Northeastern Nevada Regional Development Authority celebrates 2024 Achievements at Annual Awards Luncheon

Northeastern Nevada Regional Development Authority (NNRDA) Celebrates 2024 Achievements at Annual Awards Luncheon

Elko, Nevada – February 6, 2025 — The Northeastern Nevada Regional Development Authority (NNRDA) hosted its Annual Awards Luncheon, bringing together members and stakeholders from across the region to celebrate progress, innovation, and collaboration achieved in 2024. The event featured updates from NNRDA and a formal recognition of outstanding contributions to economic development within Northeastern Nevada.

“This luncheon highlights the incredible dedication and teamwork of our regional communities and businesses,” said NNRDA Board Chair Mackenna Velez of Southwest Gas. “Each award recipient demonstrates the unwavering spirit and resilience that drive progress in our region.”

2024 Community Bullseye Award: City of West Wendover

The City of West Wendover received the prestigious 2024 Community Bullseye Award for its exceptional $7 million Downtown Infrastructure Project, a transformative endeavor that has been 20 years in the making. Led by City Manager Chris Melville, this project, funded through collaborations with entities like the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (CDBG), USDA Rural Development, and private partners such as Nevada Gold Mines, introduces a long-awaited downtown core to West Wendover. This vibrant new hub is designed to enhance business opportunities, community engagement, and cultural enrichment.

“West Wendover’s Downtown Infrastructure Project is a testament to visionary leadership and the power of partnerships,” said NNRDA Executive Director Sheldon Mudd. “Chris Melville and his team’s unwavering commitment to innovation and community growth embodies the essence of a Bullseye Community.”

West Wendover Mayor Jasie Holm was on hand to accept the award on behalf of the city.

Honorable Mention: City of Wells

Wells was commended for its forward-thinking initiatives, including a rail spur project and an innovative healthcare clinic partnership with Intermountain Health. These efforts reflect Wells’ dedication to enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and economic vitality.

2024 Member Bullseye Award: Koinonia Construction

Koinonia Construction, under the leadership of CEO Luke Fitzgerald, was recognized for its significant contributions to alleviating the regional housing crisis. The company’s involvement in prospective initiatives such as the Victory Housing Initiative and the Northeastern Nevada housing shortage survey underscores its dedication to addressing urgent community needs.

“Koinonia Construction exemplifies how a small business can make a big impact,” added Mudd. “Luke Fitzgerald’s leadership and innovative approaches to housing solutions are inspiring.”

Honorable Mention: Silver Lion Farms

Silver Lion Farms received praise for its resilience in navigating bureaucratic challenges to establish a medical cannabis operation in White Pine County, investing over $200 million into the region and exemplifying persistence and innovation.

2024 Economic Development TOP GUN Award: Epiroc

Epiroc’s National Competency Center in Elko earned the prestigious 2024 Economic Development TOP GUN Award. The state-of-the-art facility advances sustainable mining practices, supports workforce development, and strengthens the local economy. The award was presented with a custom-designed trophy buckle.

Honorable Mentions:

Nevada Gold Mines for its investment in advanced mining equipment and regional partnerships.

Komatsu Equipment for its contributions to mining efficiency and community support.

Donna Bath (Silver Lion Farms) for her tireless advocacy for regional growth.

Special recognition included Board Chair Mackenna Velez was honored with a custom-designed trophy buckle for her outstanding leadership as NNRDA Chair and inaugural Chair of the Northeastern Nevada Economic Development Authority.

Others recognized included Mrs. Donna Bath of Silver Lion Farms, Dr. Fred Steinmann, Director of the UNR University Center for Economic Development ,and Mr. Bob Potts, former Deputy Director of the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

The luncheon concluded with a reaffirmation of NNRDA’s mission to foster collaboration and innovation. “Our region’s success is built on the shared vision and dedication of our communities, businesses, and leaders,” said Mudd. “Together, we continue to raise the bar for economic development in Northeastern Nevada.”
For more information about NNRDA and its initiatives, please visit NNRDA.com.