Since assuming office in 2014, Reno Mayor Hilary Schieve has received credit for various initiatives revitalizing the city. Supporters frequently highlight her achievements, while critics question the accuracy of the claims and point to concerns over transparency, homelessness, and financial priorities.
A significant point of discussion is the city’s financial health. Schieve “reduced debt by approximately $385 million with the reduction over the last years being the fastest reduction in the history of Reno.”
However, an examination of available financial records indicates that the city’s total debt decreased from $648 million in 2009 to $515 million by 2014, before Schieve’s tenure. As of July 1, 2024, the city’s debt stood at $494 million, reflecting a modest reduction.
In 2018, the city refinanced the RETRAC bonds, which had an outstanding balance of approximately $230 million. By 2024, this balance was about $204 million, with the bonds’ maturity extended to 2058.
While it reduced short-term debt payments, it prolonged the city’s financial obligations. Some critics argue this refinancing was more of a restructuring than a reduction.
Schieve also worked to revitalize Reno’s MidTown District, promoting affordable housing and enhancing mental health services. Her leadership contributed to Reno receiving a $30,000 National Endowment for the Arts grant for a public art project.
Additionally, she has been instrumental in downtown redevelopment projects, including renovating the historic Crest Motel into the Renova units. However, out of 18 motels demolished, only the Crest Motel has been renovated, with limited progress on other properties acquired for redevelopment.
Critics argue that while the mayor has supported developers like Jacobs Entertainment in their efforts to clear out blighted properties, she has failed to ensure follow-through on promised affordable housing. Many of the lots remain vacant, with no clear plans for future development.
Reno has also faced growing criticism for its handling of homelessness. During Schieve’s tenure, the city has implemented sweeps of homeless encampments, pushing many unsheltered individuals out of downtown and into surrounding areas.
While the Nevada Cares Campus was to provide shelter, some advocates argue it is poorly managed and has not significantly reduced homelessness. In 2023, Reno was sued over its treatment of homeless residents, adding to the controversy.
In 2023, Schieve was elected President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Under her leadership, Reno’s General Obligation Limited Tax bond ratings were upgraded to Aa3 from A1 by Moody’s, reflecting confidence in the city’s economic stability.
However, her administration has also faced criticism for a perceived lack of transparency. One of the most significant controversies arose in late 2022 when Schieve sued a private investigator for tracking her vehicle with a GPS device.
The case raised questions about privacy, political opposition, and city governance. The lawsuit revealed that a political opponent hired the investigator, drawing attention to Shieve’s involvement in closed-door meetings and refusal to disclose certain city dealings.
Additionally, critics have accused Schieve of favoring insiders and politically connected individuals. Richard Jay, one of her most vocal supporters, serves on several boards, including the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority and the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority, each requiring mayoral appointments.
Some argue that this level of insider support raises concerns about accountability and decision-making within city government. Jay defends Schieve’s record on social media, often challenging critics to disprove claims of her success.
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