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Special Reno City Council Meeting

Thursday, September 19, 2024

What Happened

Reno City Council held a special meeting on September 19, 2024, to approve labor contracts, adopt federal compliance plans, and review a residential development project in a high-fire-risk area. The council voted on roughly a dozen items over several hours.

Key Decisions

APPROVED — Firefighters contract (Local 731) with $3.3 million for one-year agreement including salary increases and expanded services at Reno Airport — Unanimous

APPROVED — Title Six Civil Rights Act compliance plan required to protect $27 million in annual federal funding — Unanimous

APPROVED — Neighborhood Advisory Board Ward 6 establishment following redistricting; South Reno areas move from Ward 2 — Unanimous

APPROVED — Canyons PUD residential development allowing 126 units (up from 81) in canyon area with horse management and private road provisions — 5-2 vote

Debated But Not Resolved

Fire regionalization talks — Council Member Reese said discussions are happening with lobbyists and staff outside public view. Mayor Shibi and others denied private conversations occurred. A public regional meeting is scheduled for January, but Reese requested the city conduct its own public discussion first before proceeding.

Canyons PUD roadway impacts — Council Member Breus questioned whether a 40% unit increase needs proportional road expansion and whether private roads should handle maintenance instead of the city. Staff could not provide specific roadway length numbers. Questions deferred to tentative map phase.

Canyons PUD fire safety — Breus opposed the project citing increased evacuation burden on firefighters and fire risk in a canyon area. Other council members cited housing supply needs. No resolution reached; project approved despite concerns.

Canyons PUD long-term commitments — Council members worried verbal agreements made by the deceased original developer won't stick if the land is later sold to major builders. Mayor emphasized need for continuity during next development phase.

What to Watch

$3.3 million — Firefighters Local 731 one-year contract — City budget (funding source not specified)

$27 million — Federal funding at risk if Title Six plan not adopted — Federal grants, contracts, and pass-through dollars

Fire regionalization decision (January) — A public regional meeting will occur in January. Watch whether city council holds its own public discussion first, as Reese requested.

Canyons PUD tentative map phase — Specific commitments on roadway length, private road designation, horse management, and water locations will be negotiated with the project team. This is where Breus's safety concerns may resurface.

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