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Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 12:03 AM

Sheriff says education, not enforcement, of mask directive

Sheriff says education, not enforcement, of mask directive
Robert Perea, The Fernley Reporter

Frank Hunewill


The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office will support the Governor’s directive on the wearing of masks in public through education, not enforcement, Sheriff Hunewill said in a statement Thursday.

Hunewill addressed several aspects of the directive in his statement, also asking that residents not call 911 to report violations of the directive, and adding that it is not illegal to carry a concealed weapon while wearing a mask.

The following is the text of Hunewill’s statement:

The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office recommends that everyone continues to exercise common sense, be aware of the CDC guidelines, and the recent directive from the Governor’s Office regarding the wearing of masks, especially high-risk groups.

Due to the minor nature of the possible offense, the potential for negative enforcement encounters, and anticipating the various ways in which the directive could be violated, it would be inappropriate for our deputies to take a direct enforcement approach and go after someone criminally. Instead we will continue to assist the Lyon County Board of Health and other members of county government in an educational capacity.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind everyone that 911 is for emergencies only. The reporting of potential mask violations would not fall into this category and we ask that you not use the 911 system to report violations of the Governors Directives.

Several citizens have inquired if it is illegal to carry a concealed weapon and wear a mask. It is not illegal to wear a mask and carry concealed per NRS 202.365.3.

-Stay Safe

Sheriff Frank Hunewill

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Comment author: PFB Comment text: Why can't you guys find competent contractors.. For a large municipal facility like the indoor-outdoor Fernley Swimming Pool located at 300 Cottonwood Lane, a complete ground-up commercial build or major structural renovation typically spans 6 to 12 months or longer when factoring in large-scale engineering, public municipal permitting, specialized commercial HVAC/roofing, and health department inspections. The current renovation has been- The Fernley Swimming Pool has been closed for approximately six to seven months since late February 2026 for a major roof replacement and facility renovation. Now you sat October. Soooo 8 months for a new roof. The picture shows no other renovations. Comment publication date: 9/17/26, 7:14 PM Comment source: Electrical problem delays Fernley pool opening Comment author: P Comment text: Relative of the Mayor is to over see this site. Anyone who knows Fernley KNOWS this is more of the who you are related to and know business in this town. VOTE THEM ALL OUT AND THE CALIFORNIA TRANSPLANTS. Comment publication date: 9/16/26, 10:31 PM Comment source: Lift Station Failure Released Untreated Sewage Comment author: Christopher Walsh Comment text: Could you look into the strong recurring smell around Fernley? It smells like sewage and it can be bad enough that people don’t want to be outside or open their windows. It would be helpful to get an investigative journalist help the Fernley residents get a clear answer from the City, NDEP, and any involved facilities. I was really disappointed that the smell was not disclosed by my realtor when I moved here. I enjoy Fernley and am seeing the improvements that are being made. With Appreciation Comment publication date: 9/12/26, 2:49 PM Comment source: Sewage spill near City of Fernley Municipal Well 9 Comment author: Alicia Euresti Comment text: We are all so blessed to have Pastor Matt and Mrs. Regina in this town. They have become a major part of pur family and our children adore them. Thank you both for all you do for qll of us. We love you!!!! Comment publication date: 9/6/26, 9:24 PM Comment source: Fascinating Fernley: Meet Your Neighbors at Living Faith Food Pantry Comment author: R Conley Comment text: Is the deputy receiving any additional training or reinforcing prior training? Comment publication date: 9/5/26, 10:08 AM Comment source: Inmate escapes from Fernley substation Comment author: Kayla Allen Comment text: Suzie was a wonderful woman. I was pleased to call her my "godmother" as she helped me to become a better version of myself. I think about her a lot. Comment publication date: 7/10/26, 8:31 PM Comment source: Susanne Lynn Foster