On Halloween night, October 31, Washoe County Manager Eric Brown was spotted with his wife at David’s Grill in Sparks, despite recently taking an early medical leave citing a pneumonia diagnosis. Brown, who oversees county operations, including election oversight, reportedly left work on October 28 for a month-long medical leave planned for a later date in November.
An eyewitness noticed Brown’s personalized sports car outside the Red Hawk Golf and Resort, where the couple were at the bar, and shared photos to verify his presence. While it remains unclear if Brown was drinking alcohol, the nature of his illness has led to speculation.
Medical advice for pneumonia often involves antibiotics and extended rest, usually incompatible with outings or drinking.
In response to questions, County Spokesperson Bethany Drysdale explained that Brown’s leave was to ensure his full recovery ahead of the procedure.
“We tell our employees it’s okay to get sick, take time for family, and use their leave, and I’m going to do exactly that,” Brown said in a statement.
He emphasized the county’s commitment to cross-training employees to support continuity in his absence.
Some employees expressed frustration over the lack of advance notice about Brown’s leave. One employee emailed that, by learning of it from news outlets, they felt “a disappointing and disrespectful level of communication.”
Others have called for a review of Brown’s recent behavior, suggesting it does not align with his medical claims. On social media, the eyewitness urged Chairwoman Alexis Hill to launch an investigation, raising concerns over potential misuse of medical leave.
The Old Blog in the Desert 
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