Letter from the Mayor

Greetings!

I am delighted to welcome you to Chico, a distinctive community that prides itself on maintaining a special sense of community and small-town living while evolving into a vibrant regional center for business, recreation, and cultural resources. Chico is a magnet to individuals seeking an environment to live and work while enjoying unparalleled access to outdoor recreation and the social spirit of an involved community. 

What makes Chico so special?  Could it be the charming downtown, with its locally owned shops and beautiful plaza, or is it the tree-lined streets including the majestic Esplanade, or is it Bidwell Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country with hiking trails and swimming holes?  While there’s a long list of things that make Chico unique, what makes Chico special is the people, the people like you, who have chosen to call Chico home.

The City of Chico and the University enjoy a close town-gown partnership.  Not only do we share common geographical boundaries, we share values of sustainability, service, and commitment to a high quality of life. Chico is known as a center for sustainability with significant accomplishments in business, education, and government.  With plenty of sunshine, the community is committed to alternative energy.  The City was awarded an EPA Green Power award for its 1.1 MW Solar Photovoltaic facility, and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. produces over 1.4 MW of solar AC power for the brewery. The University is a charter campus of the American and University Presidents Climate Commitment and has incorporated sustainability into its strategic initiative and integrated it into its curriculum.

Chico is a caring community and is home to hundreds of non-profit organizations ready to welcome you to get involved and a make a difference. Recognized by the Carnegie Foundation in the field of Community Engagement for its collaborative partnerships with local agencies, Chico State encourages its students to serve and become fully engaged citizens of Chico.  Nationally recognized Community Action Volunteers in Education (CAVE) offers opportunities to volunteer in over 20 programs serving organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Bidwell Park, and Adopted Grandparents.

When I moved to Chico as a Chico State student in 1975, I discovered the warm, welcoming community of my dreams. I was proud to call Chico home from the start, and my ongoing involvement through community service has deepened that pride. I strongly believe in community service and live by this ethic in my personal and professional life.  Chico is a great place to go to school, live, work, and play.  But don’t take my word for it–go out and discover Chico for yourself and discover yourself in the process.

Welcome to the community,
Ann M. Schwab
Mayor, City of Chico