Restrooms around the clock, local moves battling climate change and cold weather shelter were among the issues before the Chico City Council Tuesday night.
Many of the issues were old and many of the points rehashed, but with new faces on the council following last autumn’s election, last night’s results were certainly different.
Climate Change
An example: climate change. Until recently, debate centered on whether a municipal response to a global problem was appropriate or folly. Last night, it was the former with the council adopting stricter state emissions goals.
Environmental campaigner Dave Garcia was among about 15 who spoke in favor. He drew a connection between increasingly destructive fires and storms with a changing climate.
“The destruction of nearly 14,000 homes, and 85 deaths is a testimonial that our politicians did not heed the warning and have failed us,” Garcia said.
The council assigned the city’s Sustainability Task Force with writing a detailed report on how Chico and its residents can reach the new goals.
Public Restrooms
Public restrooms were another major issue. Hoping to control vandalism, city owned restrooms are locked overnight, which has led many wanting to relieve themselves during those hours to use unsanitary options. After much debate the council directed staffers to develop full cost estimates for two portable restrooms and a graffiti and hooligan resistant Portland Loo, a metal toilet inside a structure partly clad in louvered slats. The design is meant to discourage illicit behavior. The issue will return.
Emergency Warming Center
An emergency warming center, only several weeks old, appears to have staying power. The council directed staffers to work out a deal with the Jesus Center, a homeless services provider, to tentatively take over the concept. Council members agreed that the service would be provided when overnight lows drop below freezing. An average of about 35 people a night have used the center according to City Manager Mark Orme.
In other action, the council waived a requirement that sidewalks be built anywhere a new accessory dwelling or ‘mother-in-law unit’ is constructed. The council also appointed members to the Art Commission and debated allowing cannabis-related businesses.