CARSON CITY – A department at UNLV and employees in the city of Las Vegas have been honored for their efforts to save taxpayer money.
The Nevada Taxpayer Association has presented the Cashman Good Government Award to the Facilities Management Department at UNLV and to the “Celebrate” program in the city of Las Vegas.
The facilities department was cited for saving $11 million since 2001 for maintaining a constant energy consumption rate despite increases in staff and larger facilities. It has also run a recycling program that generates money to reinvest, reducing the need for state funds.
The “Celebrate” program, which saves about $200,000 a year, is a grassroots effort by city of Las Vegas employees who make suggestions for efficiency. It is run by volunteer committees in each of the 13 city departments.
Also honored was Christine Wood of the state Health Division who has attracted grants for an oral health program allowing the expansion of dental services to children who might not otherwise have access to dental care.
The program is named after the late Las Vegas businessman James Cashman III.