BLM to take 'fresh look' at Burning Man housing request

U.S. Bureau of Land Management officials are reviewing the agency's recent requests to Burning Man after a Reno Gazette-Journal investigation last week revealed a more than $1 million proposal for BLM facilities and services at this year's event in the Black Rock Desert. The proposals included flush toilets, washers and dryers and 24-hour access to ice cream for high-level BLM personnel, according to documents obtained by the Reno Gazette-Journal. BLM Deputy Director Steve Ellis issued the following statement Monday: "I am concerned about the reported costs associated with supporting the Burning Man festival. I have directed that BLM staff take a fresh look at the initial proposals for food and facilities at the event. Our priority is to provide for participant and employee health and safety, sanitation and environmental compliance at this unique event that is attended by up to 80,000 people in a remote part of the Nevada desert. I have full confidence in BLM staff and their ability to develop a plan that is cost efficient and ensures public health and safety." Federal BLM officials stated that the Nevada office would be doing most of the review. The review does not mean that the documents will be revised. "At this point, it's taking a step back, taking a fresh look at what our needs are. It's making sure that whatever we do is being seen as cost-efficient," said Craig Leff, spokesman for the federal BLM offices in Washington, D.C. "Where that leads us will be determined."...more