The well-know mutual aid Northern Nevada activist Lily Baran sent a press release this morning, January 15th, 2024, announcing her candidacy for City Council Ward 1 for the upcoming election cycle.
In recent years, Baran has been a tireless advocate for the unhoused and on the front lines of multiple social justice hot button issues, from Black Lives Matter to defending abortion rights. She operates the Hampton House Garden Project in file photo above which is a community garden giving back to neighbors in need.
Baran previously put her hat in the ring for Ward 3 in 2022 when there was a selection process after Oscar Delgado stepped down mid term.
Despite getting lots of call in and public comments supporting her during the selection project, she wasn't even picked by the current Council as a finalist and the position eventually went to Miguel Martinez.
Another selected council member Kathleen Taylor, who was chosen to replace Neoma Jardon, is also running for Ward 1, now that the city's electoral map was reconfigured to eliminate the at-large seat and a new Ward 6 was added.
“As a proud Ward 1 resident dedicated to serving my neighbors, I am excited to announce my candidacy for City Council," she is quoted as saying in her press release.
"After tremendous support from the community during the appointment process for the recently vacated seat, it is clear I have the trust of the people to lead Reno into the bright, thriving city that we all know is possible now that their voices can be heard at the ballot box.”
The press release touts Baran as having "demonstrated a deep commitment to justice as a champion of effective advocacy. Baran is committed to protecting the environment, housing, public safety through evidence-based practices, public health, and abortion access."
Former Library Board Trustee Frank Perez is also running for Ward 1, which encompasses Downtown Reno, Northeast, and University neighborhoods.
The Ward 1 seat is currently held by Jenny Brekhus, who can’t run again because of term limits.