Chico Times

Butte County is facing significant budget challenges, prompting the County's Chief Administrative Officer, Andy Pickett, to reach out to residents for feedback and input. Pickett highlighted the importance of community services in Butte County, stating, "As you know, Butte County provides a variety of community services to our residents, making it a great place to live, raise a family and retire."

The financial difficulties stem from the loss of millions of dollars annually due to State clawbacks and unfunded mandates, impacting the County's ability to maintain services at desired levels. Pickett noted that the current service provision relies heavily on one-time funds, which are not sustainable for the future.

Acknowledging the constraints posed by available funding, Pickett emphasized the County's commitment to prioritizing resident safety and quality of life. In an effort to bridge the budget gap, County staff are considering a 1¢ sales tax measure for the November 5, 2024 ballot, aimed at supporting essential services like wildfire protection, law enforcement, child welfare, and more.

Pickett underscored the County's dedication to transparency and accountability, ensuring that any local funding measure would include strict fiscal oversight and public disclosure of spending. He urged residents to participate in shaping the County's future by sharing their thoughts and priorities through an online survey and attending community meetings scheduled to discuss the proposal and budget challenges.

"As we move forward in our efforts to shape the future of Butte County, we want to ensure that the voices of County residents are heard," Pickett stated, emphasizing the value of community input in resource allocation and decision-making processes. Residents are encouraged to take part in the survey and engage in the dialogue to help chart a course that serves the entire community.