Planning commission recommends approval of development agreement for affordable housing at 306 10th Street

The Sparks Planning Commission voted to find the proposed development agreement (PCN 26-0002DA26-001) for 306 10th Street consistent with the city's comprehensive plan and forwarded a recommendation of approval to the Sparks City Council.

Amy Jones, a housing specialist with city staff, presented the proposed development agreement between the City of Sparks and Northern Nevada Community Housing. Jones said the site, approximately 0.96 acres at the corner of 10th Street and Avenue of the Oaks in Downtown Sparks, was acquired through the Home Means Nevada initiative and that the city received $2,800,000 in Home Means Nevada funding for land acquisition. She said an RFP was issued in April 2025 and Northern Nevada Community Housing was selected by Sparks City Council.

Jones described the proposed project, "The Reserve at Sparks," as a single three-story building served by an elevator with, as presented, "41 bedroom units," targeted to households earning 60% or less of area median income with a veteran preference. The agreement requires a minimum of 40 dwelling units, affordability covenants ensuring units remain affordable for 50 years, and developer commitments including 20 hours per week of on-site supportive services and a partnership with the Food Bank of Northern Nevada.

Key development-agreement terms Jones highlighted: a five-year DA term with a two-year extension option; administrative review required within two years and a building permit within four years; and reconveyance clauses if development does not proceed under the prescribed timelines or if construction ceases for a continuous period (nine months was cited). Jones also noted that HUD environmental review and approval will be required before the parcel can be transferred to the developer under grant-related requirements.

Matthew Fleming, executive director of Northern Nevada Community Housing, thanked the city and emphasized the project's local history and preservation aims, including coordination with the Sparks Heritage Museum to incorporate historic elements of the existing 1914 structure into the project. "...helping veterans be housed in a safe and dignified way," Fleming said, arguing the project would address veteran and workforce housing needs.

A commissioner moved to find the proposed development agreement consistent with the comprehensive plan and to forward a recommendation of approval to the Sparks City Council; another commissioner seconded the motion. The chair called the vote and announced the motion was approved. The item will proceed to the City Council for final action.

Next steps: the development agreement and related permitting actions will proceed through the city's review and then to the City Council; HUD environmental clearance is required before the parcel is transferred to the developer.