Storey couple are stalwarts of county government

Richard Bacus is in charge of finding a way to fix the flood-damaged Six Mile Canyon Road, all the while keeping Storey County's other roads repaired and cleared of snow. He takes care of the county's parks, ball fields and swimming pools. He is responsible for the water and sewer systems, making sure that, as the plumbers say, "it all flows downhill."

It won't all be downhill for Bacus and his wife, Doreen, after Dec. 31, when they both retire from county government positions.

For 27 years, Richard has been Storey's public works director, overseeing the roads, water, sewer, grounds, parks and pool.

He is responsible for so much, many of the 3,700 or so county residents have had to call him for help, or a permit, or information.

"I'm going to do a little traveling, a little fishing," he said. "If the county needs my assistance, I'll be at their beckon."

Doreen Bacus, the county's clerk/treasurer, said she is looking forward to going on a trip and not having to rush back to work at the end of a week or two.