Sparks, Nevada
Candidates, key issues, voting info, latest news — ask anything.
Sign in to ask questions about this election.
City
S parks is a mid-sized city in Washoe County anchored by rail transportation history and now diversifying with retail and service industry jobs. The city sits in the Reno metro area's economic orbit, making it a bedroom community for many workers while also serving as a regional commerce hub. City Council and the Mayor handle zoning decisions, infrastructure projects, and local code enforcement that directly shape whether Sparks stays affordable and functional as the region grows. With 108,000 residents and significant Hispanic and white populations, the council's decisions on housing, schools, and public services touch nearly everyone here.
Why it matters
The Mayor and City Council control local zoning and development permits, set property tax rates (within state limits), and decide how city funds are spent on roads, parks, and services. These officials also set the tone on housing affordability and business-friendly policies that determine whether Sparks grows sustainably or faces overcrowding and rising costs.
0
Population
0
Median Income
City
District Type
State
Nevada
County
Washoe
Offices on ballot
Mayor, Ward 2 Council Member, Ward 4 Council Member
Election year
2026
Regional context
Part of Reno metropolitan area
Nonpartisan
Mayor Ed Lawson was appointed Mayor in 2020 following the death of Mayor Ron Smith. He previously served on the Sparks City Council for approximately 10 years representing Ward 2.
Nonpartisan
City Councilwoman Charlene Bybee is a three-term elected official who has served on the Sparks City Council since 2012. She spent four decades as an American Airlines flight attendant and is now seeking to become mayor.
Nonpartisan
Wendi Rawson is a small business owner who operates Engine 8 Urban Winery in Sparks and is running for mayor in 2026.
Nonpartisan
Dian VanderWell is the incumbent City Council member representing Ward 2. She was appointed to the position in 2020 and has experience as a real estate agent and served on the Washoe County Planning Commission.
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau · Ballotpedia
Select your preferred candidate. Your vote is anonymous and can be changed until election day.
0 voters have weighed in
No votes yet. Be the first to share your choice.
We're glad to see you!
New to WeVote? Claim your Voter Profile now!
Are you an elected rep? Claim account
Join thousands of verified voters to weigh in.
Already have an account? Log in
Are you an elected rep? Claim account
No worries! Enter your email and we'll send you reset instructions.
Remember your password? Back to Login
Your email address has not been confirmed yet. Please check your inbox or request a new confirmation link below.
Didn't receive the email?
Already confirmed? Back to Login
You need to take action to continue.
You're currently in
Joining this room will disconnect you from the current one.
The meeting has ended.
Start the Conversation
Be the first to share your thoughts on this petition. Your voice matters!