Genoans want to bury power lines

Inspired to come up with tangible improvements to the town Genoans are beginning work on a plan to bury downtown power lines and install historic streetlights.

"We have the ugliest downtown in the Valley," resident Ron Funk said of the cats cradle of power lines crossing above the town. "In order to attract people we have to be an attractive town."

Ann Funk pointed out that the town doesn't have to bury all the power lines.

"At least we can have a place to begin," she said. "We should start where the ugliness is most apparent, right at Nixon and Genoa Lane."

Genoans participated in an exercise to update their strategic plan on Tuesday night.

A group was formed to work on a plan to bury the power lines and install street lights of a historical design in a project similar to that recently completed by Gardnerville.

Ann Funk said burying the power lines would enhance the historical nature of the town.

Resident Bill Brooks said that under state law the town is responsible for six services, including street lights, streets, drainage, town buildings, parks and recreation.

"You have to have something to see, feel and touch," Brooks said.

Brooks said that if the town were to seek stimulus money for the project, it would have to be shovel ready within 12 weeks.

Town board member Jen King said she felt having street lights and flower pots would enhance the appearance of the town.

Town board member Dave Whitgob praised town businesses for their efforts to beautify the town.

"But not all the residents do," he said. "We should have an outreach program. There's no reason we can't help them come up to a higher standard."

Board member Greg Pace suggested the town dedicate some space at the front of the town hall for a visitor's center.

Town businesswoman Dianna Borges encouraged the town to seek visitors from larger population areas.

"People from Minden and Gardnerville don't spend their money here," she said. "There's not enough money being spent to tell people that we're here. We need to focus money on outside the area."

Whitgob said the town is too dependent on Candy Dance for its survival.

"We need to start building a warchest, so we can set aside enough money to survive if Candy Dance is rained out."

Brooks pointed out that 73 percent of the town's revenue comes from Candy Dance, but only 6 percent from sales tax.

Cooperative Extension Educator Steve Lewis who facilitated the strategic planning session said Genoa residents are involved in their community.

"More than any place else, Genoa is engaged in its community," he said.