Data Centers Emerge as Key Issue in Reno Mayoral Race
Data center development has emerged as a central and contentious issue in the Reno mayoral race. Candidates Kate Marshall and Kathleen Taylor are clashing over past votes on data center tax breaks and the city's moratorium. Their differing stances on data centers reflect broader visions for the city's future.
The Reno mayoral race, featuring Kate Marshall and Kathleen Taylor, has made data center development a central and contentious issue. Marshall, a former Nevada treasurer and lieutenant governor, is being attacked by Taylor in a TV ad for her 2020 vote in favor of a data center tax break. Marshall defends her vote, citing necessary approval and environmental guardrails she pushed for.
Marshall has expressed long-standing opposition to data centers within city limits and supported a data center moratorium. Conversely, Taylor, a current Reno City Councilmember, voted against the city's moratorium earlier this year, labeling it "political theater." Although she recently stated opposition to data centers near neighborhoods, Taylor previously voted against initiating city code changes for data centers and instead advocated for fast-tracking such changes.
This debate highlights the divergent visions the two candidates have for Reno, particularly amidst the city's precarious budget situation and rising housing costs. Other city council races in southeastern and northeastern Reno also feature new candidates and incumbents discussing hyperlocal issues, though data centers are less prominent in these specific contests.