In this episode of On the Agenda, we dive into a big topic: Nevada’s unique property tax system.First, we cover highlights from the latest Council meeting, including acceptance of key public safety grants, updates on the Reno Police Department’s Mobile Outreach Safety Team, the annual economic outlook, and the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. Council also approved a new ordinance on Accessory Dwelling Units and made a decision regarding the Stonegate Development.Then, Finance Director Vicki Van Buren and Urban Economist Jason Gortari return to explain how property taxes work in Nevada and why it’s unlike anywhere else! From depreciation on both residential and commercial properties, to tax caps and the lack of resets on resale, we unpack how these rules impact homeowners, renters, and the City’s ability to fund essential services like police, fire, and road maintenance.
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13:35
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13:35
International Fire Code and the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code. (Reno City Council Meeting 8.27.25)
In this episode of On the Agenda, Reno Fire Chief David Cochran, Fire Inspector Sean O’Brien, and Boston the Arson Dog join us to explain the 2024 International Fire Code and the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code. They share what these updates mean for our community, why regional collaboration is so important, and how Reno is preparing for new challenges like lithium-ion battery storage and wildfire risks.City Manager Jackie Bryant also gives a look ahead to the September 10 Council meeting, highlighting housing initiatives, an economic update, and a closer look at accessory dwelling units.Stay informed and join us “On the Agenda.”
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16:33
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16:33
Consolidated Tax [C-Tax] (Reno City Council Meeting 8.13.25)
Did you know that if you spend $100 and pay sales tax of $8.27, only $0.69 makes its way back to the Biggest Little City through C-Tax? In Episode 11 of On the Agenda, we examine Consolidated Tax (C-Tax), a vital revenue source that funds nearly one-third of Reno’s General Fund. We're joined by Director of Finance Vicki Van Buren and Urban Economist Jason Gortari to hear how it works, why it matters, and what it could mean for the future of community services.
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13:39
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13:39
Sewer Utility System (Reno City Council Meeting 7.30.25)
Similar to how preventative maintenance on your vehicle could prevent major damage down the road, maintaining sewer pipes today can prevent costly repairs tomorrow!To understand more about the sewer utility system, we are joined by Trina Magoon, Director of Utility Services, and John Flansberg, Regional Infrastructure Administrator. They explain how our underground wastewater system works, why maintaining it is essential to public health, and the critical challenges the City is facing with aging infrastructure and treatment capacity.Jackie also previews what’s coming up at the next Council meeting on August 13, including updates on emergency dispatch systems, affordable housing projects, and a deep dive into how Reno’s largest revenue source, consolidated taxes, works.
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23:14
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23:14
Staff Reductions (Reno City Council Meeting 7.23.25)
In Episode 9 of On the Agenda, we discuss a challenging but necessary topic: staff reductions in response to a projected $25 million shortfall for Fiscal Year 2027. City Manager Jackie Bryant is joined by two guests: Director of Finance Vicki Van Buren, who breaks down the factors behind this decision, including slow revenue growth and economic uncertainty, and Chief Examiner for the Civil Service Commission Barbara Ackerman, who outlines the process and safeguards in place for workforce reductions. The conversation also touches on broader strategies the City is pursuing to minimize impacts on essential services and ensure long-term financial stability. Tune in for a transparent discussion about tough decisions and the City’s commitment to maintaining critical public services.
“On the Agenda” is a new podcast produced by the City of Reno and hosted by City Manager Jackie Bryant. In each episode, we’ll highlight important topics, provide context on council actions, and share how these decisions impact the Biggest Little City and its residents. Whether you are a longtime resident or new to our community, On the Agenda keeps you informed and engaged with what’s happening in your local government.
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