Reno City Councils New Measures Spark Debate Over Public Space Use

On Wednesday, Reno City Council members discussed and passed six ordinances that prohibit sitting, sleeping, or camping in public spaces, including sidewalks, streets, alleys, sensitive areas, or doorways. Ordinance F.1 passed with a 5-1 vote, while ordinances F.2 through F.6 were approved unanimously. The meeting generated controversy, as some people supported the measures while others argued they unfairly target homeless individuals. Tara Tran expressed concerns that the ordinances criminalize homelessness, while Coleman Smith supported them for reducing perceived threats and crime. The focus is on the Downtown Reno Regional Center and the Truckee River Corridor. Violators may be asked to leave, fined, or charged with a misdemeanor. Enforcement will begin after administrative work and public education are completed, which could take a month or longer, according to Chief Nance of the Reno Police Department.