Housing

While new housing developments in the Chico area tend to be on the outskirts of town, the Barber Yard project would be closer to the city’s center. The project is currently in the community review phase and has several environmental impacts to consider.

The failed housing development was defeated in the March 2024 primaries. Now, the developer’s legal team is filing a claim against the city that alleges violation of state law.

Police chiefs in the North State have different approaches to assisting with potential deportations. Also, homeowners impacted by the Dixie Fire can receive financial assistance from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, and many Chico residents feel unsafe walking at night due to a lack of street lamps, but some advocates say steps need to be taken to keep our skies dark at night.

The number of people served by Butte County’s sobering center has increased since it opened in August. Also, California homeowners will have new requirements for hardening their home against fire, and Pleasant Valley High School in Chico has won the 2025 Butte County Academic Decathlon, ending Las Plumas High School's five-year winning streak.

The People of New Directions provides unhoused people with jobs cleaning up encampments. Through the employment program, they gain experience, create connections and support one another.

Winter is on its way, and so are more storms and low temperatures. Safe Space is getting ready to provide emergency shelter, but needs volunteers.

The nonprofit Safe Space had identified a potential location for its office, and to use as an intake center. After being told it would cost thousands of dollars to apply for a land-use permit, the group is weighing other options.

As residents’ finances are strained by high rent costs, some find a rent control proposition on this November’s ballot appealing and others say it’s not the answer.

The Butte County Office of Education is hosting community meetings for residents to share what they would like to see in the next Chico Unified School District superintendent. Also, the city of Chico announced they're planning to clear three homeless encampments, and Paradise town officials said the community has achieved 90% compliance with its defensible space requirements.

Two housing-related measures will be on the ballot in November, including a statewide rent control proposal that has already been rejected twice by voters.