Several Oroville residents used the Jan. 7 public-comment period to press the council on safety and homeless-services issues.

Kenley Palmer told the council her family has been repeatedly threatened by packs of dogs near a nearby homeless encampment. "My grandmother's home has been a sanctuary for many children ... Recently, night after night, we have been plagued by pit bulls from a nearby homeless encampment," Palmer said. She said she has counted about 20 dogs within a quarter mile and described an incident in which her 9-year-old cousin ran inside "terrified" after dogs approached the property; Palmer said the family has reported the problem to police and the SPCA but needs more action from the landowner and the city.

A speaker identified in the record as the "cameraman" urged the council to address public-transportation safety and lighting at County Center Drive bus stops and flagged concerns following the recent arson at the Bidwell Mansion. The cameraman said better lighting would help riders feel safer, that jurisdictional responsibility between city and county complicates the work, and that "we should look into maintaining fire safety since supposedly during this incident the fire alarm was not working as it should have been." He also made comments urging measures to preserve historic buildings.

During council reports, Councilmember Johnstone announced volunteer needs and training for the county's point-in-time (PIT) homeless count: an online teams training on Thursday, Jan. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m.; an in-person training in Oroville on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. (Andy's Room, 78 Table Mountain Boulevard); and additional trainings Jan. 22 and Jan. 23. Johnstone characterized the PIT as a countywide survey that helps service providers understand the counts and needs of people experiencing homelessness and to align resources.

Other public commenters offered praise for council members and prayers for community continuity; Bill Spear opened with scripture and a prayer for city leaders.

Ending: Councilmembers acknowledged the public comments and staff noted follow-up options. Vice Mayor Smith said public works is coordinating with PG&E and county partners on lighting issues at County Center Drive. Staff accepted contact information from residents seeking follow-up on encampment and animal-control complaints.