Ward 3 Candidates Debate Carson City Projects
Incumbent Curtis Horton and challenger Mayita Sanchez discuss city hall and garage plans at a recent candidate forum.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in City Hall
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Carson City Ward 3 supervisor candidates Curtis Horton and Mayita Sanchez faced off at a forum held at the Brewery Arts Center. The debate highlighted ongoing negotiations for a new city hall and a parking garage project.
Why it matters
The outcome of this race will shape the city's approach to major infrastructure spending, including the use of public funds for large-scale development projects. The candidates differ on how to manage municipal budgets as the city balances these proposals against road maintenance needs.
The proposed parking garage will cost $17 million, with the city contributing $8 million to provide between 130 and 180 spaces. Meanwhile, the city hall lease-purchase project is currently estimated at $28 million to $30 million.
The players
Curtis Horton
He is the incumbent Ward 3 supervisor candidate who previously served in the public works department for 35 years.
Mayita Sanchez
She is a candidate challenging the incumbent for the Ward 3 supervisor seat.
The details
Candidates discussed the city's negotiations with the Hop and Mae Adams Foundation and the use of the Virginia and Truckee sales tax, which generates $2 million annually. The conversation also touched on the 21st Century Road to Housing Act, which provides grants and limits corporate housing acquisitions.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Candidates participated in a forum at Brewery Arts Center.
Political Context
Opponents of these projects often cite concerns over fiscal responsibility and the prioritization of municipal building costs over basic infrastructure maintenance. Advocates for these developments argue that such investments are essential for the long-term growth and revitalization of the downtown area.
Residents will see the impact of these infrastructure decisions through potential changes in road maintenance funding and property tax or lease commitments. Future traffic capacity and city services will be directly influenced by which candidate wins the Ward 3 seat.
The takeaway
Voters should consider how each candidate balances the need for new civic buildings with the ongoing requirement for reliable road maintenance. Evaluate how the proposed sales tax allocations and development costs align with the long-term fiscal health of Carson City.
Further reading
For more on the local election, visit City Hall.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nevada Appeal.
Live Poll
Should your local government prioritize large-scale corporate infrastructure partnerships over direct community oversight?
