As executive vice president of East West Destination Hospitality/Tahoe Mountain Lodging, I have seen firsthand how the communities created under the Martis Valley Community Plan (MVCP) benefit locals, allowing them to live, work and recreate in Martis Valley.

Northstar, Lahontan, Martis Camp, and Schaffer’s Mill are all part of this plan. The proposed Martis Valley West Project will be the last community to be developed in Martis Valley, and it is the right plan for the area.

The MVCP communities serve to support thousands of jobs as the communities are built out. Architects, engineers, contractors, builders, carpenters, roofers, electricians, painters, plumbers, landscapers and others work in these communities.

All their families are integral to the fabric of our local community. There are hundreds of jobs associated with the day-to-day activities of the community upon completion of homes and amenities.

Tahoe Mountain Lodging alone employs more than 100 employees in HOA and vacation rental management services. These permanent jobs create career opportunities for a broad range of ages and skillsets within our community.

I have lived and worked in the Reno/Tahoe area for more than 12 years, and am lucky enough to enjoy paddleboarding, yoga, skiing, camping and the Tahoe lifestyle with my wife and two dogs.

I could live anywhere, but I choose to live here. Our employees also enjoy the active outdoor lifestyle that Martis Valley offers. Their kids get to grow up hiking, biking and skiing.

In addition to the jobs that it will create, the MVWP also includes a major conservation effort that will make over 6,000 acres of private land available to the public, offering even more outdoor recreational opportunities in the area. I believe the Martis Valley West Project is a balanced plan, creating jobs and opportunities for local families.

Kevin Graham

Truckee