Ward 3 NAB Regular Meeting

Fire Safety — Board members questioned whether Tesla Megapack lithium batteries could ignite in wildfires and how fires would be contained. Project team said the newer lithium iron phosphate batteries are lower-risk with built-in monitoring and suppression per unit. No agreement reached on whether safeguards are sufficient.

Noise Impact — Board asked about potential low-frequency humming from cooling fans affecting nearby residents. Project team said noise studies and screening walls will mitigate impact, but specific noise levels were not confirmed.

Local Jobs — Board noted the unmanned facility design creates no permanent on-site jobs. Project operates like a substation with 24/7 remote monitoring only. No resolution on whether this meets community benefit expectations.

Geographic Benefit — Board sought clarity on who owns the project and exactly which areas benefit from the grid stability it provides. Project team said it supports Reno and a Maryland substation but could not define precise service boundaries.

$250,000,000 — Washoe County School District Ward 3 facilities improvements — 2016 sales tax measure and ongoing capital program

Trego Grid Annexation (ANX26-00001) — City Council hearing date is still to be determined. The battery storage project cannot move forward until this annexation is approved.

Trego Grid Battery Storage (LDC26-00033) — Planning Commission hearing tentatively set for February 4, 2026. Board expects results from the noise study and detailed fire response plan before that hearing. Fire safety and noise concerns are the main obstacles.

WCSD Administrative Headquarters Consolidation — Study continues comparing two locations (9th Street and Corbett/Wooster campus). Recommendation expected later in 2026.