After a lengthy presentation and public comment on deferred maintenance and three CIP scenarios, the council voted 4–3 to adopt the moderate‑risk cash option (Option 4b) that stages larger increases in years 1–2 and smaller increases thereafter; staff will initiate Proposition 218 notice and return with public hearings and annual progress reports.

Public works directors told the council a hybrid model of in-house staff plus consultants is cost-effective given volatile funding; dozens of public commenters and several council members urged caution about privatization and called for pension and budget alternatives.

After debate about scientific evidence and equity, the Chico City Council voted 4–3 to include funding in the FY 2026–27 budget development process to offer the Galleri early‑detection blood test to Public Works operations and maintenance employees, with staff estimating up to $66,000 if all 103 employees participate.