Jaden Urban looks into Senate Bill 319, which sets up a group to investigate all things fire-related in the county.

The Washoe County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to enter into a interlocal agreement with the City of Reno and City of Sparks during Tuesday's meeting.

In the 2025 Nevada Legislative Session, Senate Bill 319 was passed into law, requiring the county and cities to create a board to conduct a comprehensive study of the regional fire fighting efforts.

"We don't want those constraints to get in the way of making sure that we're saving lives and saving property - and that is what I think is the aim of the bill. And I think the whole region; we came together to have a regional meeting on this," said Chair Alexis Hill, Washoe County. "We want to work together. So, let's just see what the results look like." 

The board will have equal representation from all jurisdictions. There will be two Washoe County Commissioners and two council members from each Reno and Sparks.

The SB319 Study Board will be looking into ways to deliver better safety, find cost efficiencies and look into consolidation of the fire departments.

"What consolidation could mean is everything from functional collaboration to truly becoming one special district or one agency," said Chief Walt White, City of Sparks Fire Department.

Chief White says his last department was a consolidation of 16 respective agencies. He says it can be tough, but can also be worth it.

"There are initial upfront costs for any type of consolidation effort, but typically there are long term savings that are to the benefit of the public," White said.

The study and its findings must be submitted by December 31, 2026. The jurisdictions will be reaching out to a third party to help conduct the survey.

Washoe County will be taking the administrative lead on things such as scheduling the meetings and keeping records.

With all jurisdictions dealing with budget issues, they are also wanting to plan when the Nevada Legislature meets again.

"We are supposed to have some recommendations in time for the next legislative session in case we need to come back and wish for additional revenue," Hill said.

The Reno City Council will vote on the agreement in their meeting next week.

The Washoe County Commission will appoint its two members to the board some time next month.