Councilmember Ebert: Called In But Checked Out?

City of Reno Ward 4 residents are getting a big old goose egg from their Reno City Councilmember who has zero score in the game at the City of Reno.

While a NextDoor poster regularly highlights Mayor Hillary Schieve's absences from City Council meetings, a Picon reader points out another elected official flying under the radar: Councilmember Meghan Ebert of Ward 4.

According to our reader, Ebert's meeting participation leaves much to be desired—arriving late to meetings, logging in late to virtual sessions, and apparently skipping the prerequisite homework. Her questions during proceedings reportedly serve more to delay than illuminate, suggesting minimal preparation for the agenda items at hand.

This raises questions about Ebert's working relationship with city staff. Is she facing the same cold shoulder that former Councilmember Jenny Brekhus encountered? The difference, our reader notes, is that Brekhus came prepared despite the friction, while Ebert apparently does not.

With a site plan review, a conditional use permit, and two master plan amendments in Ward 4 requiring city oversight, Ebert's effectiveness becomes particularly concerning. Our reader suggests she has cultivated no meaningful relationships with either the mayor or her five council colleagues—essentially rendering her politically isolated despite holding an elected position.

Ward 4 residents might want to take note: with a representative who seemingly "calls in her participation" without wielding actual influence, your direct involvement in city meetings becomes even more crucial. The multiple public comment options available through the City of Reno may be your most effective path to have your neighborhood's concerns heard.

After all, an elected seat without preparation or political capital is just... a seat.