Paradise community voices concerns over wastewater facility designs and public health risks

Concerns over public health and wastewater management dominated the Town of Paradise's Special Town Council Meeting on August 14, 2025. Local residents and officials voiced strong opinions about the need for careful planning in the development of a new wastewater discharge facility, emphasizing the importance of balancing cost with public health implications.

Al McGrath, a long-time resident, highlighted the potential risks associated with poorly designed wastewater systems, referencing the West Nile virus outbreak in Butte County. He urged the council to involve local districts in the planning process to avoid creating health hazards. "The proper wastewater discharge facility can either produce a public health concern or a manageable system," McGrath stated, stressing the need for expertise in design and maintenance.

The council discussed the engagement of HDR, an environmental consulting firm, to assist with the preparation of a new Environmental Impact Report (EIR). This report will evaluate potential sites for the wastewater facility, with options including areas near Lower Skyway and Neil Road. Council members acknowledged the importance of community input in this process.

Residents expressed concerns about the adequacy of a full sewer system, suggesting that an effluent-only system might be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Melissa Shuster, a trustee of the Butte County Mosquito Vector Control District, echoed these sentiments, warning against the pitfalls of models like the one used in Biggs, which has struggled with mosquito issues.

As the council moves forward with the planning process, the focus remains on ensuring that any new wastewater facility not only meets regulatory requirements but also safeguards public health and the environment. The next steps will involve community engagement and further evaluation of site options, with the aim of finding a solution that serves the needs of Paradise effectively.