The Reno Housing Authority has agreed to lease land and two buildings adjacent to the Cares Campus on 4th Street in Reno to Washoe County for approximately six months. This will allow the county to open a Cold Weather Shelter.
RHA held an emergency meeting Tuesday, Dec. 7 to expedite the agreement with the county to allow them immediate use in anticipation of the extreme cold weather expected this week.
Amy Jones, the Executive Director of the RHA says "The county asked us this Monday "Can we expedite this lease" and make it happen so we can get individuals that are homeless out of the weather these next few days."
RHA officially took possession of the property today. The county lease also begins on December 8th. The cost to Washoe County for the two buildings and about 2 acres of the parcel is $1.
Bethany Drysdale, the Spokesperson for Washoe County tells us "We are expanding into this area behind me, 2 acres of land and 2 buildings, that we can add more beds and more warming areas."
Jones mentions "So this edition is going to help those that are out in the elements have a safe warm place to sleep over the next few days."
Drysdale adds "The Cares Campus and the Emergency Shelter is intended to house people who are in emergency need of a roof over their heads."
“Providing support and services for those experiencing homelessness is a regional effort, and I’m proud to count the Reno Housing Authority as a partner,” Washoe County Manager Eric Brown said. “This land lease will allow us to expand our services while keeping them central to the Cares Campus.”
Reno Mayor and RHA Board Member Hillary Schieve also applauded the joint effort. “Cold weather means added stress on our homeless population. It’s critical we do what we can for those who need immediate shelter and this lease agreement helps ensure there is an additional safe, warm space for them this winter,” she said. “I’m grateful to RHA and the county for their assistance in aiding our community.”
The site contains three buildings and was formerly used as RV storage. It was acquired by RHA with support from the cities of Reno and Sparks, and Washoe County.
Minor construction will take place to ensure the space meets municipal fire code for short-term overnight stays.
Jones says "The Housing Authority just wants to be good community partners and support the local jurisdictions and those who are in our community."
She adds, it makes more sense to look at this site for alternative uses in Washoe County as the weather gets colder, and seeing the increase in the homeless population.
Drysdale says "Our intention all along was to expand to other areas, we're so happy to have this area that was Reno Housing Authority and now leased to us for at least 6 months."
Negotiations are currently happening, and will be for the next few months regarding ownership for Washoe County in the future.
