UPDATE: Aug. 1: The council removed the agenda item for discussion because city staff incorrectly listed the ordinance to be changed. The issue will be heard at a future meeting.
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The Reno City Council on Wednesday is scheduled to hear a new ordinance that will make it illegal to be near railroad tracks.
“A person would be considered trespassing if they enter or remain within 100 feet of a railroad track without the permission of the owner of the land,” a city staff report notes. The reason for the new rule is safety concerns.
Staff also said they would not post signs noting areas where trespassing could occur, as normally required. Not mentioned in the staff report is what officials call ongoing problems with homeless encampments and Union Pacific not cleaning properties on a regular basis. The city has fined Union Pacific for code violations.
“My understanding is they are having significant issues getting safety vehicles and personnel into these areas due to encampments and people,” said Neoma Jardon, head of the Downtown Reno Partnership, which has cited difficulty with Union Pacific. “I do know our Ambassadors remove enormous amounts of debris adjacent to the tracks. And they frequently encounter fires, fights and weapons along the tracks as well. I’m glad the city is taking this action.
“I fear a catastrophic event if these areas aren’t secured and kept clear,” she added. “Fires, plus fast-moving trains, plus flammable fuel tankers, plus people is a recipe for disaster.”
At least one homeless advocate criticized the city for what they said was rushing the ordinance without public input – and for targeting those living without shelter.
“I am particularly troubled by how quickly it is being pushed through. It was only introduced last week,” said Ilya Arbatman. “Now, in just a week’s time, they already have the whole thing written up and ready for a first reading.”
The new ordinance was requested by Council members at their July 24 meeting and follows the Council’s unanimous acceptance of a report on April 24, which called for potential solutions to address issues in the railroad corridor. If approved, the ordinance introduction will be the first step in the legislative process. The City Council will need to vote on its adoption in a future meeting before the ordinance is enacted.
