Frustrated Sandoval seeks Energy meeting

Gov. Brian Sandoval has given the head of the U.S. energy department a not-so-gentle reminder that he wants a meeting over Department of Energy policies, as well as plans to ship radioactive waste to the Nevada National Security Site.

Sandoval asked for a meeting June 20, saying the Energy Department needs to work more closely with Nevada and the state’s Indian tribes on its activities.

“As of writing this letter, I have received no official communications from your office regarding this request and now write again to request this important meeting as soon as possible,” he wrote to Moniz last week.

Sandoval and Southern Nevada officials are concerned about the DOE’s plans to ship more than 400 containers of waste that state officials regard as highly radioactive to the National Security Site in Southern Nevada.

“I believe it is essential that we develop a more effective and collaborative approach for addressing all DOE activities in the state, which must include more effective consultation with local governments and Native American Tribes,” Sandoval’s letter says. “I also wish to discuss with you the recent DOE proposal to reduce funding which supports the state overweight of the Nevada National Security Site waste management activities.”

The governor isn’t alone. Sen. Harry Reid and Rep. Dina Titus, both D-Nev., both have made similar requests for more information about the plan.