Reno City Council approves Ranchera plan reducing units and designating Village 8

The Reno City Planning Commission convened on April 2, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the Ranchera development plan, which could reshape the community's landscape and governance. The primary focus of the meeting was a proposal to replace the existing Equestrian Center designation with a new residential area known as Village 8, alongside a reduction in the total number of housing units.

The proposed changes involve amending the master plan to eliminate the Equestrian Center and reduce the overall unit count from 722 to 469. This adjustment aims to address ongoing concerns from residents regarding control of their homeowners association (HOA). Currently, only 292 units have been sold, and the reduction in units would allow residents to gain majority control of the HOA board, which has been a persistent issue for the community.

The commission highlighted that the density of the Ranchera development would decrease from 5.1 units per acre to 3.3 units per acre, a move that is expected to benefit current residents by providing them with more influence over their community governance. The proposal also includes increasing the density of the new Village 8 area from one dwelling unit per acre to 4.5 units per acre, reflecting a shift towards more efficient land use in light of the Equestrian Center's demolition.

In summary, the commission's discussions centered on balancing community needs with development goals. The proposed amendments not only aim to enhance residential control but also to adapt the land use to better fit the current context of the Ranchera area. As the planning process continues, these changes could significantly impact the future of housing and community governance in Reno.