Reno Council Member Opposes GSR Arena Project Citing Community Neglect

During the Reno City Council meeting on May 7, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed billion-dollar arena project associated with the Grand Sierra Resort (GSR). Community members voiced their apprehensions about the potential partnership with GSR's owner, Alex Morello, emphasizing the risks it poses to the city.

Paul White, a local advocate, strongly opposed the project, citing a troubling incident involving a homeless camp adjacent to GSR's property. He described how the camp has negatively impacted nearby small businesses, creating an atmosphere of fear for business owners and their customers. Despite repeated requests for GSR to address the situation, White claimed the resort has shown little genuine concern for the community, prioritizing profit over local welfare. He urged the council to reject the arena proposal, framing it as a reflection of how GSR might handle future challenges in Reno.

Additionally, another speaker, Paul Lennart, highlighted the need for community benefits agreements with profit-making corporations that utilize city resources. He expressed disappointment over the lack of a firm policy on this matter, urging the council to represent all citizens, not just those with financial influence.

The discussions underscored a growing tension between community needs and corporate interests, prompting council members to consider the implications of their decisions on local residents. As the council moves forward, the voices of concerned citizens like White and Lennart will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of Reno's development projects.