On the Agenda: A City of Reno Podcast

The City’s budget is back on the agenda. So, where do things stand?

In this episode of On the Agenda, we welcome Director of Finance Vicki Van Buren to break down the latest budget adjustments, including how $600,000 in additional consolidated tax revenue will restore funding for six previously frozen police officer positions.

What changed to make that possible? How does the City plan for the ongoing cost? And does additional revenue mean the budget challenges are behind us? We explore those questions, explain why some funding carries over from year to year and look at what’s ahead as planning begins for the next budget.

Plus, we recap highlights from the October 7 Reno City Council meeting and preview what’s coming on October 21.

Paying off debt may not be as visible as a new building, park or streetscape, but it can help make future redevelopment projects possible.

In this episode of On the Agenda, Assistant City Manager Ashley Turney explains the Reno Redevelopment Agency’s decision to pay off two series of tax increment bonds issued in 2007. They break down what terms like “redemption,” “defeasance” and “tax increment” mean, where the funding comes from and why this action does not create a new tax or increase anyone’s tax rate.

The conversation also explores how eliminating the debt reduces future interest costs and gives the Agency greater flexibility to invest future tax increment in eligible projects that improve public spaces, support housing, strengthen local businesses and encourage private investment.

In this episode of On the Agenda, we explore the proposed Dickerson Trail Bridge, a new bicycle and pedestrian connection that could one day link the Dickerson Road neighborhood and Oxbow Nature Study Area with Idlewild Park and the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail.

Public Works Senior Management Analyst Brynna Nichols explains how a newly accepted $250,000 state grant, along with a $50,000 City match, will support the project’s planning, design, environmental review and permitting. We also clarify what Council approved, what must happen before construction can begin and how the bridge could close an important gap in Reno’s regional trail network.

Today, we’re talking about a recent Reno City Council decision involving a City-owned property in the Stead community.

Council approved the sale of the property at 14180 Mt. Charleston Street to the Reno Housing Authority, or RHA, for a nominal $10 plus closing costs.

Now, if you hear that the City sold a piece of property for $10, you might have some questions.

Why $10? What is actually on the property? Why did the City sell it to RHA? And what does the decision mean for the residents who live there?

We’re answering those questions today.

What is a Privileged Business License and why does it have to come before the Reno City Council?
In this episode of On the Agenda, Director of Licensing and Code Enforcement Lance Ferrato explains what makes a business license "privileged" and why they appear on Council agendas. Ferrato also unveils a new tool on the City's website aimed at making the business license process smoother.
Plus, hear highlights from the August 12 Reno City Council meetings and a preview of items coming before Council on August 26.
Learn more and listen to past episodes at Reno.gov/OnTheAgenda.