Candidates for Washoe County Commission 1st District highlight their differences during debate

INCLINE VILLAGE, Calif. – Washoe County Commission 1st District candidates Marsha Berkbigler and Alexis Hill discussed the issues Aug. 15 at an Incline Village Crystal Bay Community Forum in conjunction with the Incline Village Crystal Bay Community Business Association.

Opening statements

In her opening remarks, Berkbigler emphasized her belief in government accountability, fiscal responsibility and the need for better services for seniors in Incline Village.

“That’s my opinion,” Berkbigler said. “I believe that government should use our … hard-earned money for services to voters, period, and nothing else. I believe those services benefit voters in many different ways … But regardless, those tax dollars are yours … That’s your money. And you should have a say in how it’s done.”

Berkbigler emphasized transparency, honesty and responsiveness to the needs of the electorate.

“I think commissioners have to support and respect the concerns of everyone, not just those who share their views,” Berkbigler said. “In other words, if you’re a commissioner, you have to look at the issues in the broadest sense and pursue those issues in the broadest sense.”

“And I would just note that some of the current commissioners … are not meeting those standards,” Berkbigler said. “…and I think that’s something we need to take into account as citizens of Washoe County.”

Berkbigler served as county commissioner from 2013 to 2021 before being ousted by Hill.

“So let me tell you what you need to know about me,” Berkbigler said. “I’m honest. I’m direct. I have no hidden agendas. I don’t play games with anyone. I’m completely serious. I have integrity. I’m completely honest. And I’m completely transparent.”

In her opening remarks, Hill highlighted her experience in public service, particularly in urban planning and community development.

“I think about the decisions of today and how they will affect us tomorrow,” Hill said. “Because as a politician, as an elected official, that is a sacred duty. And it is a duty that also means you have to make difficult decisions. You have to make difficult decisions for the community. And I take that very seriously.”

She spoke about her work on public transit, workforce housing and fire protection in Incline Village, and emphasized the importance of investing in community infrastructure and services.

“I’m a strong advocate of sustainability and conservation,” Hill said. “And I continue to look at how I can support you in fire prevention… making sure that public safety is ensured on our roads. That our sheriff’s office feels supported.”

Hill is the current chairman of the Board of County Commissioners and represents Incline Village.

“And I can’t wait to continue the journey with all of you,” Hill said. “I pride myself on being transparent, listening to community members and making difficult decisions.”

After the opening speeches, members of the forum and business associations selected questions from the audience for the candidates to answer.

Public Services

The debate centered on public services in Incline Village. Berkbigler criticized the current commissioners for failing to meet standards, particularly in fire safety and evacuation plans. Hill defended the county’s investments in transportation, fire protection and housing, but acknowledged there is still room for improvement.

District budget

Berkbigler called Washoe County’s $1.16 billion budget excessive and criticized spending on the CARES campus versus senior services. Hill supported the budget, emphasizing the county’s responsibility to address homelessness and the economic benefits of its investments.

Zoning and development

Berkbigler expressed concern about the rezoning of areas in Incline Village for expensive condominiums, arguing that it would harm the community.

Since Hill became commissioner, Berkbigler said changes have been made to the zoning plan to allow for commercial and worker housing, which have been replaced by expensive small condominiums.

“But of course, the zoning change now allows people with a lot of money to come on Main Street and buy up the offices or whatever is on Main Street. It’s called (Incline Village Special) Area 1,” Berkbigler said. “By the way, that doesn’t do this community any good. In fact, it hurts it in the long run.”

Hill said the board has invested in the Washoe-Tahoe transportation plan, the Main Street program, fire prevention measures and an evacuation plan.

“I think Washoe County has invested more in Washoe County in the last four years than ever before,” Hill said. “And I’ve heard that from many community members who are very excited about our investments.”

Controversial topics

The candidates had differing views on Incline Village’s tax levies and whether the area receives its fair share of tax revenue. Hill argued that Incline Village’s higher property taxes subsidize other parts of the county, while Berkbigler pointed out that those taxes benefit the local community.

The proposed mobility hub at the site of the old elementary school was discussed. Berkbigler opposed the location, citing traffic and safety concerns, while Hill supported it, emphasizing the benefits of public transit and reduced traffic.

Both candidates spoke about the importance of certifying election results. Berkbigler questioned the legality of forcing elected officials to certify election results, while Hill emphasized the need to adhere to the rule of law to maintain confidence in the electoral process.

Closing words

In her closing remarks, Berkbigler reiterated her commitment to transparency, honesty and respect for the will of the voters. She criticized the current Commission’s internal conflicts and lack of effective leadership.

“I believe that the chair of a committee, the chair of a commission, should be respectful to every other commissioner because each of those commissioners has the same authority and the same rights as the chair,” Berkbigler said. “It’s not the chair’s job to scrutinize what they’re doing, interfere with what they’re saying, or try to preach the law to them. And that’s the kind of thing that you’ve seen for the last two, a little over two years, since Ms. Hill has been chair.”

Hill expressed pride in her work and commitment to the community, emphasizing her collaborative approach and dedication to tackling challenges such as housing, public safety and transportation.

“I believe that when we work together, we can solve problems,” Hill said. “And I think in the three and a half years that I’ve taken over as county commissioner, we’ve done so much for our vulnerable populations. We’ve done so much work to connect communities with trails, connect communities with multimodal infrastructure, invest in communities and meet you where you are, on the ground.”

None of the questions addressed campaign donors or donation amounts. According to donation and expenditure reports filed with Secretary of State Francisco V. Aguilar’s office for the first two reporting periods, Hill received $158,191.65 and Berkbigler received $13,400.

According to the reports, Hill’s fund balance at the end of the period was $227,232.65 and Berkbigler’s fund balance was $3,837.88.