This Is Reno Radio

This Is Reno
  • 4.6 (16)
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  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

This Is Reno Radio is a podcast from Reno, Nevada featuring news, interviews, analysis and more. The hosts are Bob Conrad and Kristen Hackbarth, This Is Reno's editors.

  1. Police training scandal, housing crisis, heat mitigation and city hall tensions

    MAY 8

    Police training scandal, housing crisis, heat mitigation and city hall tensions

    In this May 7, 2026 episode of the This Is Reno podcast, hosts Kristen Hackbarth and Bob Conrad dive into a packed week of local news, ranging from controversial Reno Police Department training records to growing frustration over city spending priorities, homelessness statistics and the future of the historic Lear Theater. Episode description We unpack new details surrounding questionable training records involving command staff at the Reno Police Department. Ongoing investigations are examining whether mandatory police training requirements were properly completed and documented, according to several sources. Training records obtained by This Is Reno were called “bizarre” by members of local law enforcement. We also discuss criticism over Reno’s proposed police budget increase, public frustration with surveillance technology partnerships and calls from residents to prioritize housing, mental health response services, and community investment over expanded policing. The episode covers Washoe County’s developing heat mitigation plan, renewed controversy over the future of the historic Lear Theater and ongoing concerns about how local officials present homelessness data to the public. Throughout the show, we highlight a growing disconnect between local government leadership and frustrated residents who feel their concerns are increasingly being ignored. Also included is our May Day protest coverage and the acting Reno Police Chief’s response to resident concerns about Flock license plate readers.  We conclude by reflecting on rising tensions in Reno surrounding affordability, governance, policing and public trust. Across multiple issues, residents increasingly want greater transparency, accountability and involvement in decisions affecting the community. Stay current on Reno news by subscribing to our free daily newsletter. This Is Reno Newsletter This summary was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by us. Support the show

    52 min
  2. Data centers, Washoe County investigation and the next school superintendent

    APR 27

    Data centers, Washoe County investigation and the next school superintendent

    Kristen Hackbarth and Bob Conrad break down several major local stories shaping Reno and Washoe County. Topics include Reno’s reversal on regulating data centers, allegations of mismanagement within Washoe County housing and homeless services, the Washoe County School District superintendent search, ethics questions involving the District Attorney’s Office and renewed controversy over the Lear Theater. We also preview our 2026 local election guide and examine RTC’s attempted land negotiations involving Wooster High School.  Reno data center debate intensifies Reno City Council’s unanimous decision to begin developing standards and requirements for data centers came only after months of public concern. Residents have raised issues about water use, power demand, tax incentives, noise and limited long-term job creation. We discuss political tensions surrounding calls for a moratorium and shifting positions by one local politician.  Tahoe timeshare trouble A legal dispute involving Club Tahoe involves owners who alleged long-running governance problems, poor maintenance and lack of transparency from board leadership. A judge appointed outside oversight to manage elections and operations.  Downtown Reno noise complaints continue Recent code enforcement complaints focused on loud bass and vibration from events near J Resort and Glow Plaza. A city of Reno employee filed a code complaint. He reported shaking walls and windows from music events.  Washoe County internal investigation A bit portion of this episode centers on an internal investigation involving Washoe County Housing and Homeless Services. An internal report described billing issues, contractor payment concerns and operational problems affecting shelters. We discuss county criticism over release of the report and public accountability questions.  School district superintendent search Washoe County School District’s decision to move forward with a single internal candidate rather than conduct a national search has drawn criticism. We discuss whether succession planning provides stability or limits competition and transparency in leadership hiring.  Ethics complaint against district attorney An ethics complaint has been filed against District Attorney Chris Hicks involving allegations connected to workplace hierarchy and family employment relationships. The complaint stems from Bob’s investigation into nepotism allegations against Hicks. Election guide preview We preview our local election guide featuring candidate responses to reader-submitted questions. Key topics include climate change, food systems, housing and services for older residents. The guide focuses on Reno-area races and legislative seats.  Lear Theatre frustration grows There are continued delays over the future of the historic Lear Theatre. After public engagement sessions and multiple past studies, city leaders opted to issue another request for proposals rather than commit to stabilization or redevelopment.  RTC and Wooster High School land proposal A Regional Transportation Commission agenda item proposed negotiations to purchase part of Wooster High School property for a replacement transit facility. The item was later pulled after the school district said it had not been notified.  Stay current on Reno news by subscribing to our free daily newsletter: https://thisisreno.com/newsletter/ This summary was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by us. Support the show

    58 min
  3. DA nepotism allegations, a facial recognition lawsuit update and the downtown policing controversy

    APR 6

    DA nepotism allegations, a facial recognition lawsuit update and the downtown policing controversy

    This week's This Is Reno podcast covers a range of Reno and Washoe County news, from a whip craft art exhibit at the Holland Project to local political and legal developments.  Hosts Bob Conrad and Kristen Hackbarth discuss the Washoe Republicans' decision to endorse primary candidates despite criticism, a months-long investigation into alleged nepotism in the Washoe County District Attorney's office and a federal lawsuit filed by former interim Registrar of Voters Carrie Ann Burgess alleging retaliation.  🎨 "Whip Craft" exhibit and Reno’s whip ban A new exhibit called "Whip Craft" has opened at the Holland Project, highlighting the art and craft of whip making. Reno has a whip ban in place, but incidents of whip cracking continue, including one observed recently near the Wells Avenue bridge.  🏛️ Washoe Republicans and primary endorsements Commissioner Mike Clark raised concerns that the Washoe County Republican Central Committee — roughly 120 members out of approximately 100,000 registered Republicans in the county — voted to endorse candidates in primary elections, a practice both Clark and the national group Red Move discourage.  ⚖️ DA's office nepotism investigation Bob details a months-long investigation into alleged nepotism in the Washoe County District Attorney's office. The series centers on DA Chris Hicks and his wife, Nicole Hicks, who was promoted to a chief deputy position in December 2024, placing her in a direct reporting line under her husband.  📋 Carrie Ann Burgess lawsuit Former interim Washoe County Registrar of Voters Carrie Ann Burgess has filed a federal lawsuit alleging retaliation and discrimination after she was terminated the day after the county appointed a permanent replacement. Burgess's legal team has moved to disqualify the DA's office, noting it previously represented her in a related matter. 🤖 Facial recognition false arrest lawsuit update A federal judge dismissed the false arrest claim in the Jason Killinger lawsuit against a Reno police officer, finding no legal precedent establishing that a facial recognition-based arrest is unlawful. However, the judge allowed a municipal liability claim to proceed, and the city of Reno is now a defendant in the case.  🚔 Downtown policing and redevelopment funds Mayor Hilary Schieve has pushed to use Reno Redevelopment Agency funds to pay for downtown policing, despite legal analysis indicating that use would likely conflict with state law governing how redevelopment funds may be spent. A proposed workaround involves splitting Assistant City Manager Ashley Turney's salary between city and RDA funds and charging police time spent on blight-related calls to RDA accounts.  📹 Re-Secure program and surveillance concerns The city is preparing to introduce a pilot program called Re-Secure, which would offer grants of up to $5,000 to properties in redevelopment areas to upgrade security infrastructure such as cameras. Any cameras installed must be approved by the Reno Police Department and integrated into the FUSUS surveillance system.  📰 AI in journalism and reader support We close by discussing the role of AI in This Is Reno reporting, noting it is used to assist with writing community information pieces but does not replace original reporting. We mention the tension between paywalls and accessibility, arguing that direct reader support reduces reliance on advertisers and potential conflicts of interest.  Stay current on Reno news by subscribing to our free daily newsletter: https://thisisreno.com/newsletter/. This summary was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by us. Support the show

    1 hr
  4. Investigation into Reno police leadership continues; major development approved

    MAR 21

    Investigation into Reno police leadership continues; major development approved

    Bob Conrad and Kristen Hackbarth discuss the latest Reno news headlines, including a large-scale voter roll cleanup ahead of the June primary, approval of a major south Reno housing project and an ongoing investigation into Reno Police Department leadership. We also examine rising Waste Management fees, the latest in code-enforcement complaints and proposed nonprofit regulations. Election update: Voter roll cleanup ahead of June primary Washoe County’s registrar of voters reported that about 87,000 voter registrations were removed as part of routine maintenance, leaving about 312,000 active voters. Most of those removed had not participated in multiple recent elections or had moved out of the area, reflecting what officials describe as standard list maintenance required by Nevada law.  South Reno development approved after debate Washoe County commissioners approved a 720-acre housing project south of Pleasant Valley following hours of public comment and debate. The project has been in development for decades and has evolved into a lower-density plan consisting primarily of single-family homes, with roughly 60% of the land preserved as open space.  Reno police department investigation continues An ongoing investigation involving Reno Police Department leadership remains one of the biggest recent stories. Most of RPD’s command staff have been placed on leave as part of inquiries that may involve training certification compliance and potential fraud related to required POST training. RPD oversight shifted to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Officials have released limited information, and the situation remains fluid as investigations continue. Waste Management fees to increase Reno residents will see an increase in garbage collection fees beginning April 1 as the city works to address a budget shortfall. The increase is expected to be about $30 to $40 annually per household depending on service levels.  City officials have said the adjustment is necessary to help close a $24 million gap, driven by rising personnel and operational costs not matching tax income. The increase is one of the few revenue tools available to the city through its franchise agreement with Waste Management. City considers nonprofit registration requirements Reno officials are evaluating whether nonprofits operating in the city should be required to register, similar to businesses. The proposal is aimed at improving oversight, allowing the city to better track facilities and enforce safety standards.  County reviews equine business regulations Washoe County is reviewing potential updates to regulations governing horse-related businesses as part of a broader effort to preserve the region’s rural character. The proposed changes are intended to support equine facilities such as stables and riding arenas, which some officials say are increasingly at risk due to ongoing development pressures. Public meetings and outreach efforts are planned to gather community input before any changes are adopted. Many of the issues discussed in this episode reflect challenges linked to rapid population growth in the Truckee Meadows. As the region expands, local governments are facing increased demand for housing, pressure on infrastructure and rising costs of public services. These issues are contributing to policy decisions that often require balancing development, community concerns and long-term planning priorities. Stay current on Reno news by subscribing to our free daily newsletter. This summary was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by us. Support the show

    46 min
  5. AI facial-recognition lawsuit: City attorney accuses plaintiff of conspiracy with This Is Reno

    MAR 5

    AI facial-recognition lawsuit: City attorney accuses plaintiff of conspiracy with This Is Reno

    In this episode of This Is Reno Radio, editors Kristen Hackbarth and Bob Conrad discuss the latest developments in a federal lawsuit stemming from a wrongful arrest at the Peppermill Casino. The case focuses on using facial recognition technology for arrests by the Reno Police Department. We cover how the Reno City Attorney’s Office filed false statements in federal court documents, statements alleging a conspiracy between This Is Reno’s Conrad and the plaintiff’s attorney, Terri Keyser Cooper. The podcast also addresses concerns about AI policing practices, public records transparency and access to civil rights legal representation in northern Nevada. This episode was recorded February 26, 2026. The case’s origin  The episode opens with a recap of the original incident involving Jason Killinger, who was arrested at the Peppermill Casino after being flagged by facial recognition software as someone else. Despite presenting valid identification, he was detained for about four hours and arrested for trespass by a Reno police officer. The story gained national attention after body camera footage was published online. While widespread outside Reno, local news media have ignored the story.  Officer apologizes, admits lack of training Newly filed court documents reveal deposition testimony from the police officer, Richard Jager, who acknowledged he had not received training on facial recognition technology and arrests. He apologized to the plaintiff during a deposition. Reno police held a training in September 2025, stating that facial recognition alone is not sufficient probable cause for an arrest. This occurred well after the lawsuit had already been filed. The plaintiff has moved to amend the lawsuit to include a Fourth Amendment violation and add the city of Reno as a defendant. Fabricated claims The episode addresses a response filed by the Reno City Attorney’s Alice Herbolsheimer that alleged case details were improperly shared with the media. Herbolsheimer wanted Keyser-Cooper investigated by the Nevada State Bar. This Is Reno’s reporting, however, came directly from the publicly filed court documents to which Herbolsheimer was responding. An errata was later filed by her correcting part of the record, though Conrad argues more needs to be corrected and clarified. Legal and ethical questions The discussion covers other issues, including: Whether previous arrests using facial recognition could face legal challenges,Allegations in filings that media coverage contributed to threats against the officer andThe role of public records like PACER in court reporting.The episode also touches on challenges in finding civil rights attorneys in Reno willing to take on cases against local police. AI-based policing accountability We conclude by reflecting on Increasing reliance on AI in law enforcement, transparency in public institutions, ethical responsibilities of government attorneys and the balance between judicial proceedings and public accountability through the media. 👉 Stay current on Reno news: https://thisisreno.com/newsletter/ Support the show

    45 min
  6. Inside ‘Copaganda’: Alec Karakatsanis on media, policing and public perception

    FEB 24

    Inside ‘Copaganda’: Alec Karakatsanis on media, policing and public perception

    This Is Reno publisher Bob Conrad speaks with civil rights attorney and author Alec Karakatsanis about his book “Copaganda.” The talk was one of The Radical Cat bookstore’s author talks and was streamed by Radical Cat online Thursday, Feb. 18.  The conversation explores how police public relations efforts shape mainstream news media narratives, influence public perception of crime and impact policy decisions at local and national levels. From killings by police to body-worn cameras and expanding surveillance technology, this show covers the intersection of journalism, police propaganda and accountability reporting. Karakatsanis discusses what he calls the “punishment bureaucracy” and offers recommendations for journalists and citizens seeking to critically evaluate police activity. KWNK 97.7 FM runs This Is Reno Radio on Sundays at 7. 1. What is “Copaganda”? Karakatsanis defines “copaganda” as messaging that narrows the public perception of safety and threats, amplifies fear of certain crimes and populations, and promotes policing and incarceration as main solutions. He argues that media framing focuses on street crime while overlooking corporate misconduct, environmental harms and systemic issues.  2. Media framing and police narratives The conversation discusses journalist responsibilities when covering police activity. Conrad shares examples from Reno where local reporting of police activities is either scant or favors government narratives. Media outlets may rely heavily on police press releases, leading to uniform coverage across platforms. The discussion also covers national coverage following protests in 2020 and how news media characterized police actions as “missteps” rather than systemic issues or criminal actions. 3. Body-worn cameras and transparency claims The pair also discuss body-worn cameras. Karakatsanis argues that these devices were promoted as accountability tools but are frequently used in low-level prosecutions and plea-bargaining processes. Karakatsanis and Conrad also talk about surveillance systems such as license plate readers, ShotSpotter and integrated camera networks. Karakatsanis questions whether such technologies address root causes of crime, emphasizing broader structural factors like inequality, housing access and healthcare. 4. The “punishment bureaucracy” Karakatsanis explains his use of the term “punishment bureaucracy,” which he uses instead of “criminal justice system.” He argues that the phrase better captures the interconnected institutions involved: police, prosecutors, courts, jails, prisons, probation systems and private industries tied to incarceration. 5. Academic Copaganda The conversation also covers academic research and public policy. Karakatsanis critiques certain studies advocating increased police staffing, arguing that research framing and messenger credibility can influence public debate. He provides book recommendations for listeners seeking more on the history of police. 6. Local Reno issues and public records Conrad closes the conversation with examples from Nevada, including challenges in obtaining unredacted body-worn camera footage. He references litigation related to officer image redaction under Nevada’s Peace Officer Bill of Rights and the Nevada Supreme Court’s decision to uphold redactions. The episode concludes with reflections on the role of independent local journalism in scrutinizing official narratives. This summary was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by us. Support the show

    1 hr
  7. ICE Out walkouts, Reno’s budget crisis and ongoing property management complaints

    FEB 7

    ICE Out walkouts, Reno’s budget crisis and ongoing property management complaints

    This episode of This Is Reno Radio dives deep into the local ripple effects of national immigration enforcement, as Reno-area students stage unprecedented walkouts in protest of federal ICE actions. Recorded Feb. 1, hosts Kristen Hackbarth and Bob Conrad discuss the community’s response, challenges in property management and the city of Reno’s ongoing financial crisis. We close with a look at the future of Hot August Nights and the evolving political landscape leading into local elections. 1. ICE Out student walkouts High school and middle school students across Washoe County staged large-scale walkouts protesting federal immigration enforcement after the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by government agents. Thirteen of the county’s 15 main high schools participated, joined by Carson City students a day earlier. Hundreds of protesters gathered at Reno City Plaza. 2. Community reactions Online reactions ranged from praise to criticism. Many adults accused students of being misled, but others applauded their civic engagement. We discuss Reno’s protest history, noting that this youth-led movement marked an unprecedented moment in local activism. 3. Journalism, photography and public spaces We address concerns from individuals asking that protest photos be removed from news reports and explain our stance on protecting journalistic integrity and the public’s right to document in public spaces. 4. Housing and code enforcement issues Local housing management complaints continue, particularly at Sky Vista Commons and The Vintage at the Crossings—properties managed by FPI Management and now, reportedly, Asset Living. Despite reassurances to the Reno City Council, tenants continue to report serious maintenance problems, including contaminated water and lack of heat. 5. Reno’s budget crisis and labor costs The city of Reno faces a projected $24 million budget deficit for fiscal year 2027. Officials plan to hire a law firm for nearly $1 million to handle “complex labor negotiations.” Rising public employee compensation and PERS contributions are cited as major cost drivers. Some residents question whether these expenses will yield measurable benefits. 6. Hot August Nights and ‘Street Heat’ A new car show called “Street Heat” will debut at the Grand Sierra Resort during Hot August Nights in 2026. Though organizers say it’s a complementary event, it signals a fragmentation in the once-unified festival scene. 7. Political outlook We tease future coverage of local elections, including the crowded race for Nevada’s Second Congressional District.  Stay current on Reno news by subscribing to our free daily newsletter. This summary was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by us. Support the show

    45 min
  8. Affordable housing in Reno: What residents and records reveal about FPI Management

    JAN 24

    Affordable housing in Reno: What residents and records reveal about FPI Management

    This Is Reno’s Kristen Hackbarth and Bob Conrad unpack a year-long investigation into FPI Management, a national property management firm overseeing multiple affordable and senior housing complexes in Reno. Drawing from public records, resident interviews, court records and city council discussions, this podcast examines recurring maintenance problems, code violations and allegations of tenant intimidation. The conversation also covers the city of Reno’s response, including potential legal and regulatory actions. How it began We open with how routine coverage of Reno City Council meetings led us to notice repeated complaints tied to affordable Vintage Housing projects. These properties shared a common manager: FPI Management. What began as a single housing story expanded into a year-long investigation involving site visits, resident interviews and extensive public records requests. Conditions inside FPI-managed properties We discuss on-the-ground observations at Vintage Housing properties, including broken doors, deteriorating materials, faulty flooring, unreliable HVAC systems and long delays in repairs. Residents — many of them seniors — reported extended periods without heat, reliance on space heaters, sanitation issues and safety concerns related to snow removal, garbage buildup and pests. Limited penalties Reno’s code enforcement process allows landlords time to address issues before inspections occur. Documentation showed repeat violations and minimal fines, often capped at a few hundred dollars. City officials acknowledged publicly that these penalties appear to have little impact on a large corporate property manager. Tenant retaliation and legal disputes Several tenants alleged they were threatened with eviction after raising complaints. One case involving a senior resident drew community support and ended with a judge dismissing the eviction attempt. Fear of retaliation may discourage vulnerable tenants from reporting problems. National lawsuits Beyond Reno, FPI Management has faced lawsuits and investigations in multiple states, including allegations related to misleading marketing, pricing practices and leasing policies. These issues mirror complaints seen locally, suggesting systemic problems rather than isolated incidents. Next steps A recent city council meeting featured strong statements from elected officials, including Mayor Hillary Schieve and council member Naomi Duerr, who said they will contact Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford and explore options such as revoking business licenses. We talk about whether these discussions will lead to concrete enforcement or policy changes. We conclude by discussing the disconnect between celebrating new affordable housing developments and ensuring long-term, livable conditions for residents. Without stronger oversight and incentives, problems tied to corporate property management may continue across Nevada. Stay current on Reno news by subscribing to our free daily newsletter. 👉 https://thisisreno.com/newsletter/ This summary was generated with the assistance of AI and edited by us. Support the show

    37 min
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4.6
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

This Is Reno Radio is a podcast from Reno, Nevada featuring news, interviews, analysis and more. The hosts are Bob Conrad and Kristen Hackbarth, This Is Reno's editors.

Information

  • Creator
    This Is Reno
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    94
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Conrad Communications
  • Show Website
    This Is Reno Radio

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