About Katherine

Katherine Yriarte ('YAR-tay') has called Washoe County home since early childhood, when her parents moved to Reno in 1986. As a small business owner and dedicated advocate for Washoe County’s rural communities, Katherine and her husband Daniel operate Team Yriarte Horsemanship, earning a reputation as one of the most trusted professional horse trainers in Northern Nevada. Since 2016, they have been bridging the gap between horses and their owners, fostering understanding and creating safe, lasting partnerships. Katherine's life is built on service, hard work, and integrity, principles that guide her as she seeks to become the District 5 Commissioner. 

As the founder and president of the Nevada Equine Council, Katherine has championed policies that protect open spaces, support agriculture, and strengthen the equine and rural industries fundamental to District 5. Her leadership is anchored in real-world experience — navigating local regulations, collaborating with community partners, and listening to the concerns of her neighbors and fellow business owners. Katherine believes that true leadership begins with listening, and she is committed to ensuring every resident of Washoe County, from the rural frontier to the subdivisions, has a voice in shaping the future — not just during election season, but every day. 

Faith and family are the cornerstones of Katherine’s life and leadership. Guided by her Christian faith and values, she believes that the strength of our community is defined by how we care for one another, from our children to our elders. Her personal journey of caring for her parents has deepened her commitment to supporting families at every stage of life. With her father in an independent senior living facility in west Reno and her mother living with her after the passing of her stepfather, Katherine is inspired to advocate for policies that make multigenerational living more dignified and attainable. Additionally, her commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities is deeply personal. One of her closest friends is the mother of a remarkable teenage daughter with special needs, whose strength and resilience have profoundly impacted Katherine’s life. This experience has opened her eyes to the gaps in county resources and the pressures on parents and caregivers, inspiring her to advocate for stronger programs, better accessibility, and increased support for families of children and adults with disabilities. Katherine envisions a Washoe County where all individuals, including older adults and residents with disabilities, can live with dignity, families can stay connected, and community support reflects the compassion and resilience that are the hallmarks of Nevada values. 

Katherine’s priorities as a candidate for District 5 Commissioner reflect the values of our community: 

• Standing up for rural and agricultural communities by ensuring fair access to resources and representation. 
• Reforming outdated and burdensome commercial codes that hinder small, family-run, and equine-related businesses. 
• Protecting open spaces and promoting responsible growth to ensure future generations can enjoy the same Nevada landscapes we cherish today. 
• Expanding senior and disability care and resources to support dignity, independence, and strong family and community connections. 

With a strong moral compass, deep local roots, and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving, Katherine Yriarte is ready to bring transparency, integrity, and accountability back to county government. 

Vote Katherine Yriarte for Washoe County Commission, District 5 — because integrity matters, and so does your voice.