already has the electrical infrastructure to support these operations. “We’re centrally located to bring fuel out of the mountains to these facilities, plus we have a good partnership with PG&E,” he says. PG&E’s presence also includes the new Oroville Assessment Center that certifies tree service contractors.The first and only facility in the Utility industry that ensures competency of utility contractors and equipment. RESIDENTIAL GROWTH AND INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES As Oroville continues to attract residents and businesses, city officials are focusing on expanding housing options and bolstering infrastructure to accommodate this growth. According to Ring, there has been a surge in affordable apartment complexes in recent years, but the emphasis is now shifting. “We’re focusing more on market-rate apartments and single-family homes,” he says, describing the city’s vision for a balanced housing market. Several approved subdivisions are primed for development West of Oroville, near the airport and across the Feather River.“Some are already under construction,” Ring notes, pointing to a 200-lot project underway and another 250-lot development just south of town. The city’s infrastructure is prepared to support this growth, with recent upgrades to the sewer system doubling its pump capacity. Mayor Pittman highlights Oroville’s proactive approach to infrastructure.“We’ve planned ahead,” he says confidently, noting the recent expansion of the local hospital will attract healthcare professionals. Piatt echoes this sentiment, mentioning that the city has several thousand entitled lots ready for development. Within the next year and a half, he expects several hundred new homes to be built. Piatt also mentions a major mixed-use project on the horizon—a planned development with 1,700 homes and a commercial component. Oroville’s appeal is multi-dimensional. For those seeking a more rural lifestyle, the surrounding areas offer spacious ranchettes where residents can enjoy a few acres of land. “We’re a central hub for smaller communities like Honcut, Bangor, Feather Falls, and Berry Creek,” says Mayor Pittman. These areas draw people looking to combine family life with outdoor space, often choosing properties that support activities like horseback riding or smallscale farming. Regarding zoning flexibility, the city allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs), allowing homeowners to add secondary residences to their properties. “If someone wants to build an ADU and meets the setbacks, it’s already permitted,” says Piatt. The city’s “business-friendly” approach includes a design review committee that engages with developers and 51 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 12 OROVILLE, CA
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