Paradise Town Council prioritizes urgent sewer system to attract new businesses

The Town of Paradise is taking significant steps toward revitalizing its downtown area, with a strong emphasis on establishing a sewer system as a critical component for attracting new businesses. During a special town council meeting held on August 14, 2025, council members and community stakeholders discussed the urgent need for a functional sewer system to support economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents.

A key speaker highlighted the current challenges facing the town, noting that without a sewer system, efforts to rebuild and attract businesses to the downtown area have stalled. The speaker pointed out that despite improvements in infrastructure, such as new roads and landscaping, the lack of a sewer system has hindered new development since the devastating fire that impacted the community. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the speaker's mention of the town's reliance on funds from the fire victims trust to cover operational costs, which cannot continue indefinitely.

The discussion also touched on the financial implications of the sewer project. It was revealed that the town is currently deficit spending, with a significant portion of its budget allocated to fire and police services. The speaker emphasized that establishing a sewer system is essential not only for attracting businesses but also for ensuring the town can eventually sustain itself financially without relying on external funds.

In addition to the sewer system, the meeting included discussions about water reclamation policies and the potential for partnerships with local water boards to enhance wastewater treatment capabilities. While there are no current mandates for new treatment plants, the town is exploring options for future improvements in water management.

The council's commitment to involving local agencies in the planning process was also highlighted, with an emphasis on collaboration to ensure the project's long-term viability. However, concerns were raised about the ongoing roadwork and its impact on residents' quality of life, as the community faces several years of construction before seeing the benefits of these improvements.

As the town moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on creating a vibrant, walkable downtown that can support local businesses and enhance the overall community experience. The council's actions reflect a broader goal of fostering economic resilience and ensuring that Paradise can thrive in the wake of past challenges.