On Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at the South Tahoe Public Utility District, the Tahoe Chamber gathered community members, business leaders, and local officials for the annual State of the South Shore Forum—an evening of high-level discussion focused on infrastructure, growth, and regional collaboration.
Facilitated by Steve Teshera, the forum featured an expert panel including:
- Joe Irvin, City Manager of City of South Lake Tahoe, View Presentation
- Wendy Lang, Assistant County Manager of Douglas County, NV, View Presentation
- Brooke Laine, District 5 Supervisor of El Dorado County, View Presentation
- Paul Hughes, General Manager of South Tahoe Public Utility District
Together, they examined the multi-jurisdictional approach required to address major infrastructure investments and future projects that shape the South Shore’s trajectory. Highlights included:
Infrastructure as a Foundation for Growth
Joe Irvin and Brooke Laine emphasized that infrastructure extends beyond roads—it supports economic vitality, tourism, and environmental stewardship. Recent completed projects and planned investments underway were shared as examples of that strategic connection.
Regional Coordination & Funding Stories
Wendy Lang discussed how Douglas County is leveraging funding sources and coordinating across state lines—highlighting the broader regional perspective of infrastructure planning. Paul Hughes offered an inside look at the utility district’s role in ensuring reliable systems and how those investments underpin community resilience.
Community Engagement & What’s Ahead
Panelists described how engaging the community early helps deliver infrastructure that works for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. They detailed upcoming priorities, from facility upgrades to long-term investments, and underscored the shared vision for a connected, sustainable South Shore.
Your Voice Matters
The hour-long Q&A segment gave attendees the chance to ask written questions and engage directly with each speaker. It reinforced that infrastructure isn’t just “behind the scenes”—it’s part of what shapes daily life and business success.
For those who couldn’t join us, the full discussion is available online. Watch the full video of the forum here:
