State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Table of Contents

General Overview.........................................................................................................................2

Population by Race: Washoe County .......................................................................................2

What is affordable in Truckee Meadows?.................................................................................3

Uses of Funds ..............................................................................................................................5

A. Public Health .........................................................................................................................5

B. Negative Economic Impacts .................................................................................................6

C. Services to Disproportionately Impacted Communities .......................................................8

D. Premium Pay.......................................................................................................................12

E. Water, Sewer, and Broadband Infrastructure.....................................................................12

F. Broadband Undeserved Communities................................................................................13

G. Revenue Replacement .......................................................................................................23

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERPA)....................................................................23

Promoting Equitable Outcomes...............................................................................................24

Community Engagement ..........................................................................................................26

Outreach Approach and Planning Activity ..............................................................................28

Labor Practices ........................................................................................................................29

Use of Evidence.......................................................................................................................30

Table of Expenses by Expenditure Category..........................................................................31

Project Inventory........................................................................................................................32

Project #1: Nevada Cares Campus CIP..................................................................................32

Project #2: Washoe County Safe Camp CIP..........................................................................33

Project #3: Our Home – Women’s Pilot Project......................................................................34
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

General Overview

Washoe County is located in northwestern Nevada. The southern boundary is Carson City and Lake Tahoe. The 

county runs north along the California border to the Oregon border. The county includes two incorporated cities, 

Reno, and Sparks. Both cities are in south Washoe County within the Truckee Meadows Basin -- a large valley 

within the Range and Basin area of the Western United States. The Sierra Nevada Mountain range is located on 

the west side of the valley, and the smaller Virginia Range is located on the east. The Truckee River flows out of 

Lake Tahoe on the west and runs through the center of the valley before eventually entering Pyramid Lake to the 

northeast of Reno and Sparks, which is a terminal body of water (does not drain into the Pacific Ocean). 

The population of Washoe County is 486,492. The racial makeup of the county is 64% white, 7% Asian, 3% black 

or African American, 3% American Indian, 1% Pacific islander, 19% from other races, and 1% from two or more 

races. 

Population by Race: Washoe County

Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 25% of the population

 

White, 64%

Black/African 

American, 3%

American Indian

3%

Asian, 8%

Native 

Hawaiian/Pacific 

Islander, 1%

Other Race

19%

Two or More 

Races

2%

Hispanic/Latino, 

25%

Non 

Hispanic/Latino, 

75%
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

What is affordable in Truckee Meadows?

Washoe County Owner-Occupied Housing Units Average Value: $506,020

State of Nevada: $403,127

The Regional Strategy for Housing Affordability – published in November 2018 identified the average home price 

in the Truckee Meadows as $360,330. Today the average value of an Owner-Occupied Housing Unit is $506,020. 

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the County’s economy had rebounded from the recession that began in fiscal 

year 2008, due to economic growth and diversification. In February 2020, Nevada’s economy was at a peak, with 

unemployment at 3.8% and Nevada led the nation in new job creation. 

On March 12, 2020, a state of emergency was declared by Governor Steve Sisolak. One month later, the 

mandatory shutdowns resulted in launching Nevada’s unemployment to more than 28%, which was the highest 

ever recorded rate in the United States since the country began tracking the data in the seventies. Due to prior 

diversification efforts, Washoe County’s unemployment rate in April 2020 was slightly less at 19.6%, or 44,285 

people unemployed. 

The economic impact to one of the state’s largest industries, tourism/hospitality was immediate. For example, 

cancellations of major special events removed approximately $350 million from the Washoe County economy. 

This is demonstrated by the loss of Hot August Nights with an impact of $290 million, followed by Burning Man

with an impact of $60 million and the Barracuda Professional Golf Association tournament at $20 million.

With vaccinations becoming accessible to the general population throughout spring and summer of 2021, the 

state restrictions were lifted, and businesses began re-opening, though the approach varied county-by-county. 

The impact of re-opening can be seen in the decline of Washoe County’s unemployment rate which was 4.9% in 

July 2021, or 12,983 people unemployed. 

As of August 2021, approximately 67% of Washoe County residents aged 12 and older have received at least one 

dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and approximately 60% are fully vaccinated. Yet, the 14-day positivity rate for 

COVID-19 is 19.8%. COVID-19 positivity rates at 12 of Nevada’s 17 counties are flagged for elevated disease 

transmission, including Washoe County. 

A major driver of these elevated positivity rates is the return of in-person learning at Washoe County School 

District (WCSD), which is also the county’s largest employer with over 8,500 employees. WCSD is providing inclass instruction to over 67,113 students in over 113 schools. COVID-19 test positivity rate at WCSD is currently 

at 19.4% and is reporting 938 new or active cases as of August 28, 2021. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Since the beginning of the pandemic, at least 1 in 9 residents have been infected or a total of 53,042 reported 

cases out of a population of 486,492 as of the 2020 Census. Of those cases reported, 46,997 have recovered and 

725 residents have died. Over 501,653 vaccines have been administered resulting in a 60.29% vaccination rate of 

those over 12. With the emergence of the delta variant, 681 breakthrough cases have been reported or .28% 

positivity after full vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone 12 years and older.

The pandemic response is being managed in a regional collaboration of Washoe County, City of Reno and City of 

Sparks through the Regional Information Center (RIC). The RIC with a group of advisors made up of doctors, 

medical professionals, data scientists, communications specialists and elected officials from across the Truckee 

Meadows region developed the COVID Risk Meter in summer 2020. The Risk Meter was created to help 

synthesize data and information about COVID in the community and empower residents to make personal 

behavioral decisions with easy to use information. The Risk Meter uses data about COVID testing, new COVID 

cases, hospitalizations, and hospital capacity to assess the current state of COVID Risk in the region. As each of 

these data indicators increase, the risk score increases in an additive way. 

The ability of our health care system to treat COVID-19 cases throughout this crisis was substantially improved by 

the rapid expansion of Renown Medical Center, transitioning two floors of a parking garage into 1,400 beds as a 

precautionary move to handle a surge in hospitalizations. Washoe County, the City of Reno and the City of 

Sparks through regional collaboration provided CARES funding to support the cost of the Alternative Care Facility 

(ACF). The ACF boosted Renown Medical Center’s in-patient capacity from 808 beds to 1,508 beds, a 173 

percent increase. Currently about 68% of ICU beds in Washoe County are in use. 

While unemployment rates in the Washoe County area have improved, the unpredictability of variant strains of 

COVID-19, the reduced efficacy of vaccinations over time, and the disproportional impact to the County’s 

underserved communities will continue to challenge recovery efforts. The use of these funds will mitigate these 

uncertainties for our most vulnerable populations and create more economic resiliency by focusing on key areas 

for addressing our needs in Washoe County.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Uses of Funds

A. Public Health (EC 1)

To maximize programmatic impact and ensure effective, efficient, and equitable public health outcomes, Washoe 

County will conduct a process to identify the most urgent, wide-ranging, and impactful public health needs related 

to the COVID-19 public health emergency. 

The first step in the assessment was an analysis of existing regional needs, as identified from the strategic plans 

of nine governmental, economic and educational organizations. Goals and objectives from those plans that could 

potentially be applied to Recovery Fund Expenditure Categories were identified as Consolidated Regional 

Priorities. 

The following chart demonstrates common focus areas under the topic of Public Health, which could also be 

mapped back to eligible Expenditure Fund categories. Key crossover subjects included COVID-19 recovery, 

access to health services, mental wellbeing and preventative services. 

Public Health - Examples of Common Strategic Goals

Washoe County Continue to reopen and manage COVID-19 economic impacts to ensure our citizens have confidence in 

the overall recovery of our community.

University of Nevada Provide preventative outreach programs that encourage good health and nutrition.

Washoe Co. Health 

District

Reduce the negative health and economic impacts of obesity and chronic disease. 

Support and promote behavioral health. 

Washoe County 

Regional Recovery 

Action Plan

Promote the physical and mental well-being of all Washoe County residents and staff.

Evaluate the organizational response to the COVID-19 pandemic to plan for similar events in the future. 

Washoe County 

Community Health 

Improvement Plan

Reduce depression and suicidal behaviors in adolescents and seniors (age 65+).

Strengthen behavioral health component of emergency preparedness and response.

As a result of our initial assessment efforts and collection of feedback from Washoe County internal stakeholders, 

the following key areas of funding need have been identified:

Address health disparities known to directly influence social inequities in health through programs that 

target populations with higher incidents of disease.

Address the root causes of homelessness, to include collaborative solutions for mental health, substance 

abuse and identifying pathways to independent living.

The needs and priorities identified above, along with information to be gathered from our community engagement 

process will be used to develop Washoe County’s strategy for funding public health projects and programs and 

provide equitable outcomes throughout our region. 

As we move forward, we will determine the most appropriate funding sources, and collaborations to ensure 

regional public health needs are addressed to provide a strong recovery in the most effective, efficient, and 

equitable manner. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

B. Negative Economic Impacts (EC 2)

From the Consolidated Regional Priorities exercise, the following charts demonstrate common focus areas under 

topic related to the Economy and Workforce development, which could also be mapped back to eligible 

Expenditure Fund categories. Key crossover subjects included economic revitalization, resiliency and business 

community engagement. 

Economic Development & Tourism - Examples of Common Strategic Goals

Economic 

Development Authority 

of W.Nevada

Attact quality, skilled, higher paying jobs.

Prepare and help companies with change.

City of Reno Implement the Downtown Action Plan in collaboration with the Downtown Reno Partnership.

City of Sparks Foster an environment for the development and redevelopment of commercial and industrial areas.

University of Nevada Promote revitalization of downtown Reno through joint planning and collaboration with the City, the Regional 

Transportation Commission, and other partners.

RSCVA

Recover total room night generation to 70% of prepandemic levels.

Develop new strategy for special event funding, focus on supporting new events.

Truckee Meadows 

Tomorrow

Create and support fun, high-value, community events to engage the entire community and to increase 

unrestricted revenue.

Washoe Co. Regional 

Recovery Action Plan

Support the financial recovery of employers and residents.

Foster business continuity within Washoe County and build back better. 

Western Nevada 

Development District

Promote broadband and 5G technology investment to maximize business recruitment and job creation.

Advocate for job creation that results in sustainable, quality jobs in a more resilient, more diverse economy.

Workforce Development & Education - Examples of Common Strategic Goals

Economic 

Development Authority 

of W. Nevada

Strengthen education and employer relationships.

Accelerate and expand Workforce Development efforts to meet growing employer needs.

Truckee Meadows 

Community College

Provide transition assistance for TMCC Adult Basic Education and Workforce Development and Continuing 

Education students that are interested in continuing their education at our institution.

Career Services to provide networking and career-building opportunities with employers.

University of Nevada

Invest in disciplinary and interdisciplinary research areas that build upon existing strength and that are

responsive to emerging needs and opportunities.

Work with school districts to improve college readiness of high-school graduates.

Western Nevada 

Development District

Raise educational and skill levels in the region to close the skill gap and improve quality of life.

Advance training programs to help trade affected, unemployed, underemployed, low-wage, or unskilled workers 

maximize self-sufficiency.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

As a result of our initial assessment efforts and collection of feedback from Washoe County internal stakeholders, 

the following key areas of funding need have been identified for addressing the negative economic impacts of the 

COVID-19 on our communities:

Bolster economic recovery for small businesses to mitigate financial hardships, implement structural 

changes, or address other COVID-related issues.

The needs and priorities identified above, along with information to be gathered from our community engagement 

process will be used to develop Washoe County’s strategy for funding eligible projects and programs to address 

the Negative Economic Impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency and provide equitable outcomes 

throughout our region. 

As we move forward, we will determine the most appropriate funding sources, and collaborations to ensure the 

Negative Economic Impacts on households, small business, and nonprofits are addressed in the most efficient, 

effective, and equitable manner. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

C. Services to Disproportionately Impacted Communities (EC 3)

It is anticipated that the majority of Washoe County’s SLFRF will be invested in projects and programs that 

address the services to Disproportionately Impacted Communities. Throughout the COVID-19 public health 

emergency Washoe County and the Cites of Reno and Sparks have been working together to address the 

increasing and complex issues of homelessness in our region. 

Over the past several years, Washoe County has faced serious housing affordability challenges and seen a 

significant increase in residents experiencing homelessness. These challenges were only exacerbated by the 

coronavirus pandemic. 

Therefore Washoe County has decided to invest a significant amount of its SLFRF to improve homeless services 

and increase access to affordable housing for low-income residents. Projects identified to date include land and 

structural improvements to the region’s emergency homeless shelters. Additional projects, not yet obligated but 

under review, would provide increased staff and case management resources, and investments in the Washoe 

County Affordable Housing Trust Fund, to strengthen low-income affordable housing development efforts.

From the Consolidated Regional Priorities exercise, the following charts demonstrate common focus areas under 

topics of related to Services to Disproportionately Impacted Communities, which could also be mapped back 

to eligible Expenditure Fund categories. Key crossover subjects included affordable housing, homeless services, 

food security, welcoming open space areas and ways to improve outreach to diverse populations.

Vulnerable Populations - Examples of Common Strategic Goals

Washoe County

Expand the capacity for homeless services housing programs in Washoe County. 

Focus on expanding efforts to keep people in their homes, after COVID eviction moratorium ends.

City of Reno Explore ways to partner with the private sector to fund and provide services to the homeless population.

Washoe Co. Health 

District Improve nutrition by supporting efforts to increase food security.

TM Enterprise Plan Preserve the affordability and improve the quality of existing affordable homeownership and rental options.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Arts, Culture & Recreation - Examples of Common Strategic Goals

Economic 

Development 

Authority of W.Nevada

Support community initiatives addressing homelessness, arts and culture, sustainability, trails and open space, 

and others.

City of Reno Identify dedicated and creative funding sources for parks and recreation to address aging facilities, maintain parks 

and trails, and expand recreational opportunities.

City of Sparks Protect our quality of life by smart development of major Parks and Recreation facilities.

University of Nevada Revise rules, policies, and procedures to more effectively promote research, artistry, and entrepreneurial 

activities.

Washoe County 

Library Washoe County Library Provides Opportunities to Express Creativity.

Washoe County Parks Preserve and enhance existing regional parks.

W.NV Development 

District Promote transportation that moves people to places of employment and recreation.

Community Engagement & Outreach - Examples of Common Strategic Goals

Washoe County Continue to engage citizens across the community through diverse channels.

Truckee Meadows 

Regional Planning 

Agency

Explore new models for communication and cooperation with public agencies and private and non-profit 

partners.

City of Sparks Expand citizen education, communication and interaction opportunities.

University of Nevada Encourage community focused university-county-city-state partnerships across all engagement entities and 

cross-entity collaboration to enhance the value of university resources for Nevadans.

Washoe Co. Health 

District Raise awareness of the benefits of a healthy community to build a local culture of health. 

Washoe County 

Library Washoe County Library System is a trusted source for local information.

As a result of our initial assessment efforts and collection of feedback from Washoe County internal stakeholders, 

the following key areas of funding need have been identified:

Address the root causes of homelessness, to include collaborative solutions for mental health, substance 

abuse and identifying pathways to independent living. 

Address health disparities known to directly influence social inequities in health through programs that 

target populations with higher incidents of disease. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Childhood environments with key partners in the community who deliver early learning and family support

services. 

Build stronger neighborhoods with initiatives that preserve and expand upon affordable housing options for 

low- to mid-income level earners in our community. 

Project applicants may also provide these services to other populations, households, or geographic areas 

disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. In identifying these disproportionately impacted communities, 

recipients should be able to support their determination for how the pandemic disproportionately impacted the 

populations, households, or geographic areas to be served. 

Eligible services include:

Addressing health disparities and the social determinants of health, including: community health 

workers, public benefits navigators, remediation of lead paint or other lead hazards, and community violence 

intervention programs; 

Building stronger neighborhoods and communities, including: supportive housing and other services for 

individuals experiencing homelessness, development of affordable housing, and housing vouchers and 

assistance relocating to neighborhoods with higher levels of economic opportunity; 

Addressing educational disparities exacerbated by COVID-19, including: early learning services, 

increasing resources for high-poverty school districts, educational services like tutoring or after-school 

programs, and supports for students’ social, emotional, and mental health needs; and 

Promoting healthy childhood environments, including: child care, home visiting programs for families with 

young children, and enhanced services for child welfare-involved families and foster youth. 

The needs and priorities identified above, along with information gathered from our community engagement 

process will be used to develop Washoe County’s strategy for funding eligible services to disproportionately 

impacted communities and provide equitable outcomes throughout our region. 

As we move forward, we will determine the most appropriate funding sources, and collaborations to ensure 

regional needs of underserved communities are met and that underserved populations share in an equitable, and 

strong recovery. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Qualified Census Tracts

In accordance with the Interim Final Rule, Washoe County will presume certain types of services are eligible uses 

when provided in a Qualified Census Tract (QCT), or to families living in QCTs.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

D. Premium Pay (EC 4)

There is no expected use of SLFRF to provide premium pay to public sector employees, or grants to other 

employers. Washoe County will gather input from our community engagement process to develop the County’s 

strategy for funding eligible projects and programs. As we move forward, we will determine the most appropriate 

funding sources, and collaborations to ensure a strong, efficient, effective, and equitable recovery.

E. Water, Sewer, and Broadband Infrastructure (EC 5) 

Water and Sewer:

Washoe County is in the process gathering input on projects and priorities for our SLFRF funded projects. It is 

anticipated that Washoe County will dedicate funding to necessary investments to improve the county’s 

wastewater and storm water infrastructure. Projects being considered focus on addressing issues related to 

persistent flooding, cybersecurity maintaining full control and use of Washoe County’s wastewater and reclaimed 

water facilities, and expansion of regional wastewater treatment and regional effluent reuse. 

Before projects are chosen or prioritized for funding, the county will engage in discussions with regional and state 

partners and gather input from community members and key stakeholders. As we move forward, we will 

determine the most appropriate funding sources, and collaborations. 

Broadband Infrastructure:

Washoe County has identified the need for broadband infrastructure in multiple areas of the county, specifically in 

underserved communities. At this time no specific broadband infrastructure projects have been identified or 

prioritized for SLFRF funding. Before projects are chosen or prioritized for funding, the county will engage in 

discussions with regional and state partners and gather input from community members and key stakeholders. 

As we move forward, we will determine the most appropriate funding sources, and collaborations, to ensure the 

installation of necessary broadband infrastructure in the most efficient, effective, and equitable manner. 

Over the past eighteen months millions of Americans began working from home, distance learning, and receiving 

medical and mental health services via the internet. Our reliance on internet connectivity during the COVID-19 

public health emergency has underscored the importance of broadband in underserved communities. The 

following is an analysis of the primary underserved communities in Washoe County by Census Tract. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

F. Broadband Undeserved Communities (EC 6) 

The Census Tract information is provided to describe the underserved communities of Washoe County. Our 

strategic approach is that by use of the NDOT fiber we will strength our backbone or backhaul to county services 

and be able to provide internet to citizens who do not have the means to access the internet. 

Washoe County has a long-term goal to change NRS 408, Telecom non-compete clauses to eventually allow for 

Washoe County in partnership with internet service providers to provide low-cost internet services to communities 

that need internet access. Each census tract listed below will provide the current population of the tract, 

percentage of household with no access to the internet, percentage of households without computer, smartphone, 

or tablet to reach these services, and the average internet speeds of the area. The minimum download speed of 

25 megabits per second and 3 megabits per second upload speeds, are too slow or latent to support real 

time interactive applications. 

Northern Washoe County

Underserved Population without internet access: 1,407

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 858

Average Data Rate: FAILS to meet minimum real-time support needs. 

This census block is in a rural area of northern Washoe County that include vast ranch land. Communities are 

spread far apart and have no central locations available to serve for a greater good. The communities of Empire 

and Gerlach fall within this larger area of northern Washoe County that remains in the underserved internet 

category in Census Tract 32031003501. This census tract shows that 12.30% of household are without access to 

the internet, and 7.50% are without access to a computer, smartphone, or tablet. While those number are 

relatively low, the average speed of internet for this community is 13.39 Mbps download speeds and 6.19 Mbps 

upload speeds. The minimum download speed of 25 megabits per 

second and 3 megabits per second are too slow or latent to support 

real time interactive applications. 

Washoe County seeks to install fiber up SR447 from Nixon to 

connect Gerlach to fiber. We intend to rope in all the countyowned buildings, along with public safety (Police, Fire and 

Emergency Medical), with the local School District building (serving 

K-12 students).

Gerlach will need to be connected via SR 447 from Nixon. Due to the 

distance that must be traversed, some 50+ miles, Washoe County 

Regional Communication System (WCRCS) needs to connect to our 

communication sites via fiber. Three locations have the potential to 

serve the community:

Sheriff’s Department

Fire Station

School District
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Downtown Reno Census Tract 32031000102

Underserved Population without internet access: 1,329

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 1,282

Average Data Rate: FAILS to meet minimum real-time support needs. 

This census tract may offer the best means of working on a public private partnership. The census tract 

32031000102 has an estimated population of 4,315 individuals, 30.80% of which have no access to the internet. 

29.70% of this census tract are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has a median 

internet download speed of 33.24 Mbps and upload of 10.13 Mbps. These internet speeds do not meet the real 

time application speeds, one-third of the population within this tract are without access to the internet, with 

29.70% without a device to use to connect. Three locations have the potential to serve the community: 

Discovery Museum

Downtown (Possible Partnerships)

Court Complex
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Census Tract 32031000900 & 32031002211

Underserved Population without internet access: 1,391

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 732

Average Data Rate: Real-time support speeds available. 

Census tract 32031000900 & 32031002211 has an estimated population of 4,880 and 

3863 individuals, respectively. Census tract 3203100900 has 26.50% of which have no access to the internet, 

and 15.00% of this census tract are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has a 

median internet download speed of 94.08 Mbps and upload of 11.14 Mbps.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Communities with Echo Loder Elementary & Yori Park 

Underserved Population without internet access: 900

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 792

Average Data Rate: FAILS to meet minimum real-time support needs. 

Census tract 32031002211 has 23.30% of which have no access to the internet, and 20.50% of this census tract 

are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has a median internet download speed 

of 20.92 Mbps and upload of 10.82 Mbps. These internet speeds do not meet the real time application speeds, 

one-fifth of the population within this tract is without access to the internet. Three locations have the potential to 

serve both communities:

Echo Loder Elementary School

Yori Park

Phoenix Reno apartments
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe Census Tract 32031940200

Underserved Population without internet access: 1,067

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 612

Average Data Rate: Meets minimum real-time support speeds. 

Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe falls within a larger area of Washoe County that remains in the underserved internet 

category in Census Tract 32031940200. Although the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe is self-governed, they are still an 

integral part of our community. The PLPT endowed the Marble Bluff Communication site to Washoe County in 

1999, and this site is in the middle of our infrastructure that support public safety. The PLPT are members of the 

Joint Operating Committee that support the Public Safety Radio system of Washoe County Regional 

Communication System (WCRCS). WCRCS is a member of the Nevada Shared Radio System (NSRS). This 

census tract shows that 32.40% of household are without access to the internet, and 18.60% are without 

Computer, smartphone, or tablet. The average speed of internet for this community is 52.95 Mbps download 

speeds and 10.97 Mbps upload speeds. Although their internet speeds exceed the minimum download speed of 

25 megabits per second and 3 megabits per second, the staggering number of underserved within this community 

needs to be addressed. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Deer Park Census Tract 32031001901

Underserved Population without internet access: 1,468

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 672

Average Data Rate: Real-time support speeds available.

Census Tract 32031001901 has an estimated population of 4,766 individuals, 30.80% of which have no access to 

the internet. 14.10% of this census tract are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has 

a median internet download speed of 114.35 Mbps and upload of 12.54 Mbps. While the internet speeds exceed 

the real time application speeds, one-third of the population within this tract is without access to the 

internet. Four locations have the potential to serve the community:

Kate Smith Elementary School 

Deer Park

Stonegate Apartments 

Sparks Mobile Home and RV Park
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Governor’s Bowl Park Census Tract 32031001801

Underserved Population without internet access: 1,297

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 852

Average Data Rate: Real-time support speeds available.

Census Tract 32031001801 has an estimated population of 3,929 individuals, 33% of which have no access to 

the internet. 21.70% of this census tract are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has 

a median internet download speed of 113.68 Mbps and upload of 11.40Mbps. While the internet speeds exceed 

the real time application speeds, one-third of the population within this tract is without access to the 

internet. Three locations have the potential to serve the community: 

Fred Traner Middle School 

Duncan/Traner Community Library

Governor’s Bowl Park (new site of the Cares Homeless Services Campus)
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Virginia Lake Census Tract 32031001009

Underserved Population without internet access: 763

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 462

Average Data Rate: Meet minimum real-time support speeds. 

Census Tract 32031001009 has an estimated population of 2,668 individuals, 28.60% of which have no access to 

the internet. 17.30% of this census tract are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has 

a median internet download speed of 58.04 Mbps and upload of 11.42 Mbps. These internet speeds barely meet 

the real time application speeds, and one-third of the population within this tract is without access to the internet, 

with 17.30% without a device to use to connect. One place and two locations have the potential to serve the 

community:

Virginia Lake North and South

Virginia Lake, and both parks (Playground Park, and East shore Drive)
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Reno Housing Authority Census Tract 32031001802

Underserved Population without internet access: 885

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 782

Average Data Rate: Real-time support speeds available.

Census Tract 32031001802 has an estimated population of 3,232 individuals, 27.4% of which have no access to 

the internet. 24.20% of this census tract are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has 

a median internet download speed of 110.39 Mbps and upload of 11.21 Mbps. While the internet speeds exceed 

the real time application speeds, one third of the population within this tract is without access to the 

internet. Three locations have the potential to serve the community:

Bernice Matthews Elementary 

Reno housing Authority 

Mountain Vista Mobile Home Park
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Wooster High School Census Tract 32031002107

Underserved Population without internet access: 491

Population without computer, tablet, or phone: 300

Average Data Rate: Meet minimum real-time support speeds.

Census Tract 32031002107 has an estimated population of 1,861 individuals, 26.40% of which have no access to 

the internet. 16.10% of this census tract are without access to computers, smartphones, or tablets. This area has 

a median internet download speed of 45.74 Mbps and upload of 10.80 Mbps. These internet speeds do not 

meet the real time application speeds, and one-quarter of the population within this tract is without access to the 

internet, with 16% without a device to use to connect. Four locations have the potential to serve the community:

Earl Wooster High School 

Corbett Elementary School 

US Social Security Administration

Reno-Sparks Indian Colony
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

G. Revenue Replacement 

Washoe County has identified up to $11.2M of Revenue Loss for the period January 1, 2020 through December 

31, 2020 per the US Treasury guidance and formula (i.e., Rules and Regulations, FAQs, etc.) and the GFOA 

Revenue Loss Calculator. Revenue Loss funds will only be used for eligible purposes.

To date, no Revenue Loss funds have been expended. However, Washoe County has identified multiple potential 

uses including, but not limited to:

Replacement and Modernization of Legacy Finance and Administration Systems

Technology Capital and Infrastructure Investment

Capital Facility Improvements

o Washoe County canceled or deferred $8.4M of capital improvement projects between March 

2020 and June 2021 due to anticipated COVID-19 impacts. These projects span various 

functions, including Public Safety, Welfare, General Government, and Public Works.

Roads Projects

Provision of Public Safety Services

Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERPA)

Washoe County received Emergency Rental Assistance funds, in the amount of $6,564,663.20. The County 

subgranted over 97% of the funds to the Reno Housing Authority to provide financial assistance for rent, rent 

arrears, utilities and home energy costs, and home energy costs arrears, and other expenses related to housing 

incurred due, directly or indirectly, to the novel coronavirus disease. These funds are used to assist residents in 

the City of Sparks and unincorporated Washoe County.

Prioritization of Assistance:

1. The income of the household does not exceed 50 percent of the area median income for the household.

2. One (1) or more individuals within the household are unemployed as of the date of the application for 

assistance and have not been employed for the 90-day period preceding such date. 

As of August 23, 2021, over $2.7 million in financial assistance has been provided to 317 households.

Washoe County received $5,194,310 in Emergency Rental Assistance. These funds will be used to provide 

support to the community through emergency rental assistance and housing stability programs. 

For ERA2, Washoe County will be implementing its own housing assistance program. The ERA2 program is 

designed to be a targeted intervention for those facing imminent eviction and/or currently experiencing 

homelessness and housing instability. Washoe County is actively developing a centralized application process 

and in turn will partner selected social and legal service providers to direct resources to county residents who are 

most in need.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Promoting Equitable Outcomes

Low-income communities and workers and people of color have faced more severe health and economic 

outcomes during the pandemic, with pre-existing social vulnerabilities like low-wage or insecure employment, 

concentrated neighborhoods with less economic opportunity, and pre-existing health disparities likely contributing 

to the magnified impact of the pandemic.

For example, there have been 17,730 COVID-19 cases for Washoe County’s Latino populations as of August 

2021. This represents 14.2% of the Latino population in the county, in comparison to 16% of COVID-19 cases for 

the general population. Of the industries most impacted by COVID, unemployment rates due to state-mandated 

shutdowns were the highest in the hospitality and food services sector, which is disproportionately served by 

Latino workers. Extended families living in multi-generational households is also reported to be higher in Latino 

populations, with 27% in multigenerational housing compared to the national average of 20%. These are 

representative of the health, economic and social indicators that will be taken into consideration as Washoe 

County assesses its equity outcomes. 

To ensure that SLFRF funded projects deliver equitable outcomes and address the needs of disproportionally 

impacted communities, Washoe County will embed equity-related objectives throughout community outreach, 

program selection, implementation, and monitoring, and the program reporting processes. 

Community Outreach: To track success toward achieving equity outcomes, gathering a baseline understanding 

of needs by the County’s underserved communities is being incorporated into community outreach. This will be 

done by surveying the community, leveraging community partnerships with organizations who work with 

underserved populations, and optimizing communication strategies with program-owners to best reach these 

communities. 

Program/Project Selection: With needs understood and defined, an analysis of the most relevant economic, 

social, or civic community indicators will be identified to monitor and track program progress. Reporting upon 

these key metrics will determine which programs will qualify for SLFRF funding. As part of the application 

process, potential recipients will be required to identify how their program/project will promote equitable 

outcomes. Specifically, applicants will be evaluated regarding of their response to the following questions:

Describe how your program will promote equitable outcomes. How was it designed with equity in mind? Please 

include in your description how you will consider and measure equity at the various stages of the program, 

including: 

A. Goals: Are there particular historically underserved, marginalized, or adversely affected groups that you 

intend to serve within your jurisdiction? 

B. Awareness: How equal and practical is the ability for residents or businesses to become aware of the 

services funded by the SLFRF? 

C. Access and Distribution: Are there differences in levels of access to benefits and services across groups? 

Are there administrative requirements that result in disparities in ability to complete applications or meet 

eligibility criteria?

D. Outcomes: Are intended outcomes focused on closing gaps, reaching universal levels of service, or 

disaggregating progress by race, ethnicity, and other equity dimensions where relevant for the policy 

objective? 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Equitable Outcomes Technical Assistance: As a component of program oversight and monitoring, technical 

assistance with be provided to all program/project owners to encourage, facilitate, and ensure equitable outcomes 

for underserved communities.

Reporting Requirements: Programs receiving SLFRF funds will be required to report key metrics according to 

the populations, households, or geographic areas served. The County can then aggregate programmatic-level 

data into broader health, economic, or social indicators by identified demographics. These aggregations will serve 

to track broader equity outcomes for populations that are being disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. This 

focus in reporting will also inform needed program shifts as COVID impacts may evolve. 

Both static and interactive reporting will be made available to all stakeholders, program owners and the 

community-at-large throughout the SLFRF public dashboard and community engagement process. Static 

reporting delivered to the U.S. Treasury will be posted on www.washoecounty.us/recovery and the interactive 

reporting dashboard will be made available after program selection begins and key data points have been 

identified.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Community Engagement 

Washoe County’s approach to community outreach is multi-pronged: 1) Collection of input, and gather data to 

understand and prioritize needs in the community; 2) Engage with targeted stakeholder groups that serve 

disproportionately impacted communities and identify key areas to expand/prioritize services; and 3) Launch 

outreach and awareness campaigns for funded projects; and 4) Maintain accountability and transparency through 

continued reporting upon key program metrics to reflect services delivered and fulfillment of equity outcomes.

Collection of data to understand and prioritize needs

Through community surveys, events and meetings, the County will gather perspectives on critical needs of the 

community to bolster efforts for pandemic recovery. This phase will include the isolation of data to provide clear 

insight into the feedback of communities with significant barriers to services, to help establish pathways to best 

serve those populations. 

Defining these segment populations will be done by offering the survey through multiple language options and will 

ask important socio-economic indicators such as location (e.g. Census Tract Areas, multi-lingual), average 

income levels, pre-pandemic employment status and pandemic employment status. 

To help collect feedback from populations with limited access to technology, the County has identified 

neighborhoods with a high percentage of households with no access to the internet, and/or high percentage of 

households without computes, smartphones, or tablets (see Broadband Infrastructure section below). In these 

neighborhoods, survey awareness and outreach can occur at County buildings, libraries, schools, or other 

congregate locations. When in-person opportunities for community information dissemination exists, outreach will 

also be deployed in a safe manner that follows COVID-gathering protocols. 

Engage with targeted stakeholder groups that serve disproportionately impacted communities

To build the capacity of community organizations to serve impacted populations, the County will engage with key 

stakeholder groups in the region who are already tied into and serve populations that have barriers to service. 

This engagement effort will be ongoing throughout the allocation timeframe and beyond, as these key groups will 

be important communication channels for providing information to disproportionately impacted communities about 

funded programs. 

The methods used for this outreach will include listening sessions, focus groups and regional roundtables to 

ensure funding is coordinated and collaborative with efforts from the cities, states and tribal organizations that are 

also focusing on addressing similar community needs. 

Findings from these sessions will guide the prioritization of program/project selection by providing clarity on how 

to leverage funds to increase their capacity to serve impacted populations, as well as what services and 

interventions are most needed to address the impacts of COVID-19 public health emergency. 

Launch outreach and awareness campaigns for funded projects

Once program allocation begins, outreach must focus on raising awareness of services to impacted populations. 

The county’s communication plan will initiate outreach to local news outlets, leverage owned channels (i.e. 

webpages and physical locations), optimize social media and directly release information to local non-profit 

organizations and stakeholder groups. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Some programs may have extremely targeted communication tactics that are to-be-determined to effectively 

reach the identified populations. Additionally, to encourage equitable access to funded programs, the county will 

work closely with program owners to identify their most salient communication tactics and align efforts whenever 

opportunities exist.

Maintain accountability and transparency through continued reporting

The funding provided by the SLFRF represent a time-bound opportunity for the county to build trust and 

confidence in how these funds are leveraged, which will be accomplished through building tools for accountability 

and transparency. 

To ensure these outcomes are integrated into program development, direct outreach to program owners will 

include a clear understanding of reporting requirements, processes, and deadlines. Adherence from program 

owners will be important for public-facing reporting and updates, which will also provide key data points for 

inclusion in mandatory quarterly and annual U.S. Treasury filings. 

Public-facing reporting dashboards will be positioned to relay program-specific descriptions, funding received, and 

performance metrics. Whenever possible broader community indicators will be included in context to the 

community as well. Reporting dashboards will also include copies of all reports submitted to the U.S. Treasury. 

With each program added or report update, media outreach through press releases, webinars or presentations 

will also occur. County residents are encouraged to subscribe to an email list that will be used to notify interested 

residents of new postings, key accomplishments, project milestones and report submissions.

Washoe County will use the most direct way to reach communities that have been disproportionately impacted by 

the pandemic to promote equitable delivery of SLFRF funded programs. This will be done by recognizing social 

and technological barriers to information, leveraging community partnerships with organizations who already 

serve these communities and optimizing communication strategies with program owners to best reach 

underserved populations. Baseline metrics collected through population segment analysis from community 

surveys will be used to measure progress at to-be-determined phases of program delivery.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Outreach Approach and Planning Activity 

Objectives 

1. Gather input on priority needs, with broad-range outreach across county’s various districts and communities.

2. Vet effective programs and services with stakeholder groups representing disproportionately impacted 

communities. 

3. Increase constituent awareness regarding APRA-funded projects and programs through diverse and farreaching communication channels.

4. Ensure transparency and accountability through community reports and dashboard visualizations. 

Approach

Public Outreach: 

Gather input through multi-lingual surveys distributed broadly across all communication channels. 

Raise awareness of APRA-funded programs and projects. 

Establish continued progress reporting to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the funding 

period. 

Internal Stakeholder Assessment: 

Gather input regarding pressing community areas of need and program readiness from WC Leadership 

Team. 

External Stakeholder Engagement: 

Topic-specific, small listening sessions and focus groups with stakeholders from the state, cities and 

community service-based organizations.

Continued progress reports and focus group updates, regularly scheduled throughout the funding program. 

Regional Stakeholders Collaboration: 

Topic-specific discussions with regional partners to ensure collaboration where funding priorities may crossover.

Transparency and Accountability: 

Create channels where the public can clearly discover programs that are funded, why they are funded, ways 

to benefit from services.

Provide a public dashboard to visualize key program metrics and community indicators regarding progress 

and funds invested. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Activity

1 – Initialization and Prioritization August 2021 – September 2021

 Collect feedback from WC staff and leadership regarding potential funding areas.

 Establish community outreach survey and outreach channels.

 Select software services for the collection, aggregation, and reporting of outreach efforts.

 Establish how equity will be addressed in outreach and engagement activities.

 Create engaging messaging and copy for website and collateral needs.

 Identify key stakeholders to engage with and involve in Listening Sessions.

2 – Validate Direction through Outreach and Engagement September 2021 – December 2024

 Raise awareness about funding and gather input on needs at community meetings and events.

 Schedule and facilitate Listening Sessions with stakeholder groups identified in Phase 1. 

 Create content for distribution to promote survey release.

 Design questions for community survey to validate key areas of need and inform desired program outcomes.

3 – Transparency and Reporting August 2021 – December 2026

Ensure all Recovery Fund program owners have a clear understanding of program reporting requirements, 

processes, and deadlines. 

Maintain awareness regarding program progress, expenditures, and outcomes directly to local media, 

stakeholder groups and other key community, regional and state partners.

Establish a public-friendly, accessible way to learn about APRA-funding programs and projects that also 

includes a visualization of fund investments and progress. 

Broadly distribute Treasury reports to local media, key stakeholder groups and make available on publicfacing webpage.

Labor Practices 

Washoe County is in the process of developing our strategy for funding eligible SLFRF projects and programs. 

Our Board of County Commissioners have directed staff to consider, one-time projects and infrastructure, as one 

of our guiding principles in determining priority projects. It is anticipated that several projects will be capital 

projects involving the use of labor practices. During this planning phase, Washoe County will take advantage of 

the opportunity to investigate workforce practices used in other communities, but not yet utilized by Washoe 

County such as: Community Benefits Agreements.

A Community Benefits Agreement or "CBA" is a contract signed by community groups and a real estate developer 

that requires the developer to provide specific amenities and/or mitigations to the local community or 

neighborhood. Site-specific community benefits agreements (CBAs) ensure that particular projects create 

opportunities for local workers and communities. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Washoe County will use the Nevada State Prevailing Wage requirements for Public Works projects. NRS

338.020. Hourly and daily rate of wages must not be less than prevailing wage in region; rate must be included in 

contract and posted on-site; payment of overtime; wages paid in accordance with jurisdictional classes 

recognized in region. Every contract to which a public body of this State is a party, requiring the employment of 

skilled mechanics, skilled workers, semi-skilled mechanics, semi-skilled workers or unskilled labor in the 

performance of public work, must contain in express terms the hourly and daily rate of wages to be paid each of 

the classes of mechanics and workers.

Use of Evidence

As the county begins the process of identifying and prioritizing SLFRF funded projects, consideration will be given 

to projects using evidence-based interventions.Many expenditure categories are specifically identified as areas 

where Washoe County must identify the amount of funds that are allocated to evidence-based interventions. 

Evidence-based approaches help service providers use program models that have been proven to succeed. 

Therefore, when making funding determinations, Washoe County will weigh programs that are designed using 

evidence-based practices. 

Strong evidence means the approach has been proven (through a research-based model) to cause positive or 

intended outcomes; moderate evidence means the approach has positive outcomes as compared to a group that 

has not received the services; and preliminary evidence means that program beneficiaries have demonstrated a 

benefit or improvement and have their experience monitored at the end of the program. 

The preference for evidence-based practices will be clear for applicants who review program qualifications, and 

for those who are submitting applications. Since some programs may not yet have an evidence-based model in 

place, the county will provide ways to access evidence-based clearinghouses to help with program development 

that may need to incorporate evidence-based interventions into their program design.

If evidence-based approaches cannot be integrated into a program framework, a scientifically based evaluation 

design will need to be identified that will contribute to the monitoring and tracking of intended social, economic, or 

civic outcomes that are in alignment with advancing equity. 
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Table of Expenses by Expenditure Category 

Category Cumulative 

expenditures to 

date ($)

Amount spent 

since last 

Recovery Plan

1 Expenditure Category: Public Health 0 0

2 Expenditure Category: Negative Economic Impacts 0 0

3 Expenditure Category: Services to 

Disproportionately Impacted Communities

- -

3.12 Housing Support: Other Housing Assistance 16,920 16,920

4 Expenditure Category: Premium Pay 0 0

5 Expenditure Category: Infrastructure 0 0

6 Expenditure Category: Revenue Replacement 0 0

7 Administrative and Other 0 0
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Project Inventory

Project #1: Nevada Cares Campus CIP 

Funding Amount: $4,000,000 

Project Expenditure Category: 3.11 Housing Support: Services for Unhoused Persons 

Project Overview 

This project is focused on making physical land improvements as well as structural additions and changes to the 

Nevada Cares Campus. The Nevada Cares Campus is the region’s low-barrier emergency homeless shelter with 

a 600-bed capacity for single adult men, women, and couples. Volunteers of America operates the shelter and 

provides on-site supervision and case management to program participants. The goal of the program is provide 

housing-first case management that helps participants transition out of homelessness into stable housing as 

quickly as possible. 

Use of Evidence 

This low-barrier and person-centered shelter uses a housing-first model built around the Built for Zero framework. 

This includes implementing the following evidence-based interventions:

Coordinating Entry and Matchmaking

By Name Lists

Case Conferencing

Trauma Informed Care

Motivational Interviewing

The use of these interventions will result in measuring and tracking a successful total number of applications, 

exits to permanent housing, average lengths of stay, and other relevant metrics.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Project #2: Washoe County Safe Camp CIP 

Funding Amount: $4,500,000 

Project Expenditure Category: 3.11 Housing Supports: Services for Unhoused Persons

Project Overview 

This project is focused on making physical improvements to the land where the Washoe County Safe Camp is 

located. This project is a low-barrier trauma-informed shelter environment comprised of 45 tents. Karma Box 

Project operates the camp and case management is provided by an experienced contracted case manager. The 

goal of the program is providing housing-first case management that helps participants transition out of 

homelessness into stable housing as quickly as possible. 

Link: https://www.washoecounty.us/homelessness/Safe-Camp/index.php

Use of Evidence 

This low-barrier and person-centered shelter uses a housing-first model built around the Built for Zero framework. 

This includes implementing the following evidence-based interventions:

Coordinating Entry and Matchmaking

By Name Lists

Case Conferencing

Trauma Informed Care

Motivational Interviewing

The use of these interventions will result in measuring and tracking a successful total number of applications, 

exits to permanent housing, average lengths of stay, and other relevant metrics.
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State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – 2021 Report

Project #3: Our Home – Women’s Pilot Project

Funding Amount: $612,000

Project Expenditure Category: 3.11 Housing Supports: Services for Unhoused Persons

Project Overview

HSA is establishing a pilot program for supportive housing of persons with intellectual or developmental 

disabilities or mental health conditions that impede their ability to live with complete independence The pilot will 

include the provision of living space as well as access to a comprehensive case management and continuum of 

care for this high-need/high-intensity population. The pandemic has resulted in a shortage of affordable and/or 

suitable housing options for these high need individuals.

Program will provide supportive housing and comprehensive care based on the individual's need, including 

Withdrawal Management, Outpatient Substance Use Treatment, Medication Assisted Treatment, Outpatient 

Behavioral Treatment, Outpatient Psychiatric Services, Outpatient Medical Services, Medical Home for client, 

Chronic disease management, Targeted Case Management (SMI), Medical Case Management, Pharmacy, 

Physician/Psychiatrist/APRN Medical clearance and H&P, Medication management, Para-professional staff 

structure, tiered & need specific housing options (IDD/mental health need/sober living, etc.), Vocational Program 

and Eligibility specialists (SOAR and Medicaid).

Use of Evidence - in development as pilot program

Provide safe and stable housing - Comprehensive Case management 

Reduce the number of SMI/IDD individuals utilizing the homeless shelter

Provide medical and mental health services - Various EBP’s

Performance Report

# of women housed for 30/60/90, and over 90 days