Reno City Council approves $300K streetlight audit to improve efficiency

Reno City Council convened on April 9, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting the community, with a focus on budget adjustments and public safety initiatives. A significant decision made during the meeting was the approval of a funding request aimed at enhancing public safety measures in downtown Reno, utilizing room tax revenue generated exclusively from gaming properties in the area.

The council members engaged in discussions about the potential economic impacts of a looming recession, with concerns raised about reduced revenue growth and the need for budget adjustments. Council member Ebert emphasized the struggles faced by constituents in paying basic utility bills, urging the council to consider the financial burden on residents when discussing fee structures and potential increases.

In a related financial discussion, the council approved an addendum to a contract with Wells Fargo and Infosend for managing merchant fees associated with credit card transactions. This change will allow the city to pass on credit card processing fees to customers, which is expected to save the city approximately $1 million annually across various funds. The council plans to implement this change by July 1, 2025, with clear communication to residents about the new fee structure.

Additionally, the council reviewed a Sewer User Rate Sufficiency Analysis, which recommended an 8% rate increase for two consecutive years to maintain the sewer fund's solvency. This increase is necessary to address rising operational costs and significant capital improvement projects. The council acknowledged the need for public engagement regarding this proposed increase, emphasizing the importance of transparency and community feedback.

The meeting concluded with a motion to initiate a community feedback process on the proposed sewer rate increase and to bring back an ordinance for consideration at a future meeting. The council's proactive approach aims to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of the community, ensuring that essential services remain funded while being mindful of residents' financial challenges.