The City of Chico City Council convened on September 16, 2025, to discuss various community concerns, with a significant focus on street lighting and public safety. The meeting began with a presentation by Bridal Audubon, the Director of Public Works and Engineering, who reported on the results of a recent street lighting survey. The survey garnered 147 responses, revealing widespread concerns about public safety due to inadequate lighting, particularly in older neighborhoods where modern lighting standards were not previously implemented.

Council members expressed agreement on the need to prioritize safety in lighting decisions. Council Member Van Overbrick emphasized that safety should take precedence over aesthetic concerns, such as preserving views of the night sky. Council Member O'Brien echoed this sentiment, highlighting specific dark areas in District 1 that pose safety risks, particularly at major intersections.

The discussion also touched on the financial implications of installing new street lights, with estimates ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 per light, depending on various factors, including electrical connection costs. Council members acknowledged the challenge of funding these improvements, with suggestions to explore budget allocations and potential pilot projects for street lighting grants.

Council Member Ryan proposed creating a prioritized list of the most critical areas needing lighting improvements, suggesting that the council utilize the survey data to inform their decisions. The council agreed on the importance of community input and the need for a systematic approach to address lighting deficiencies across the city.

As the meeting progressed, the council recognized the necessity of integrating street lighting improvements into the city’s capital improvement plan (CIP) to ensure funding and implementation. The discussion concluded with a consensus on the need for further analysis and planning to address the identified lighting needs effectively.

The council's next steps will involve reviewing the survey results, prioritizing areas for lighting enhancements, and determining funding strategies in preparation for the upcoming budget cycle. The meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing public safety through improved street lighting while balancing community concerns about light pollution.