Despite Fierce Opposition from Residents, County Commission Gets Massive Sierra Reflections Development Back on Track

Despite massive and lengthy public comment seeking the opposite outcome, Washoe County commissioners still voted 3-2 to reverse an earlier Planning Commission denial, moving the massive Sierra Reflections development project back on track for new houses to be built within a few years near Pleasant Valley.

Commissioners Clara Andriola, Mariluz Garcia and Alexis Hill were the three yes votes, while commissioners Jeanne Herman and Mike Clark voted no. Clark spoke out against what he called a “million-dollar sellout,” after Garcia spoke in favor of a $1 million up front payment from the developer to help construct a new fire station in Washoe Valley.

Public commenters complained about future traffic, flooding risks, threats to endangered species and soil contamination among numerous complaints for a project that is within the Carson River mercury superfund site.

“This decision allows the developer to continue its project, which comprises a 940-lot subdivision with open space and trails over a 760-acre area. The Planning Commission denied the project at its January 6, 2026, meeting, and the property owner, Appellant World Properties, Inc., appealed the decision to the Board of County Commissioners,” the county wrote in its meeting highlights.

“The project dates back to 1984 as the St. James Resort, which was a plan for a 250-room luxury hotel, small casino, fitness center, 550 condominium units and an 18-hole golf course. This special use permit was amended in 1991 to expand the hotel to 350 rooms and reduce the total condominium units to 400. The project has morphed over the last two decades as zoning and area plans have changed.  
Washoe County Planner Chris Bronczyk presented an overview of development’s history and the county’s determination that the applicant met all required findings. However, the Planning Commission did not determine that the findings were met and denied the permit. 

Approximately 65 people signed up to speak during the hearing’s public comment period, all in opposition to the housing development.“

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