KATHLEEN TAYLOR

NAME: Kathleen Taylor

AGE: 50

PARTY AFFILIATION: Republican

DAY JOB: Transportation Infrastructure Consultant

EDUCATION:

Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno with a minor in Public Administration.

HOW LONG YOU HAVE LIVED IN NEVADA: 42 years

WRITE A BRIEF (TWO TO THREE SENTENCES) SUMMARY OF YOUR PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE THAT WOULD ENABLE YOU TO PERFORM THE DUTIES OF THIS OFFICE:

In my previous role as a Planning Commissioner, I provided guidance to the City Council on key areas such as economic development, natural resource conservation, housing development, and land use decisions. My expertise includes in-depth knowledge of the Zoning Code, the Master Plan, and the entitlement process. I have also contributed as a member of the Building Enterprise Funding Advisory Committee (BEFAC). In September 2022, I was appointed to the Reno City Council, where I have served as the Councilwoman for Ward 5 for the past two years.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY IF ELECTED?

We have to maintain a balanced budget; invest in maintenance and capital projects - Placemaking and the Truckee River Plan. Create an independent Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board comprised of experts. Lead with compassion, but follow through with enforcement on Reno Municipal Court regarding nuisance crimes. Research grant opportunities and dedicate funding for our parks.

IN JUST A FEW SENTENCES: WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS THE BIGGEST PROBLEM FACING RENO, AND HOW WOULD YOU FIX IT?

We face a range of complex, interconnected challenges—homelessness, affordable housing, public safety and more needs than we can fund. We are in the process of hiring a new City Manager who will play a major role in the success of our community.

I have been focused on finding short-, mid- and long-range solutions to our homelessness and affordable housing problems. As we work on applying these solutions, we need to support our public safety officers as well as encourage more implementation from our code enforcement division.

WHAT’S YOUR PLAN TO HELP EASE THE HOUSING CRUNCH IN RENO?

Managing growth is one of the most important responsibilities the city faces. As a former Planning Commissioner and Chairwoman, I've seen firsthand the need for balance. We must focus on creating more housing while ensuring we manage our infrastructure—such as water, sewer systems, and roads—effectively to support that growth. It’s about striking the right balance between development and sustainability.

When our Community Development Division brought forward affordable housing solutions, I supported them wholeheartedly. We based our decisions on expert advice and the needs we’ve identified in the community. Affordable housing is a key priority because we know how crucial it is for the long-term health and vibrancy of our city.

Since my ward includes downtown, I'm committed to infill development. I believe the city can work to provide creative solutions and use our Redevelopment Agency to encourage investment in downtown.

The city is committed to increasing affordable housing units. Initiatives such as sewer credits and the reduction of permit fees are making a difference. It’s a collaborative effort, and I’m committed to seeing it through.

IN ONE SENTENCE: WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING VOTERS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I’m a no-nonsense problem solver when it comes to tackling complex challenges. I’m committed to creating a better future, not just for myself and my two daughters, but for the entire community. The decisions we make today are crucial for shaping the future. My mother always said "Leave it better than you found it," and that principle guides every aspect of my work and decision-making.

YES OR NO: WILL YOU ACCEPT THE RESULTS OF THIS ELECTION, WHETHER YOU WIN OR LOSE?

Yes