUBLIC HEARING - SPECIAL USE  -  APPLICANT:  WESTAR PROPERTIES - OWNER: NMG CAPITAL PARTNERS I, LLC  -  Request for a Special Use Permit FOR A PROPOSED MINI-WAREHOUSE FACILITY AND A WAIVER OF THE PERIMETER LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS on 3.92 acres at the northwest corner of Tee Pee Lane and Oso Blanca Road

SDR- 12087 - PUBLIC HEARING - SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW RELATED TO SUP-12090  -  APPLICANT:  WESTAR PROPERTIES - OWNER: NMG CAPITAL PARTNERS I, LLC  -  Request for a Site Development Plan Review FOR A PROPOSED 103,050 SQUARE FOOT MINI-WAREHOUSE FACILITY AND A WAIVER OF THE PERIMETER LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS on 3.92 acres at the northwest corner of Tee Pee Lane and Oso Blanca Road

Sky Pointe Drive
SDR-12085 - SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW - PUBLIC HEARING - APPLICANT/OWNER: SKY POINTE INVESTMENTS, LLC - Request for a Site Development Plan Review FOR A 12,129 SQUARE FOOT RETAIL BUILDING on 1.59 acres located east of Sky Pointe Drive, approximately 210 feet south of Cimarron Road

Lamar Advertising
RQR-12174  -  REQUIRED TWO YEAR REVIEW  -  PUBLIC HEARING  -  APPLICANT: LAMAR OUTDOOR ADVERTISING - OWNER: JERMAC  -  Required Two Year Review OF AN APPROVED SPECIAL USE PERMIT WHICH ALLOWED TWO 40-FOOT HIGH, 14-FOOT BY 48-FOOT OFF-PREMISE ADVERTISING (BILLBOARD) SIGNS on property adjacent to the northeast corner of Vegas Drive and I-515

WARD 6 - BREAKFAST MEETINGS
If you are interested in having breakfast with Councilman Ross to share your thoughts about community issues, please call 229-6154.