In a move to enhance city services, the Reno City Council recently approved several key initiatives during their regular meeting, aiming to improve community safety, infrastructure, and cultural engagement. These decisions reflect the Council’s commitment to fostering a safer and more vibrant city.
Reno Police Department Introduces Drone Program
One of the significant decisions was the approval of a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program for the Reno Police Department (RPD). This initiative, in collaboration with the Real Time Information Center (RTIC), involves deploying four BRINC Responder drones equipped with real-time video, thermal imaging, and emergency communication systems. These drones aim to reach incident scenes before officers, providing enhanced safety and situational awareness. The program, funded by BRINC MSI for the first year, plans to launch in April 2026, with a potential six-year cost of $1,919,980 if continued past the pilot phase.
2026 Permanent Patch Program Contract Awarded
The Council also awarded a contract to West Coast Paving, Inc. for the 2026 Permanent Patch Program, not exceeding $2,100,000. This program, funded through asphalt fees from excavation permits, ensures high-quality pavement restoration after utility cuts. This long-standing initiative helps maintain uniform pavement conditions and manage maintenance costs as construction increases.
Residential Construction Tax Funding for Community Projects
Several community projects received funding from the Residential Construction Tax (RCT). Notably, Summit Line Construction, Inc. was contracted for $224,225 to replace deteriorating lights at Hilltop Park’s northern ballfield. Additionally, lighting equipment for this project will be acquired from Musco Sports Lighting LLC for $162,398. Another significant approval was the purchase of a prefabricated bridge for Teglia’s Paradise Park from Wheeler Lumber LLC, costing $126,200, to replace a non-ADA-compliant pedestrian bridge.
Arts and Culture Grants for 2026
The Council allocated Room Tax Funds to various organizations, totaling $91,484 for events and $88,591 for projects. These grants challenge arts and culture nonprofits to serve Reno’s under-invested populations and foster innovative partnerships. Among the recipients for event grants are the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts and Latino Arte and Culture, while project grants were awarded to Arts for All Nevada and Build Our Center, among others.
Board Appointments
- Vice Mayor Miguel Martinez was appointed to the Regional Fire Study Board established under Senate Bill 319.
- Daren McDonald was reappointed to the Financial Advisory Board.
Other News
Reno City Council meetings are available for live streaming at Reno.Gov/Meetings and can be watched on Charter Spectrum – Channel 194. Past meetings are accessible on the City of Reno’s YouTube channel.
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