Quick reads — Families sue Chico over 2025 E. coli outbreak, alleging safety failures

Four Northern California families are suing the city of Chico over an E. coli outbreak linked to swimming areas in Bidwell Park, including Sycamore Pool, in 2025.

The lawsuit, filed in Butte County Superior Court, alleges the city failed to follow required water-testing rules and kept the Sycamore Pool open despite elevated E. coli bacteria levels, according to a press release from the plaintiffs' attorneys,

Four children became ill after swimming in Big Chico Creek during the summer of 2025, including three who developed a life-threatening complication of E. coli, according to the release.

The families are seeking compensation for medical costs and other damages.

NSPR reached out to the city of Chico for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Butte County Graphics

Butte County has selected its next top administrator.

County supervisors unanimously approved a three-year contract Tuesday appointing Meegan Jessee as the county's next chief administrative officer. She will begin the role Oct. 1.

Jessee currently serves as the county's assistant chief administrative officer. Under the contract, her starting salary will be about $281,000 a year, with 5% raises scheduled in each of the next two years.

Retiring Chief Administrative Officer Andy Pickett praised Jessee during Tuesday's meeting, calling her the most qualified person to lead the county.