Shaping Reno’s Future: A Balanced Approach to Data Centers
A clear, strategic and sensible approach to data center development ensures Reno’s growth is competitive, community-driven, and built for long-term success.
During the February 26, 2025, Reno City Council meeting, our proposal for a temporary pause on new data center permits — along with a directive for staff to research and develop a proposed framework within a time-certain period — resulted in a 3-3 tie, effectively maintaining the status quo (agenda item D.2). While this outcome wasn't what many had hoped for, it underscores the need for continued discussion on how Reno evaluates these projects to ensure they generate long-term benefits for both our community and private investors, while allowing us to move forward with purpose and agility.
Strategic Growth with Sensibility
Our aim isn't to halt progress but to advise on and approach data center development with strategic sensibility — ensuring that decisions are made with foresight, practicality, and a common-sense approach that works for people and businesses alike. Growth should be both ambitious and adaptable, allowing Reno to remain competitive while ensuring development serves the public interest. This also means aligning our approach with the Reno Master Plan, which sets the vision for thoughtful, sustainable growth that balances economic opportunity with infrastructure capacity, environmental stewardship, and quality of life. A well-structured framework for data centers isn’t just about policy — it’s about ensuring that as Reno grows, it does so in a way that reflects our shared priorities and long-term vision.
Making Government Work Better
Government works — but it can work better. The public review process is an essential part of making government more effective, responsive, and driven by the people it serves. When we engage in thoughtful, forward-looking policy discussions, we create opportunities for streamlined decision-making without sacrificing transparency or accountability. A well-designed framework ensures that projects can move forward efficiently — giving both businesses and the community predictability, clarity, and a shared sense of investment in Reno’s future.
Ongoing Conversations & Next Steps
Since the February 26th City Council meeting, I’ve continued conversations with state leaders and private sector partners, mainly to listen and better understand their perspectives as we explore solutions that balance economic growth with community well-being. No decisions have been made — nor should they be — without broad, cross-sector engagement. These conversations are an essential starting point, grounded in both listening and research. Progress begins with understanding, and only through open, thoughtful collaboration can we shape a clear, comprehensive framework that ensures data centers serve Reno’s long-term interests as both a hub for innovation and a thriving community.
A Commitment to Smart Growth
Moving forward, I remain committed to fostering:
Collaboration – Engaging council members, city staff, business leaders, and residents to craft policies that ensure data center growth benefits Reno’s economy and its people.
Transparency – Providing clear, accessible information so the community understands the long-term implications of these projects and has a voice in shaping solutions.
Smart Growth – Encouraging a framework that supports technological advancement while safeguarding Reno’s infrastructure, fiscal health, and quality of life.
Keeping the Conversation Going
I appreciate the council members who have thus far supported the proposed resolution and recognized the need to re-evaluate our current data center ordinance (Council members Ebert, Duerr and Martinez). Their willingness to engage in open dialogue exemplifies the positive outcomes of mutual listening and learning. I invite all council members to join this ongoing conversation, as their insights are invaluable to our collective progress.
I’m also grateful for the strong civic engagement we’ve already seen from residents, businesses, and stakeholders on this issue — it’s a testament to how much our community cares about Reno’s future. Your participation matters. Please continue lending your voices at upcoming Planning Commission meetings, including City Council, as your involvement is essential in shaping a future where innovation and community well-being go hand in hand — whether on data centers or any other planning, development, or growth matter that shapes Reno’s future.
A Smarter Path Forward
Reno’s growth shouldn’t be a gamble — it should be a win for both business and community. The conversation on data centers isn’t over. Together, we can ensure that Reno’s growth is not just rapid but smart, sustainable, and mutually beneficial.
#OneTeam #RenoHeartsYou