Hundreds of Reno residents assembled at Reno City Hall on Nov. 13 for a swearing‑in ceremony that introduced the city’s newly elected officials. The event, reported by Nevada Sagebrush, highlighted a series of historic milestones for the city’s government.
Mayor‑elect Kate Marshall was the final official to take the oath. In her remarks, Marshall pledged to improve budget management, address the housing crisis, and create a proactive emergency‑response system. She described Reno as “the biggest little city” and expressed enthusiasm for working with the new council and the community.
Joining her, Zelalem “Zee” Bogale was sworn in as Reno’s first Black city attorney. Bogale, an associate professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, ran unopposed in the general election and emphasized his gratitude for leading the attorney’s office during a period of “tremendous positive change” for the city and state.
The council saw several notable firsts. Eddie Gomez, at 25, became the youngest member ever elected to represent Ward 4 and the second Latino council member. A small‑business owner, Gomez said he will streamline the permit‑approval process. His race with Meghan Ebert was decided by a 200‑vote margin. Gomez’s candidacy faced controversy after two protection orders were filed against him in October, alleging stalking and threatening behavior; Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill, who had initially endorsed him, withdrew her support.
Matt Johnson succeeded Naomi Duerr in Ward 2. A lifelong Reno resident and UNR alumnus, Johnson highlighted his commitment to “ethics, environment, and economics,” promising greater transparency, accountability, and an expansion of the city’s urban tree canopy.
Angela Gianoli was appointed as a new municipal judge. Her campaign focused on treatment‑focused alternatives to incarceration, aiming to reduce repeat offenses.
Former Mayor Hilary Schieve concluded the ceremony by inviting the new officials onto the stage, thanking them for their service. Notably absent from the ceremony was councilwoman‑candidate Kathleen Taylor, Marshall’s opponent in the mayoral race.
All officials pledged to build on the city’s progress and serve the residents of Reno. The newly sworn‑in council will convene its first regular meeting next month to begin addressing the city’s budget, housing, and public safety priorities.
Sources: nevadasagebrush.com
