CITY OF RENO — In light of yesterday’s opinion by the Nevada Supreme Court that reversed a District Court order that had granted a preliminary injunction in the lawsuit between Reno Fire Fighters Association (IAFF Local 731) and the City of Reno, the City of Reno is issuing the following statement:
The City of Reno appreciates the Nevada Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the City Council’s authority over the City’s budget.
“We are aware that this issue has been closely monitored by other jurisdictions and appreciate the Court’s consideration in upholding that important fiscal authority,” Reno City Manager Andrew Clinger says.
At a special budget meeting held on July 15, 2014, Reno City Council reallocated funds from other department budgets and programs to fund the Reno Fire Department budget through the end of this fiscal year. In February 2015, Council will begin the annual budget planning cycle for Fiscal Year 2016.
“This opinion will not have a negative impact on our continued ongoing negotiations with IAFF,” Clinger adds. “Our primary concern continues to be to provide the highest level of public safety for our residents.”
Background:
The District Court originally granted the injunction on June 24, 2014. The City of Reno appealed that decision to the Nevada Supreme Court.
In anticipation that these legal proceedings would take time, City Council approved a plan on July 15, 2014 to reallocate nearly $2 million to fund 21 firefighter positions through Fiscal Year 2015, with only a small portion of that reallocation coming from ongoing funding sources.
On July 31, 2014, the Nevada Supreme Court issued an Order Denying Motion for Stay and Setting Expedited Briefing Schedule in the City of Reno’s appeal of the District Court ‘s decision to grant an injunction.
