Washoe Checkbook

The propaganda team at Washoe County Government need to coach Commissioner Clara Andriola on future media appearances.

Commissioner Clara Andriola made quite the impression yesterday on KOLO Morning Break while attempting to promote her "Washoe County Checkbook" initiative. Her interview was a masterclass in unintentional comedy:

"From the comfort of your telephone to login," she explained—apparently unaware phones aren't known for their comfortable seating arrangements.

She then delivered the shocking revelation that "government budgets are complex." Who knew?

The highlights continued as she enthusiastically promoted her "Budget 101" sessions: "We're taping it so you can go back in," she assured viewers, promising "100% literacy" in county finances and "full transparency"—an interesting claim from someone whose campaign reportedly utilized a Las Vegas PAC for mailers.

The cherry on top came when Morning Break host Katey Roshetko suggested contacting "local government officials" - prompting Andriola to shout "Call Washoe 311!" Apparently, nothing says "I want to hear from constituents" like directing them to a general information hotline.

For someone positioning herself as the champion of transparency, she seems remarkably eager to avoid direct communication with the very residents she claims to serve.

Commissioner Clara Andriola enjoys a photo opportunity. At Andelin Family Farm yesterday. We found the photo amusing with Councilmembers Charlene Bybee and Donald Abbot from the City of Sparks who are both rumored to be running for mayor against Ed Lawson. Big question will Andriola be walking door to door with Bybee - after all, we need to remember, Bybee worked hard to get Andriola elected.