Candidates running for Reno Mayor gathered Wednesday night at a forum to voice their values and hear the concerns of the public.
Attendees told me they want to live in a city that feels like they are cared about.
They sat in on the forum in hopes of hearing more about mental health resources for the public as well as plans for handling the homelessness crisis.
Charlotte Cox who attended the forum told us, "I want to live in a city that cares about homeless and gives them a place to hang out, like libraries that are open to every day. I want to live in a city that cares about the future and climate, and the health of the river."
Attendees and candidates both touched on the rapid rate of growth Reno has been seeing.
Both sides said they don't want to stop the growth, but want to find a way to maintain it without current residents dealing with the consequences.
Some attendees believe new homes are being built without the proper regulations being enforced beforehand.
Cox said, "It just seems like they, they are building lots of places. I don't know that they're affordable, and what's that about? And also, I'm looking at, we're in debt right? And so we need a different way. I feel like coming to the next century and, figure out how to make money without having to sell out."
Many people we spoke with said events like these are crucial to American democracy.
They want to ensure their voices are heard but also give those running for positions of power an opportunity to share their values and what they're hoping to change if elected.
Debbie Heaton-Lamp who also attended the forum told us, "I'd like to hear the difference between them. I'm very curious. I've been to city council meetings. I've been to planning commission meetings. I've been a county commissioner meetings. And it's really important to how they're able to present topics, how they're able to deal with difficult issues and controversial issues, and, handle it in a respectful way."
If you weren't able to make it to the forum, you can watch the entire recording on the video section of our website.
Candidates for Reno Mayor gathered for a community forum on May 13th to discuss issues important to their campaigns.
