It’s Good to Have Friends …

Our Town Reno’s Facebook post on March 11, 2025.

Is the City of Reno's checkbook only open to those with the right connections? The ReStore Reno Program's spending pattern suggests an uncomfortable truth.

First, there's the curious case of Crak N' Grill on Wells Avenue. Despite never opening its doors, the restaurant received taxpayer funds through ReStore Reno for roof repairs, new doors, windows, and paint—essentially giving the property owner a free building upgrade courtesy of Reno residents.

But that seems almost quaint compared to the Uncle Junkee's ReStore funds. Battle Born Properties LLC, owned by Jamal Keshmiri (involved with Wild Orchid, Ben's Liquors, My Salon, and other local businesses), received over $72,000 in matching funds—essentially a 50% discount on property improvements.

Battle Born Properties LLC from the Nevada Secretary of State.

The kicker? Keshmiri is a known campaign contributor to Mayor Hillary Schieve, and the beneficiary of these city-subsidized improvements was Jessica Schneider—Schieve's former business partner.

Nevada Secretary of State Contribution and Expense Report from May 20, 2014.

It's like having taxpayers buy half your Rolex—a comparison Mayor Schieve might appreciate given her taste in timepieces. When public funds flow so freely between friends, perhaps it's time for Reno residents to start asking questions.

City of Reno Instagram Post from December 14, 2023. ‘Mayor Schieve, Councilmember Martinez and Councilmember Taylor announced the first round of awardees of the ReStore Reno program which offers matching grants to property owners and business tenants for façade improvements and interior upgrades. $455,000 has been awarded so far and there is still $595,000 available.”