KINGS BEACH, Calif. — The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency governing board will continue discussion this week of its comprehensive Regional Plan Update, which aims to dictate development and environmental policies and shape the future of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

On Wednesday, July 28, the board will discuss the conservation portion of the update, including issues such as protection of wildlife, fisheries, vegetation, soil conservation, monitoring and evaluation and shore zone matters.

The board will also discuss meeting management and efficient use of time, as complaints have surfaced from residents attempting to make public comment that the period when they can do so comes significantly later than the previously appointed time.

On Thursday, July 29, the governing board will discuss the agency's new strategic realignment.

TRPA laid off 5 employees two months ago in an effort to reconfigure staff, streamline operations, increase efficiency and effectiveness and instill more business-like practices into the agency.

Executive Director Joanne Marchetta, who took over from John Singlaub about a year ago, has enacted a multi-layered cultural shift within the agency — the foremost layer being a shift from categorically anti-development policies to working with the private sector to effect environmental redevelopment.

After an initial period of assessment, the agency is beginning to implement changes. On Thursday, Marchetta will discuss those changes and how the mid-June layoffs represent an organizational commitment to a new agency-wide method of operation.