The Reno City Council gathered for a special meeting Thursday, Sept. 25 to decide whether to remove City Administrator Paul Lilly from office after a series of odd behaviors gave way to speculation. Lilly was sworn in to the position Aug. 11.
“It was last week that I watched the vote up here that was 4 to 1 to give Paul Lilly the authority to hire and fire,” said resident Stuart White during the citizen participation portion of the meeting. “What transpired? What happened during the last couple of days that all of a sudden he’s on the Most Wanted List?” White asked, referring to city ordinance No. 2025-08 which gives Lilly the authority to hire, discipline and fire certain city positions. The question seemed to permeate the room.
Speculation began Sept.12 when Lilly appeared to be disoriented, having slurred speech and unsteady footing, according to witnesses. This sparked rumors that Lilly may have been under the influence of some unknown substance and was the reason Mayor Hector Bas put Lilly on paid administrative leave — an unprecedented move unbeknownst to the other council members.
