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Ranchera homeowners win reduced-density compromise after weeks of debate over equestrian parcel
Summary
City Council members adopted master‑plan and PUD handbook changes May 7 that allow a reduced‑density residential redevelopment of the Ranchera equestrian parcel while setting new buffering and design standards after heated public testimony.
Reno’s City Council approved revisions to the Ranchera planned‑unit development (PUD) on May 7, 2025 after weeks of public comment and a contentious hearing in council chambers.
The council adopted a master‑plan amendment that changes the land‑use designation of the former Ranchera equestrian center from “parks/greenways/open space” to “single‑family residential.” On a subsequent vote the council amended the Ranchera handbook (the PUD zoning document) to permit a limited single‑family redevelopment of the equestrian site under new design standards adopted at the hearing.
The vote followed hours of public testimony from homeowners who said they bought into Ranchera based on earlier marketing and PUD commitments — including preserved equestrian uses, large lots and open space — and who described a “bait‑and‑switch” when those features were removed. Developers and their supporters argued the site is no longer economically viable as an events stable and must be redesignated to allow a sale and redevelopment that will generate tax revenue and support local construction jobs.
What the council approved
- Master plan amendment: The council unanimously approved a change in the city master plan that redesignates roughly 7.2 acres of the former equestrian center from Parks/Greenways/Open Space to single‑family residential. - PUD/handbook amendment (zoning): After motions, debate and an earlier failed proposal the council approved updated handbook zoning standards that lower the overall Ranchera unit total to 469 (down from the previously authorized 722), and modify design standards for the equestrian parcel (Village 8) and other handbook updates. The final handbook amendment adopted by the council sets a limit of units on Village 8 consistent with the new lot‑size standard adopted at the hearing and preserves a 50‑foot open‑space buffer and a one‑story height restriction for lots adjacent to that trail buffer.
Why it mattered
Many homeowners told the council they bought based on promises of a low‑density, horse‑oriented development and feared a loss of property value and neighborhood character. They urged the council to preserve the sales pavilion and other garden‑style open spaces. The developer said the equestrian business was no longer viable and that removal of the commercial use and redevelopment as single‑family housing is the most realistic option to move the property forward.
Key votes and procedural notes
- An early motion to adopt a resident‑proposed compromise failed 4–3 at the dais after extended debate. - The council later approved the master‑plan amendment (land‑use change) by unanimous vote. - The handbook (PUD zoning) amendment was approved 5–2; that vote adopted revised handbook text and explicit limits that will govern lot size, required buffers and one‑story requirements adjacent to the trail buffer.
Numbers and clarifying details
- Original Ranchera PUD (1995) allowed an earlier configuration; 2015 amendments expanded allowable units to 722 at full buildout.
