Clark County approves financing to Big Bend Water District for Laughlin water storage expansion

Clark County approves financing to Big Bend Water District for Laughlin water storage expansionThe Big Bend Water District will receive funding for a hydraulic study and the design of two new water tanks to unlock future development in the Fort Mohave Valley.

The agreement utilizes the Fort Mojave Valley Development Fund to address water storage capacity limits currently restricting growth in Laughlin.

An initial $2 million allocation covers a hydraulic study and design work, with an anticipated $9 million future request for construction.

The 30-year, zero-interest loan will be repaid via connection charges from new development, with any remaining balance forgiven at the end of the term.

The Clark County Board of Commissioners has approved a cooperative interlocal agreement to finance vital water storage infrastructure for the Big Bend Water District, aiming to stimulate future development in the Fort Mohave Valley. Approved during a public hearing on April 7, 2026, the agreement leverages the Fort Mojave Valley Development Fund to loan capital to the district for the design and construction of two new water tanks. According to county staff member Ms. Colvin, the township of Laughlin is currently restricted from further development due to severe water storage capacity limitations. The initial phase of the agreement authorizes up to $2 million to fund a hydraulic study and the design of the two water tanks. Following the design phase, the project is expected to return to the board for the approval of an additional $9 million to cover construction costs. The financing structure features a 30-year, 0% interest loan. Repayment will be generated from connection charges levied on new developments that tie into the system following the completion of the tanks. Under the terms of the interlocal agreement, any unpaid balance remaining at the end of the 30-year term will be forgiven by the county. Kathy Oaks, vice chair of the Laughlin Town Advisory Board, noted during the hearing that local stakeholders have been working on the storage capacity issue since 2018. Oaks added that the community intends to actively pursue grants and other funding avenues to help offset the loan balance. The commission unanimously approved the measure, citing the critical need to prevent economic stagnation in the township.