Scenic Nevada sues Reno over Neon Line District archway, signs

RENO, Nev. (News 4 & FOX 11) — The nonprofit Scenic Nevada filed a lawsuit this month against the city of Reno challenging a developer's plan to build an archway and signs identifying the so-called Neon Line District.

In the lawsuit, filed in the Second Judicial District Court on Nov. 19, lawyers for Scenic Nevada argue that the city's approval of an archway and two large signs in a development agreement was illegal.

Reno city council members approved the 20-year development agreement with Jacobs Entertainment in October. Under the document, developers outlined plans to transform an area west of downtown Reno along W. 4th St. in exchange for certain concessions from the city.

But the lawsuit specifically challenges the developer's plan to construct a large archway over W. 4th St. between Keystone Ave. and Vine St., as well as two other Neon Line District signs nearby.

Mark Wray, Scenic Nevada's legal counsel for 15 years, told News 4-Fox 11 that part of the archway would be built on a city-owned property, which he said is not allowed under the terms of development agreements.

"This case presents a situation in which the city and developers entered into a development agreement for parcels in which the developers had no legal or equitable interest," the lawsuit said, referencing Nevada state law regarding development agreements.

Wray also contested the city's ability to approve a billboard that would be on land owned by the Mountain View Cemetery and another 'area identification' sign on land owned by Kokee & Neelam LLC at the corner of 4th St. and Keystone Ave.

A city spokesperson wrote in a short statement that the city attorney's office couldn't comment on pending litigation, but that 'we plan to vigorously defend the City's position.' A city representative wasn't made available for an interview.

Aside from the legal claims, Wray said billboards and signs aren't what make an area special for locals and tourists.

For example, like Midtown — it's not because of any signs. It's not because someone built a big building or an archway. It's just nice small businesses and a walkable community that people want to visit.

The case was assigned to Judge Connie Steinheimer and has not yet been scheduled for a hearing.

READ the lawsuit here:

Email reporter Ben Margiott at bjmargiott@sbgtv.com. Follow @BenMargiott on Twitter and Ben Margiott KRNV on Facebook.