Plot Twist at the County: Mike Clark’s Surprise Vote Leaves Everyone Guessing

Commissioner Mike Clark’s request for an agenda item which was turned down by Chair Commissioner Alexis Hill last week. Hill rarely honors a request of Clark’s for any agenda item.

In a move that left many political watchers blinking in disbelief, Washoe County Commissioner Mike Clark—long known for his rocky history with Assistant County Manager Kate Thomas—cast a yes vote to appoint her as interim County Manager.

Yes, ‘that’ Kate Thomas. The same one Clark has previously clashed with over records, process, and power.

So what changed?

During the meeting, Thomas publicly promised to meet with Clark and work on improving public records access—one of Clark’s long-standing frustrations. He also voiced his concern that he can’t seem to get anything on the County Commission agenda, a not-so-subtle jab at how internal controls are (or aren’t) working behind the scenes.

Was this a breakthrough moment for government transparency? Or just political theater?

Here’s what we know:

• Thomas is interim County Manager as of July 1, 2025, while the search begins for Eric Brown’s replacement.

• Clark, despite his history with her, supported the move after a seemingly productive exchange.

• Promises were made—transparency, access, and cooperation.

Obviously the fix was in for Thomas since she had the support of Commissioners Hill, Garcia, and Andriola.

But here’s the real question:
Did Clark just broker a new era of openness for the county?
Or did he get outmaneuvered in a high-stakes game of administrative chess?

Only time—and maybe the next few agendas—will tell.

Stand by. This story isn’t over.