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November 19, 2025 Reno City Council Meeting Highlights
Post Date:11/20/2025 4:22 p.m.
In our ongoing commitment to keep residents and media informed we’ve summarized the outcomes of a few key agenda items from Wednesday’s Regular Meeting of the Reno City Council. Staff Reports with more information are linked below.
B.5 - Vulnerable Road User Traffic Safety Grant for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons
Council accepted the FY2026 Vulnerable Road User Traffic Safety Grant from the Nevada Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety for up to $100,000, requiring a 25% City match. The funding will support the purchase of 10 rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) systems. These beacons will be installed across all six wards at locations identified through data-driven analysis of conflict potential, exposure, and visibility. RRFBs are proven to increase driver yielding and improve pedestrian visibility, especially at unsignalized or midblock crossings. Installation of the new systems is expected to be completed by Spring 2026. The grant award follows a June 2025 statewide call for projects, during which the City received the full $100,000 requested to address pedestrian safety concerns. Learn more about the project.
B.7 - Approval of Sale of City-owned Property at 2500 E. Fourth Street
Council adopted a resolution to enter into an Economic Development and Purchase Sale Agreement for a City-owned parcel located at 2500 E. Fourth Street. The property, acquired from Union Pacific Railroad in 2006 as part of the ReTRAC project, is currently leased by Flyers Energy, who would like to purchase it at the fair market value of $2,785,000. The proposed sale advances economic development and redevelopment of the site by retaining and enhancing the current mixed-use facilities, contributing to the stability and growth of local businesses, and may proceed without a public auction under NRS 268.063. Proceeds from the sale may be deposited into the City’s General Fund, though it should be noted that the transaction will reduce the ReTRAC maintenance fund by approximately $121,688 in annual lease revenue.
C.1 - C-scale Noise Discussion and Presentation
Council received a presentation from the City’s Development Services Team on noise regulations, following a June 2025 Council request to research C-scale noise levels and compare how other cities manage noise. Reno’s current noise ordinance is based on A-scale, which measures general loudness, while C-scale measures low-frequency or bass-heavy noise. Between July and October 2025, noise measurements were taken across downtown, Midtown, and E. 4th Street, capturing C-scale data over 48-hour periods during events and regular weekends. The study found that average downtown noise consistently exceeded 70 decibels (dBC), with daytime levels of 71-75 dBc and nighttime levels of 72-76 dBc, and streets with more nightlife were especially louder late at night. Comparisons with other cities showed allowable C-scale limits ranging from 60 to 100 dBc, with some cities regulating relative to ambient levels rather than fixed limits. The review concluded there is no clear “best practice,” enforcement methods vary, and Reno’s 24-hour nightlife makes managing noise difficult. For next steps, staff will continue to monitor C-scale noise levels, and focus on the broader City, rather than the entertainment core. That information will be collected and brought back to City Council for further discussion on the topic of noise.
C.3 - Downtown Reno Policing Update
Council received an update on downtown Reno safety, where RPD reported progress through proactive enforcement, investigations, and community engagement. Recent results include closing multiple nuisance motels, over 700 arrests, 1,300 citations, major crime reductions (54% fewer homicides, 22% fewer injury shootings, and 59% fewer shootings into homes compared to 2024), a 25% drop in collisions compared to 2024, and the seizure of 10 pounds of fentanyl and 4.2 pounds of other narcotics. RPD continues working with community partners and will launch a Town Hall Series in December 2025 to improve transparency. Council praised Reno Police Chief Nance but discussed staffing concerns, and she noted that 22% of sworn positions are currently unavailable. Council recommended exploring additional resources to support downtown policing.
C.4 - McCarran Boulevard Enforcement and Safety Update
Council received a presentation with an update on traffic safety along McCarran Boulevard, including results from increased enforcement by the Reno Police Department in collaboration with the Nevada Highway Patrol. This update continues the public discussion requested by Mayor Schieve following several fatal crashes, and builds on a February 2025 joint presentation by RPD, NHP, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC), and the City that reviewed collision data, enforcement strategies, and road safety best practices. Reno Police Chief Nance noted in the presentation that there has been a 57% increase in citations in 2025 compared to 2024 (from 776 citations to 1,217). In 2025 so far, there have been six fatal crashes along McCarran Boulevard. Chief Nance also provided updates on roadway improvements, including completed wall and guardrail repairs between Skyline and Cashill Boulevards and the planned 2026 installation of an advanced warning signal. Moving forward, RPD will continue to work with RTC and NDOT on identified roadway projects, continue to increase enforcement in collaboration with regional partners, and identify opportunities to collaborate with state lawmakers on enforcement tools.
C.5 - Illegal Use of Electric Bicycles and Scooters on City Streets Presentation
Council received a presentation from the Reno Police Department (RPD) focusing on the illegal use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and scooters throughout the City. RPD collaborated with Ward 6 Councilmember Brandi Anderson to implement a multi-pronged approach to reduce unsafe and illegal behavior. This presentation follows recent enforcement and education efforts and a highly visible accident that occurred in south Reno. RPD has seen a rise in unsafe and illegal use of e-bikes, scooters, and mopeds, particularly by juveniles, leading to collisions, injuries, and viral social media posts promoting risky behavior. Many of these vehicles exceed legal limits under Nevada law, requiring registration, licensing, helmets, and safety equipment. Legal e-bikes are limited to a maximum of 750 watts and may travel up to 20 mph using motor power alone, or up to 30 mph with pedal assist. Vehicles with higher power outputs (between 750 and 1,500 watts) are considered mopeds, while those exceeding 1,500 watts are classified as motorcycles and must meet all corresponding regulatory requirements. RPD has launched enforcement, education, and school-based initiatives to improve safety. Council directed staff to continue to work with legislators and stakeholders across the region and state to collaborate on ways to improve safety related to e-bikes and e-scooters.
C.7 - Reno Aces Renegotiation of Agreements with the City of Reno
Council approved staff to renegotiate any applicable contracts, leases, and/or agreements with Nevada Land and Aces Baseball. City staff were directed to review existing contracts to identify gaps, upcoming deadlines, and potential opportunities for renegotiation that could benefit the City. After review, staff found that the Aces’ commitment to operate and not relocate expires in 2029, while the organization’s lease and payment agreements last until 2043. This creates a misalignment between the operating commitment and the lease term, presenting both a risk and an opportunity for strategic engagement with the Aces organization. The Aces organization significantly boosts downtown Reno by attracting visitors, supporting over 530 jobs, generating $9.3 million in labor income, and contributing nearly $21.9 million in annual spending, while also investing over $10 million in stadium improvements since 2022. To secure AAA baseball’s future and create a more sustainable partnership, staff will now move forward with the renegotiation process and come back with a term sheet at a future Reno City Council and Redevelopment Agency Board meeting.
Return to full list >>B.5 - Vulnerable Road User Traffic Safety Grant for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons
Council accepted the FY2026 Vulnerable Road User Traffic Safety Grant from the Nevada Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety for up to $100,000, requiring a 25% City match. The funding will support the purchase of 10 rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) systems. These beacons will be installed across all six wards at locations identified through data-driven analysis of conflict potential, exposure, and visibility. RRFBs are proven to increase driver yielding and improve pedestrian visibility, especially at unsignalized or midblock crossings. Installation of the new systems is expected to be completed by Spring 2026. The grant award follows a June 2025 statewide call for projects, during which the City received the full $100,000 requested to address pedestrian safety concerns. Learn more about the project.
B.7 - Approval of Sale of City-owned Property at 2500 E. Fourth Street
Council adopted a resolution to enter into an Economic Development and Purchase Sale Agreement for a City-owned parcel located at 2500 E. Fourth Street. The property, acquired from Union Pacific Railroad in 2006 as part of the ReTRAC project, is currently leased by Flyers Energy, who would like to purchase it at the fair market value of $2,785,000. The proposed sale advances economic development and redevelopment of the site by retaining and enhancing the current mixed-use facilities, contributing to the stability and growth of local businesses, and may proceed without a public auction under NRS 268.063. Proceeds from the sale may be deposited into the City’s General Fund, though it should be noted that the transaction will reduce the ReTRAC maintenance fund by approximately $121,688 in annual lease revenue.
C.1 - C-scale Noise Discussion and Presentation
Council received a presentation from the City’s Development Services Team on noise regulations, following a June 2025 Council request to research C-scale noise levels and compare how other cities manage noise. Reno’s current noise ordinance is based on A-scale, which measures general loudness, while C-scale measures low-frequency or bass-heavy noise. Between July and October 2025, noise measurements were taken across downtown, Midtown, and E. 4th Street, capturing C-scale data over 48-hour periods during events and regular weekends. The study found that average downtown noise consistently exceeded 70 decibels (dBC), with daytime levels of 71-75 dBc and nighttime levels of 72-76 dBc, and streets with more nightlife were especially louder late at night. Comparisons with other cities showed allowable C-scale limits ranging from 60 to 100 dBc, with some cities regulating relative to ambient levels rather than fixed limits. The review concluded there is no clear “best practice,” enforcement methods vary, and Reno’s 24-hour nightlife makes managing noise difficult. For next steps, staff will continue to monitor C-scale noise levels, and focus on the broader City, rather than the entertainment core. That information will be collected and brought back to City Council for further discussion on the topic of noise.
C.3 - Downtown Reno Policing Update
Council received an update on downtown Reno safety, where RPD reported progress through proactive enforcement, investigations, and community engagement. Recent results include closing multiple nuisance motels, over 700 arrests, 1,300 citations, major crime reductions (54% fewer homicides, 22% fewer injury shootings, and 59% fewer shootings into homes compared to 2024), a 25% drop in collisions compared to 2024, and the seizure of 10 pounds of fentanyl and 4.2 pounds of other narcotics. RPD continues working with community partners and will launch a Town Hall Series in December 2025 to improve transparency. Council praised Reno Police Chief Nance but discussed staffing concerns, and she noted that 22% of sworn positions are currently unavailable. Council recommended exploring additional resources to support downtown policing.
C.4 - McCarran Boulevard Enforcement and Safety Update
Council received a presentation with an update on traffic safety along McCarran Boulevard, including results from increased enforcement by the Reno Police Department in collaboration with the Nevada Highway Patrol. This update continues the public discussion requested by Mayor Schieve following several fatal crashes, and builds on a February 2025 joint presentation by RPD, NHP, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC), and the City that reviewed collision data, enforcement strategies, and road safety best practices. Reno Police Chief Nance noted in the presentation that there has been a 57% increase in citations in 2025 compared to 2024 (from 776 citations to 1,217). In 2025 so far, there have been six fatal crashes along McCarran Boulevard. Chief Nance also provided updates on roadway improvements, including completed wall and guardrail repairs between Skyline and Cashill Boulevards and the planned 2026 installation of an advanced warning signal. Moving forward, RPD will continue to work with RTC and NDOT on identified roadway projects, continue to increase enforcement in collaboration with regional partners, and identify opportunities to collaborate with state lawmakers on enforcement tools.
C.5 - Illegal Use of Electric Bicycles and Scooters on City Streets Presentation
Council received a presentation from the Reno Police Department (RPD) focusing on the illegal use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and scooters throughout the City. RPD collaborated with Ward 6 Councilmember Brandi Anderson to implement a multi-pronged approach to reduce unsafe and illegal behavior. This presentation follows recent enforcement and education efforts and a highly visible accident that occurred in south Reno. RPD has seen a rise in unsafe and illegal use of e-bikes, scooters, and mopeds, particularly by juveniles, leading to collisions, injuries, and viral social media posts promoting risky behavior. Many of these vehicles exceed legal limits under Nevada law, requiring registration, licensing, helmets, and safety equipment. Legal e-bikes are limited to a maximum of 750 watts and may travel up to 20 mph using motor power alone, or up to 30 mph with pedal assist. Vehicles with higher power outputs (between 750 and 1,500 watts) are considered mopeds, while those exceeding 1,500 watts are classified as motorcycles and must meet all corresponding regulatory requirements. RPD has launched enforcement, education, and school-based initiatives to improve safety. Council directed staff to continue to work with legislators and stakeholders across the region and state to collaborate on ways to improve safety related to e-bikes and e-scooters.
C.7 - Reno Aces Renegotiation of Agreements with the City of Reno
Council approved staff to renegotiate any applicable contracts, leases, and/or agreements with Nevada Land and Aces Baseball. City staff were directed to review existing contracts to identify gaps, upcoming deadlines, and potential opportunities for renegotiation that could benefit the City. After review, staff found that the Aces’ commitment to operate and not relocate expires in 2029, while the organization’s lease and payment agreements last until 2043. This creates a misalignment between the operating commitment and the lease term, presenting both a risk and an opportunity for strategic engagement with the Aces organization. The Aces organization significantly boosts downtown Reno by attracting visitors, supporting over 530 jobs, generating $9.3 million in labor income, and contributing nearly $21.9 million in annual spending, while also investing over $10 million in stadium improvements since 2022. To secure AAA baseball’s future and create a more sustainable partnership, staff will now move forward with the renegotiation process and come back with a term sheet at a future Reno City Council and Redevelopment Agency Board meeting.
Board Appointments
- Forest Keller and Lauren Krull were appointed to the Ward 3 Neighborhood Advisory Board. Cory Munson and Natalie Katsaros were appointed as alternates.
Other Headlines
- Council accepted a $5,000 sub-grant award from Move United to support Trauma Center Sensitive Yoga classes for veterans
- Ward 6 Councilmember Brandi Anderson donates $2,500 in discretionary funds to Damonte Ranch High School in support of the softball team
- City’s Finance Department gives Council an update on the General Fund for fiscal year 24/25 and highlights development of the fiscal year 26/27 budget
Reno City Council meetings are streamed live at Reno.Gov/Meetings and televised live on Charter Spectrum - Channel 194. Past public meetings can be viewed on YouTube.