Parks and open spaces, to include the Truckee River, will soon have new patrols. The Reno City Council today unanimously approved hiring two new park ranger positions. The vote was the first approval and a second reading and adoption will occur at a future council meeting.
The rangers will be non commissioned rangers, meaning they are not law enforcement and will not be carrying guns. Rangers will patrol park and recreation areas to enforce rules and regulations.
Mayor Hillary Schieve said “it’s gotten out of control down at the river… and we have to address it. A lot of our residents cannot use it for recreation. If we let people stay there, it’s only going to be more dangerous for them and for others, and that’s not right.”
Lily Baran with the ACLU of Nevada said she would like to see the city commit to keeping the rangers unarmed.
“That is a trend that has happened with other cities,” she said. Some spoke against the measures, saying it would lead city officials to criminalize those experiencing homelessness.
Baran also requested more trash cans and resources for those unable to stay at the Cares Campus.
“I agree with you, so thank you,” Schieve said in response to Baran.
The city had two unarmed rangers starting in 1995 but the positions were eliminated as part of budget cuts during the Great Recession.
“Revitalizing this program will entail much of what was originally implemented in the late 1990s,” city staff said.
More city council actions
Provided by the City of Reno
Fire station alerting system
Council approved a contract purchase with PURVIS Fire Station Alerting System for software and services related to Public Safety Dispatch and Reno Fire Department in an amount not to exceed $1,240,000. The purchase will be reimbursed by 911 surcharge funds. The Public Safety Dispatch and Fire Department require a new fire station alerting system to replace the legacy system to ensure there is a reliable enhanced communication system between dispatch and the fire stations during fire emergency calls.
Donation to Reno Fire Department’s paramedic scholarship program
Council accepted a cash donation in the amount of $1,000 from the Paralyzed Veterans of America to the Reno Fire Department for its paramedic scholarship program. Staff will use this donation as part of the City’s paramedic scholarship program supporting our firefighters.
Offenses against property ordinance introduction
Council approved an ordinance introduction to be heard for a second reading and adoption, amending Title 8, Chapter 8.10, of the Reno MunicipalCode entitled “Offenses Against Property,” creating new Ordinance RMC8.10.110 prohibiting possession of a catalytic converter unless otherwise permitted.
Ward boundaries and official city map ordinance introduction
Following a presentation, Council approved an ordinance introduction to be heard for a second reading and adoption selecting Map Option D, revising the City’s official map and ward boundaries.
Background: Population data from the 2020 Census indicates the populations of the City’s five wards need to be rebalanced to conform with the Reno City Charter.
UPDATE: This story was updated to include other city council decisions provided by city staff.
