Reno's Mayor Hillary Schieve delivered her first State of the City address Tuesday night to a packed crowd at the University of Nevada Reno. Our reporter Julia Ritchey was there and says along with outlining economic development initiatives, Schieve urged local fire departments to work out their differences.
Schieve's speech focused on Reno's comeback since the Recession and new citywide initiatives to revive its downtown.
Saying it's a new day for Reno, Schieve highlighted the city's efforts to reduce blight, increase public safety and get its financial house in order.
To that end, Schieve says the city has reduced its debt by $130 million and stashed $5 million in a rainy day fund. They've also worked with police and fire unions to rework costly labor contracts.
The mayor saved her toughest words while discussing public safety. After alluding to the death of her father in a house fire this year, she forcefully called for the regional consolidation of fire departments with Washoe County.
"I know first-hand the devastation of fire and I will not be satisfied until until every citizen is protected adequately."
Calling the city a hub for startups and distribution, Schieve also announced Microsoft would spend $10 million to upgrade its local campus.
She ended the speech saying the city is finally poised to make the "Biggest Little" comeback.