Las Vegas developer eyeing ranch, town land for development

After the Town of Pahrump and Nye County recently abandoned the idea to purchase the long-vacant Binion Ranch, a new developer is looking to acquire the property.

Doug McGeary, president of Delta Commercial Group, will submit a plan outlining his intention to purchase and develop the 138-acre Binion Ranch located at 700 E. Wilson Road in Pahrump to Nye County Commissioners on Tuesday.

McGeary said the purchase of the Binion Ranch would be a conduit to acquiring a 27.33-acre parcel at the northwest corner of Basin Road and Highway 160 in Pahrump where he wants to build a shopping center. The area is owned by the Town of Pahrump and county, and currently houses rodeo grounds, basketball and tennis courts, a pool and several town buildings.

"The reason we are pursuing this object in Pahrump is because we want to develop another shopping center," McGeary said.

According to the company's website, Delta Commercial Group specializes in acquisition, finance and redevelopment of shopping centers in the western part of the country.

In a preliminary plan, McGeary laid out his strategy for developing the Binion Ranch that includes special events area, aquatic center, sports facilities, picnic area, playground and dog park.

"We are willing to pay several million (dollars) and they can decide whether to invest it into Binion Ranch or fairgrounds," he said.

The plan is in its early stage and McGeary said it will require a further research and cost analysis if the county chooses to proceed with it. According to the memo, the Binion Ranch development plan is an opportunity to promote Pahrump and Nye County with new festivals, concerts and special events.

"If Pahrump is to grow, I think it has potential to be attractive for visitors and residents," McGeary said.

Pahrump-based Realty Executives of Nevada had previously appraised the property at $2.4 million. It is currently listed at $1.7 million.

Norma Jean Opatik, the broker with Realty Executives of Nevada who listed the property, wasn't available for comment Thursday.

McGeary said if the county will allow him to purchase the land, he will collaborate with officials and help to make it what the county wants it to be.

Nye County Commissioner Chairperson Lorinda Wichman said she didn't have an opinion on the matter.

"It would be nice to have those government facilities in one place, if the town chooses to do it," she said.

Commissioner Frank Carbone said McGeary would have to come up with an appraisal and a plan for the relocation of properties from the 27.33-acre parcel.

"I haven't seen the presentation yet," Carbone said. "He hasn't come up with any offers what it's going to cost."

Delta Commercial Group previously developed the Smith's 601 S. Highway 160, and Pahrump Valley Junction at Basin Road and South Highway 160 in Pahrump.

"People in Pahrump were thrilled to have a supermarket," he said.

"I think people would want (another) a shopping center."