RENO, Nev. (AP) — A jury has sided with dozens of northern Nevada homeowners who filed a class-action lawsuit accusing the city of Reno of causing flood damage to dozens of homes and property north of town in Lemmon Valley.
The Washoe County District jury returned a verdict Wednesday that found the city was liable for using private property without adequately compensating the owners. It determined the city was not guilty of trespassing or causing a nuisance.
The suit claimed the city pumped, diverted or discharged excess storm water into the normally dry bed of Swan Lake, which overflowed during the winter of 2016-17.
The city maintained the homeowners were the victims of an unforeseen natural disaster.
City Attorney Karl Hall says they're considering whether to appeal.
The second phase of the trial is scheduled for December when damages will be considered.