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Historical Resources Commission Meeting

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Note: This summary is based on published meeting minutes.

What Happened

The Reno Historical Resources Commission met for roughly two hours on March 12, 2026, to address historic preservation funding, event planning, and awards logistics.

Key Decisions

CONTINUED — 100th anniversary celebration planning for Reno Arch and Transcontinental Highway California Building — Staff Liaison Hafey will coordinate a follow-up meeting with Commissioners Durham and Hatjakes to discuss events further; no budget currently allocated.

APPROVED — March 12, 2026 agenda — Unanimous.

APPROVED — January 15, 2026 meeting minutes — Unanimous.

Debated But Not Resolved

Lear building funding — Councilmember Duerr said $1.5 million is needed to secure and stabilize the outside, potentially plus fundraising. Commissioner Erny recommended the city pursue only necessary funds for roof stabilization and security, which may cost less than $1.5 million. Staff to clarify actual costs needed.

2026 Historic Preservation Awards — alcoholic beverages — Councilmember Duerr questioned why serving alcohol was problematic. Staff Liaison Berner explained the city cannot purchase liquor for a public event, though an outside entity could sponsor a catering company through a special event permit. No decision made.

2026 Historic Preservation Awards — catering and admission — Councilmember Duerr requested other food caterers be considered and suggested selling admission tickets instead of offering free entry. Catering vendor and admission policy remain unresolved.

What to Watch

No items over $50,000 were formally approved with defined funding sources. The 2026 Historic Preservation Awards event (linens, Cheese Board catering, non-alcoholic drinks, awards, decorations) has budget allocated but no specific dollar amount disclosed.

Lear building stabilization cost — Commission must determine whether to pursue the full $1.5 million approach or a scaled-down stabilization-only strategy. Funding source has not been identified.

100th anniversary event budget — No funding currently exists for Reno Arch and Transcontinental Highway California Building anniversary celebrations. Decision on event scope and cost will come after the April planning meeting.

Preservation Awards event details — Commission must finalize whether to charge admission, approve alternative caterers, and determine how to serve alcohol (if at all) within city permitting rules.

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