to pursue development projects by making city processes more accessible in this way. Another project with a significant community impact is Oroville’s “Civic 101” program, an educational initiative that introduces how the city functions to bridge gaps between different parts of the community. Piatt explains that one neighborhood, annexed into the city in 2015, has historically felt isolated. “We’re just now kicking off a program in that area, working with residents to help them build community themselves, with us providing guidance and support,” he says. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure all residents feel connected and invested in Oroville’s future. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Oroville’s focus on education goes beyond community-building efforts; it also includes vocational training tailored to the needs of local industries.The city has partnered with Butte College to develop a satellite campus offering cybersecurity, IT, and robotics programs. “Our industries—like the metalworks, wood manufacturing, and fruit production companies—all use robotics, so we want to train local people to fill those roles,” Piatt says, adding that the goal is to create a steady pipeline of skilled workers, ensuring that jobs stay local. Sustainability also plays a central role in Oroville’s plans. The city is set to become a hub for biomass energy production because of a vast amount of timber from recent wildfires and forest management efforts. “There’s an unimaginable amount of wood coming down from the mountains,” Piatt says, explaining that three biomass companies are about to open in Oroville. Converting this surplus timber into energy will prevent the city from decaying and releasing carbon back into the atmosphere, creating a “negative balance” for carbon emissions and helping reduce the area’s environmental footprint. Mayor Pittman emphasizes Oroville’s strategic location for biomass facilities, noting that the city 50 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 12
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