RENO - Washoe County commissioners unanimously have opposed an annexation request that would pave the way for 5,700 homes in a rural area 15 miles north of Reno.
Commissioners last week criticized the city of Reno's proposed annexation of 7,044 acres in Cold Springs. The request is being made by 11 property owners, led by Lifestyle Homes.
Among other concerns, commissioners question if the proposal meets the requirements of the regional plan to stop sprawl and expand cities only when needed. Commissioners also contend the city has failed to analyze the fiscal impacts of the annexation on the region.
If approved, the annexation also could clear the way for an 1,100-acre business park with as many as 33,000 workers on the Heinz Ranch.
The City Council last week tentatively approved the annexation request.
The county has asked the city for a continuance of up to six months to give residents a chance to comment on the proposal and to allow updating of the community development plan for the Cold Springs area.
Many Cold Springs residents also oppose the request. Under a 2002 regional plan, growth is limited in unincorporated areas of Washoe County such as Cold Springs.
