On the Agenda: A City of Reno Podcast

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.

What does it mean for Reno and Sparks to share a Fire Chief?

In this episode of On the Agenda, Reno Fire Chief Dave Cochran explains the new interlocal agreement that places both the Reno and Sparks fire departments under Chief Cochran’s executive leadership.

They discuss how the shared leadership model will work, what will remain separate, how Sparks will contribute financially and how greater coordination could improve station coverage, emergency response and regional resources. Plus, hear highlights from the July 29 Reno City Council and Redevelopment Agency Board meetings and a preview of items coming before Council on Aug. 12.

Learn more and listen to past episodes at Reno.gov/OnTheAgenda.