Reno council debates Jay Resorts' festival grounds amid community concerns

The Planning Commission Meeting held on February 19, 2025, in Reno, Nevada, focused on the proposed development of festival grounds by Jay Resorts, drawing significant public concern and debate. Residents expressed strong opposition to the project, citing issues related to urban planning, community needs, and the potential for underutilization of the space.

Maggie Telander, a local resident, voiced her disapproval of the project, questioning the necessity of two large-scale festival grounds in close proximity. She highlighted that existing venues, such as the Greater Nevada Field and the Downtown Reno Ballroom, often remain vacant, suggesting that additional event spaces would not contribute to the vibrancy of downtown Reno. Telander emphasized the need for a comprehensive development plan that prioritizes mixed-use spaces and sustainable growth over entertainment venues that primarily operate at night.

Robert Deggetts, an experienced outdoor venue manager, raised concerns about the feasibility of accommodating 15,000 people in the proposed 64,000 square-foot space, arguing that the design does not meet industry standards for crowd capacity. He also pointed out the lack of essential facilities, such as restrooms, which he deemed critical for any successful venue. Deggetts urged the commission to ensure that any development is executed with quality and consideration for the community.

Eric LaRue, another resident, reiterated concerns about noise pollution and the city's failure to address existing noise issues. He called for a moratorium on conditional use permits for entertainment facilities until the city can effectively manage these problems. LaRue criticized the lack of communication between Jay Resorts and local residents regarding the proposed festival grounds, stating that the concessions offered by the developers did not align with community needs.

The discussions highlighted a broader concern among residents about the direction of downtown Reno's development. Many expressed a desire for a thriving urban environment that supports diverse businesses and residential life, rather than an entertainment-focused landscape dominated by underutilized spaces. The commission's decision on the Jay Resorts application remains pending, with community members advocating for a more thoughtful approach to urban planning in Reno.