UPDATE: Oroville’s city leaders are expressing strong optimism for 2026, highlighting significant growth in infrastructure, housing development, and business opportunities, while also cautioning about economic challenges. Elected officials gathered to share their forecasts for the coming year, emphasizing a transformative period for the city.
Councilor Tracy Johnstone asserted, “Oroville’s best days are in front of us.” She anticipates a surge in community events and local business openings, aiming for a noticeable decrease in pothole grievances. Her vision for Oroville includes a thriving community that actively engages with city governance to foster investment and improvement.
Councilor Shawn Webber echoed this enthusiasm, predicting a “year of activity” that will enhance the lives of Oroville residents. He emphasized the importance of transparency in city council operations and stated, “No more business as usual anymore because the citizens deserve more, deserve better.”
Mayor Dave Pittman also shared an optimistic outlook, citing numerous projects set for 2026 that promise to elevate the quality of life. Among these, the highly anticipated Chick-fil-A franchise on Oro Damn Boulevard is scheduled to begin construction in spring 2026, with an opening projected for fall 2026. Pittman revealed that Chick-fil-A stand-alone franchises typically generate millions in sales, potentially boosting Oroville’s tax revenue significantly.
Other major initiatives include a 48-megawatt solar farm by Butte Renewable Energy Inc. and a $36 million asphalt replacement project on Highway 162, set to commence this summer. The Sewerage Commission-Oroville Region (SC-OR) will replace the outdated Ruddy Creek Pump Station, improving essential services for residents. Additionally, 60 affordable senior apartments are slated for completion on Lincoln Boulevard, along with renovations to Hewitt Park.
However, challenges loom on the horizon. Councilor Eric Smith warned of economic pressures impacting 2026, despite recent decreases in gas prices potentially signaling improvement. He stated, “The cost of fuel impacts everything… I’m hoping that gas prices will stay down and with that people’s optimism about the economy will go up.”
Johnstone reinforced the need for fiscal responsibility and transparency in governance, acknowledging that while obstacles will arise, they also present opportunities for growth and trust-building between the city and its residents.
Community concerns are also expected to escalate, particularly regarding proposed biomass gasification projects. Councilor Janet Goodson predicted these developments will ignite significant public debate, stating, “The conversation around biomass will not be quiet; it will be a focal point of public discourse in the year ahead.”
In a surprising twist, Smith projected the potential relicensing of Oroville Dam by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which could release approximately $1 billion from the Department of Water Resources. This could catalyze the growth Oroville has long awaited.
As 2026 approaches, Oroville stands on the cusp of pivotal transformations. City officials are eager to engage with residents to ensure a future that reflects their hopes and aspirations. With a mix of excitement and caution, the community watches closely as plans unfold for a year filled with promise and potential challenges.
Stay tuned for updates as Oroville prepares for what could be a landmark year.
