Reno City Council member Devon Reese faces ethics complaint over conflict of interest allegations

The January 16, 2025, meeting of the Nevada Commission on Ethics commenced with an opportunity for public comment, where Margaret Piscovich, a former president of the State Bar and the first female to hold that position, addressed the commission. Piscovich recounted her experience with an ethics complaint she filed against Devon Reese, a member of the Reno City Council, highlighting concerns about conflicts of interest that she believed were not adequately addressed by the State Bar. She expressed her belief that Reese had not learned from past mistakes regarding ethical conduct and suggested that his connections may have influenced the handling of her complaint.

Following public comments, the commission moved to approve the minutes from the previous meeting held on November 13, 2024. The minutes were unanimously approved, with Commissioners Lowery and Smith abstaining from the vote due to their absence or new status.

The meeting then progressed to a significant agenda item concerning an alleged failure to comply with a deferral agreement related to ethics complaint case number 24104C against Devon Reese. The commission began discussions on this matter, with commission counsel Bassett providing a disclosure for transparency regarding the involvement of senior deputy attorney general St. Jules in the case.

The meeting underscored ongoing concerns about ethical practices within local government, particularly regarding the actions of elected officials. The commission's deliberations on the allegations against Reese are expected to continue, with implications for both his position and the broader ethical standards within Nevada's public service. Further actions and decisions will be closely monitored in upcoming meetings.