Open Space and Regional Parks | October 26, 2026

The October 26, 2026 special concurrent joint meeting of the City of Reno Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, City of Sparks Park and Recreation Commission, and Washoe County Open Space and Regional Parks Commission focused on Pros Consulting’s presentation of a proposed regional parks, trails, and open-space district framework. The consultants described the existing systems as underfunded and outlined a potential district serving Reno, Sparks, southern Washoe County, and Sun Valley. They cited a combined current budget of about $35 million, including roughly $25 million in general-fund support, and discussed a possible voter-approved parcel assessment intended to generate about $20 million annually—approximately $8.33 per month per parcel—bringing potential annual resources to about $57 million. These figures and funding mechanisms were proposals for further study, not approved allocations; a long-term tax-sharing agreement, possible bond measures, and other revenue sources were also discussed.

No contract award, purchasing decision, or procurement vote was identified. The boards approved the meeting agenda and later adjourned, but took no action to form the district or approve the proposed funding. The consultants said they would bring recommendations to the individual commissions in the coming months, with further consideration by city councils and the county commission; additional work would address governance, agency integration, staffing and support services, asset conditions, and lease or transfer agreements. Public commenters supported the initiative and emphasized sustainable funding and maintenance. A speaker also noted that existing residential construction taxes and park impact fees are limited to capital uses under current law.