The Reno City Council listened to dozens of public comment Wednesday night about a proposed asphalt recycling facility in Verdi, that's drawing a lot of opposition from residents.
After nearly five hours of meeting, the council made a decision. The City of Reno decided to annex the property and take jurisdiction of the land. And in regard to the special use permit to operate a rock crushing facility on the site, the city unanimously denied it.
More than 270 residents sent in letters to the city against the project, and about 157 were sent in support, but only 5 people were present to speak during public comment.
39 Ventures, the developer for the proposed asphalt plant tried to get approval to make recycled construction products used for roadways in Verdi. But for several months, Verdi residents have been battling the construction site in their community.
One resident said, "The real key issue here is the impact on people."
"Honestly we would not like to see it in our area. We would welcome about just any other form of business in this location. This is just too industrial, too invasive, it's too overwhelming for the community,” says Carly Borchard, Verdi Community Council.
Ryan Kautz, the developer of 39 Ventures said, "My project is environmentally sensitive, met city requirements, and would improve operations on the site."
Residents are relieved that a rock crushing facility will not impact their community. Dozens spoke on record about the traffic, noise, and environmental effects from the proposed plant. Kautz disagreed. He said the site would not be any noisier than the trains and trucks that drive by. He added that environment tests have been done.
But things didn't go so well for 39 Venture with the city denying the requests made. The developer did not want to comment on the outcome, but the residents we spoke to are happy it went in their favor.
