Carson City top stories

n Carson City freeway construction starts Oct. 15. After what some claim is nearly 50 years of planning, Gov. Kenny Guinn's announcement of intentions to complete the long-awaited freeway project turned frustration into action for the city.

n City hires new city manager. Following the January departure of City Manager John Berkich, city and community leaders began a recruitment process that ended in the hiring of Elko City Manager Linda Ritter. Ritter started in June and was recently given a favorable six-month review.

n City sues Bureau of Land Management for auctioning Douglas County land. The city ended a tumultuous year with its neighbors to the south by dropping its lawsuit filed in July to stop the sale of BLM land in Douglas County. After spending $450,000 to sue the BLM, the city dropped the suit after signing an agreement with Carson auto dealers who purchased the land.

n Auto dealers sign agreement to put auto mall in city. The city signed an agreement with Michael Hohl and Dink Cryer to pursue developing an auto mall in city limits. The deal protects a prime tax revenue source for the city by banning the development of an auto mall across its border for up to two years.

n Ormsby House possible demolition. On Sept. 26, owner Don Lehr and his partner Allan Fiegehen filed an application with the city to demolish the hotel and casino on Carson Street after becoming frustrated with city codes and requirements. The partners were in the midst of a $20 million renovation project to turn the building into a five-star establishment.

n Jon Plank memorialized. On Jan. 3, hundreds of residents and city officials came out to remember Plank who died suddenly from complications of pneumonia in December. His memory has since been honored with ceremonial tree plantings and dedications throughout the city.