Attends meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions and reviews publications and audiovisual materials to become and remain current on principles, practices, and new developments in assigned work areas.
Prepares, processes and tracks loan pay off documents, staff documents for agenda, and legal documents for recording.
Acts as the Town’s representative and liaison on relevant topics, including responding to questions and comments from the public in a courteous and timely manner and collaborating with involved parties to reach resolutions on identified issues.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
Organization and function of public agencies, including the role of an elected Town Council and appointed boards and commissions.
Applicable codes, regulations, policies, guidelines technical processes and procedures related to a housing rehabilitation program.
Basic practices of banking, finance, insurance, real estate and construction industries. Practices and procedures of real estate loans, escrow, and loan servicing. Analyzing personal and business financials, and credit reports Principles and practice of contract administration.
Business arithmetic and basic statistical techniques. Basic principles of record keeping.
Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and Town staff.
The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination.
Computers and software programs (e.g., Microsoft software packages) to conduct, compile, and/or generate documentation.
Ability to:
Perform responsible technical administrative support work with accuracy, speed, and minimal supervision.
Provide varied, responsible administrative support work requiring the use of independent judgment, tact and discretion.
Understand the organization and operation of the Town and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
Develop, interpret, apply, and explain a wide variety of technical policies and procedures, and communicate difficult procedures and regulations to those encountered in the course of work. Read, comprehend, and translate blueprints, plans, and related items. Research, analyze, and summarize data, and prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations.
Organize, maintain, and update office database and loan records systems. Quickly learn and use new skills and knowledge due to rapidly changing information and/or technology.
Develop creative alternatives to problem solving and conflicts. Make accurate arithmetic, financial and statistical computations. 257
Housing Program Technician
Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
Effectively represent the division and the Town in meetings with governmental agencies; community groups; various business, professional, and regulatory organizations; and in meetings with individuals. Learn and understand the organization and operation of the Town and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments. Effectively use computer systems, software applications, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to an associate degree in real estate, finance, economics, business, or a related field, and two (2) years of experience in loan processing, property rehabilitation, construction, escrow procedures, financial accounting, real estate transactions, and/or public agency programs.
Licenses and Certifications:
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver’s License by time of appointment and a satisfactory driving record.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle, to visit various Town and meeting sites and to inspect various residential sites; vision to read printed materials, a computer screen, and to perform inspections; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups and over the telephone. This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing in work areas and walking between work areas may be required.
Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects necessary to perform job functions.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. 258
TOWN OF PARADISE
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-__
A RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE, CALIFORNIA,
ADOPTING AN AMMENDMENT TO THE SALARY PAY PLAN TO INCLUDE A HOUSING PROGRAM TECHNICIAN FOR TOWN OF PARADISE EMPLOYEES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 WHEREAS, the Town wishes to revise the salary pay plan; and WHEREAS, the salary pay plan will incorporate all salary paid within the Town into one salary pay plan.
NOW, THEREFORE be it resolved by the Town Council of the Town of Paradise, that the Town of Paradise salary pay plan attached to this resolution is hereby adopted.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Town Council of the Town of Paradise on this 13th day of October 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
Steve Crowder, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Melanie Elvis, Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________________
Scott Huber, Town Attorney
259
Head
Count Auth FTE's Budget FTE
Position
Title Hours
A
Step
B
Step
C
Step
D
Step
E
Step
F
Step
TOWN OF PARADISE
SALARY PAY PLAN FY 2026/27
AS OF July 01, 2026
1.00 1.00 1.00 HOUSING PROGRAM TECHNICIAN
HOURLY 1 31.47 33.04 34.69 36.42 38.24 40.15
WEEKLY 40 1,258.80 1,321.60 1,387.60 1,456.80 1,529.60 1,606.00 BIWEEKLY 80 2,517.60 2,643.20 2,775.20 2,913.60 3,059.20 3,212.00 MONTHLY 173 5,444.31 5,715.92 6,001.37 6,300.66 6,615.52 6,945.95 ANNUAL 2080 65,457.60 68,723.20 72,155.20 75,753.60 79,539.20 83,512.00 260
Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: October 13, 2026
Agenda Item: 6(c)
ORIGINATED BY: Colette Curtis, Recovery and Economic
Development Director
REVIEWED BY: Jennifer Macarthy, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Aesthetic Improvements for High Visibility Areas
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
No
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Review options presented by staff for aesthetic improvement in high visibility areas; and
2. Give direction to Staff to bring back specific programs and budget adjustments if necessary for Council approval and implementation; or
3. Give alternate direction to Staff.
Background:
As Paradise continues its recovery eight years after the Camp Fire, the community has made substantial progress rebuilding homes, businesses, and infrastructure. With that progress, there is an opportunity to turn additional attention toward the appearance of the Town's primary gateways and commercial corridors.
Council has expressed interest in identifying opportunities to improve the appearance of areas entering and traveling through Town, particularly along Skyway and Clark Road. While many remaining conditions on private property are not violations of the Paradise Municipal Code, they can contribute to a visual impression that does not fully reflect the progress that has occurred throughout the community.
Examples include chain-link fencing surrounding vacant parcels, empty freestanding sign structures remaining from businesses destroyed in the Camp Fire, tree stumps on vacant properties, and other remnants of the disaster and recovery process.
Staff has identified the following potential programs and initiatives for Council consideration.
These options could be implemented individually or combined as a broader aesthetic improvement initiative.
Analysis:
Option 1: Public Right of Way Stump Removal Program
The Town could establish a program to remove stumps within the public right of way. Town staff would first need to complete a full inventory of stumps within the public right of way, and establish priorities for removal. Once a clear scope and understanding of the locations and site locations 261
is determined, staff could issue a request for proposals for the work.
The proposal scope would include traffic control, stump removal, and remediation or stabilization of the resulting voids, with restoration appropriate to each site. This would allow the town to evaluate the full cost of completing the work safely and leaving each location in a stable condition.
After the program is completed, staff could evaluate its results and determine whether to recommend expanding the effort into a separate program which would be voluntary for private property owners.
Option 2: Vacant Commercial Sign Inventory and Removal Program In 2023, the Town implemented a sign removal effort addressing signs remaining on properties following the Camp Fire. Council could direct staff to undertake a second phase focused specifically on vacant commercial properties along the Town's primary gateways.
As an initial step, staff could inventory empty standing sign structures on vacant commercial property between the Town limits and Elliott Road along both Clark Road and Skyway.
For each sign, staff would:
Document the approximate height, size, location, and condition of the existing sign structure and determine whether it conforms to current sign regulations. Research available building permit records to determine whether documentation exists regarding the approved size and location of the sign.
Research archived land-use entitlements, including use permits, to determine whether an existing nonconforming sign could potentially be reconstructed at its current height or configuration.
Identify signs that may be appropriate candidates for voluntary removal.
Following the inventory, staff could contact property owners and offer Town-funded removal and disposal of eligible sign structures. Participation would be voluntary and would require written property-owner authorization.
This approach would allow the Town to improve the appearance of major corridors while also ensuring that property owners understand whether removing an existing structure could affect future nonconforming rights or entitlements.
Option 3: Voluntary Chain-Link Fence Removal Program
Chain-link fencing remains on a number of vacant properties throughout Town, including along major commercial corridors. Much of this fencing was installed following the Camp Fire for security, debris removal, construction, or hazard mitigation purposes and may no longer be necessary.
The Town could develop a voluntary outreach program under which staff would identify vacant properties with visible chain-link fencing and contact property owners to determine whether they would like the fencing removed. For participating properties, the Town could provide disposal of the fencing material at Town expense.
This option would require additional review before implementation. In particular, some fencing may continue to serve a legitimate safety, security, or hazard-mitigation purpose. Appropriate property-owner agreements, liability releases, and staff inspection or screening criteria would 262
need to be developed in consultation with the Town Attorney.
Option 4: Town-Sponsored Mural Program
The Town could expand its public art efforts by developing a mural program for highly visible commercial buildings and other appropriate properties.
The program could build upon the success of the Town's utility box mural program and establish a process for identifying participating property owners, selecting artists and artwork, and providing Town funding or matching grants for mural installation.
Priority could be given to buildings along Skyway, Clark Road, Downtown, and other highly visible locations. Artwork could highlight Paradise's natural environment, history, community identity, recovery, and future.
Council could also consider partnerships with local businesses, property owners, arts organizations, schools, and community groups to leverage Town funding.
Option 5: Seasonal Downtown and Gateway Banners
The Town could install decorative banners on existing light poles in Downtown and other appropriate locations. Banners could rotate seasonally or periodically throughout the year.
One cost-effective approach would be to repurpose artwork commissioned through the Town's existing utility box mural program. Selected artwork could be adapted into vertical banner designs, allowing the Town to showcase local artists while creating visual continuity between existing public art investments and the Downtown streetscape.
Banner series could also recognize seasons, community events, Paradise's natural environment, local history, or other themes selected by the Town.
Staff would need to inventory suitable poles and develop estimated production and installation costs.
Financial Impact:
Financial impact varies for each option provided, and no current budget exists for any option today. Programs which provide stump, sign, or fencing removal would incur more significant costs and staff time than the mural or banner programs. Cost for each program would need to be determined as part of Council’s consideration of future program implementation. 263
Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: October 13, 2026
Agenda Item: 6(d)
ORIGINATED BY: Marc Mattox, Assistant Town Manager/Public Works Director
REVIEWED BY: Jennifer Macarthy, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Corporation Yard Property Acquisition and Supplemental Budget Allocation
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
Yes
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Consider approving a supplemental budget allocation of $880,000 from the Long Range Facilities Fund for acquisition of the identified Corporation Yard property, including related escrow, title, closing, due diligence, and transaction costs. (ROLL CALL VOTE) Background:
The Town has been advancing the Facilities Master Plan to guide recovery and replacement of Town facilities damaged or destroyed in the 2018 Camp Fire. The former Public Works Corporation Yard was lost in the fire, and the Town has since operated from a temporary location that does not provide the space, storage, operational layout, security, or long-term capacity needed to support Public Works functions.
In March 2026, the Town entered into a professional-services agreement with Studio W/TSK for Facilities Master Plan planning and design services. That work included a Corporation Yard siteselection and feasibility task.
Analysis:
Studio W/TSK completed a comprehensive evaluation of potential Corporation Yard sites within Town, considering location, parcel configuration, access and circulation, utility availability, topography, environmental constraints, operational suitability, and the ability to support a phased long-term facility.
Based on this analysis, staff identified the Skyway and Center Street property as the preferred location for a replacement Corporation Yard. The property consists of four parcels commonly known as 7005 Skyway, 7025 Skyway, 6186 Center Street, and 6189 Center Street (APNs 052- 040-106, 052-040-105, 052-040-084, and 052-040-085).
The property emerged as the preferred location because it provides the space and configuration needed to support the Town’s current and future Public Works operations. It can accommodate fleet vehicles and equipment, materials storage, maintenance activities, employee support areas, and the operational circulation necessary for efficient day-to-day response, maintenance, and emergency work. Its location also provides a practical foundation for subsequent planning, design, and phased construction of the replacement Corporation Yard through the Facilities Master Plan 264
process.
The Town submitted a vacant-land purchase offer for the property, and the seller issued a counteroffer that the Town has accepted. The transaction remains subject to the purchase agreement terms, including the Town’s due-diligence period and other customary closing requirements.
The Facilities Ad Hoc Committee has been kept apprised of the site-evaluation and acquisition process as it has progressed. Based on the analysis completed to date, the Committee supports moving forward with acquisition of the preferred property as the next step toward development of a permanent replacement Corporation Yard.
The requested authorization is $880,000 for acquisition of the property and related transaction costs. This authorization will allow the Town to complete the acquisition while preserving the need for separate Council authorization for future Corporation Yard design and construction activities as those phases are developed.
Financial Impact:
Approval of the supplemental budget allocation will appropriate $880,000 from the Long Range Facilities Fund for acquisition of the Corporation Yard property and related transaction costs.
The Long Range Facilities Fund was established to separately account for insurance proceeds and other resources available for recovery, replacement, planning, and construction of Town facilities. This appropriation does not authorize future Corporation Yard design or construction expenditures, which will be presented to Council separately as those phases are developed.
Next Steps:
Following close of escrow, the Town will continue utilizing the existing Studio W/TSK Facilities Master Plan contract to advance the Corporation Yard project. The remaining contract scope provides the Town with the ability to refine the operational program and site layout; complete further site investigation and coordination; prepare conceptual, schematic, and design documents; develop cost estimates and phasing recommendations; and ultimately prepare bid documents and provide construction-administration services, subject to future Council direction and authorization.
Beyond the Corporation Yard, the Facilities Master Plan contract supports a broader, Town-wide assessment of the Town’s long-range facility needs, conditions, opportunities, and options. This includes development of a vacant-land inventory and evaluation of Town-owned and potential future sites, as well as strategic planning for the repair, replacement, reuse, consolidation, or redevelopment of Town facilities. Together, these efforts will provide Council with a coordinated framework for prioritizing future facility investments and using the Long Range Facilities Fund to address both immediate recovery needs and longer-term operational needs. 265
Town of Paradise — 4 — +
7005 & 7025 SKYWAY & 6186 & 6189 CENTER STREET
PARCELS 084, 085, 105 & 106
of Paradise
ewer
Assembly Points
Addresses
Hydrants
N/A
Less than 500 gpm
500 to 1000 gpm
1001 to 1500 gpm
Greater than 1500 gpm
Streets
Town Limits
Parcels
Zoning
AG 10 - Agricultural (10 acre min)
AR 1 - Agricultural Residential (1 acre
min)
AR 1 PD - Agricultural Residential
Planned Development (1 acre min)
AR 3 - Agricultural Residential (3 acre
min)
CB - Central Business
CC - Community Commercial
CC PD - Community Commercial
Planned Development
CF - Community Facilities
CS - Community Service
IS - Industrial Services
MF - Multiple Family Residential
MF PD - Multiple Family Residential
Planned Development
NC - Neighborhod Commercial
RC - Resource Conservation
RR 1 - Rural Residential (1 acre min)
RR 1 PD - Rural Residential Planned
Development (1 acre min)
RR 1/2 - Rural Residential (1/2 acre
100 m
500 ft
Town of Paradise Interactive Viewer
Assembly Points
Addresses
Hydrants
N/A
Less than 500 gpm
500 to 1000 gpm
1001 to 1500 gpm
Greater than 1500 gpm
Streets
Town Limits
Parcels
Soils Survey
AIKEN
AIKEN VERY DEEP
AIKEN VERY DEEP 30-45%
BASALT FLOW WITH SOIL BETWEEN
COLUMNS OF ROCK
BOULDERY AIKEN
COMP. OF 2 UNNAMED SERIES WITH
SEAS. WATER TABLES
CUTS AND FILLS
FILLS
MARIPOSA
MODERATELY DEEP CLAY LOAM -
COHASSET COMPLEX
NA
POND
QUARRIES
ROCKLAND
SHALLOW CLAY LOAM - MOD. DEEP
CLAY LOAM COMPLEX
SHALLOW CLAY LOAM - TOOMES
COMPLEX
SHALLOW, VERY POORLY DRAINED
SOIL
SLOPE > 45%
100 m
500 ft
A
SIZE 8.47 ACRES » Parcel 084—1.71 acres
» Parcel 085—2.29 acres
» Parcel 105—3.67 acres
» Parcel 106—0.80 acres
PROS & CONS
PROS
» Compatible adjacencies
» Close to town center
CONS
» Requires purchasing all 4 parcels
ZONING
» Multiple Family Residential Zone
» Community Commercial Zone
SOIL
» Seasonal Wetness Issues
» Deep, Well Drained Soils
GRADING
1,779 - 1,864 FT Elevation; Maximum
Slope—30.9%; Average Slope—7.3%
OWNER
» Privately Owned
ESTIMATED COSTS
estimated cost $889,000
estimated cost/SF $2.41
085
084 105
104
266
Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: October 13, 2026
Agenda Item: 6(e)
ORIGINATED BY: Scott E. Huber, Town Attorney
REVIEWED BY: Marc Mattox, Assistant Town Manager
SUBJECT: Consider Introducing an Ordinance Amending Section
15.02.065 of the Paradise Municipal Code Regarding Building Code Complaint Procedures and Authorizing Extraordinary Life, Health, Safety, or Cumulative Project Impact
Determinations
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
No
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Consider waiving the entire first reading of Town Ordinance No. ___ and read by title only; and,
2. Introduce and conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. ___ “An Ordinance of the Town Council of the Town of Paradise Amending Section 15.02.065 of the Paradise Municipal Code to Revise the Building Code Complaint Procedure and Authorize Extraordinary Life, Health, Safety, or Cumulative Project Impact Determinations.” (ROLL CALL VOTE) Background:
Following the Camp Fire and the subsequent rebuilding effort, the Town has experienced a high volume of construction activity and building permit issuance. As part of the recovery, the Town implemented the Building Division Corrective Action Plan (CAP) to improve processes, strengthen accountability, and build public confidence in the permitting and inspection process.
In May 2026, the Town Council adopted Section 15.02.065 of the Paradise Municipal Code, establishing a formal process for the intake, independent review, determination, and appeal of qualifying Building Code complaints. The ordinance provides property owners with a structured means to raise potential Building Code violations while affording Permit Applicants notice, an opportunity to respond, and an appeal to the Town Council.
Since adoption, the CAP Ad Hoc Advisory Committee, Town staff, the Independent Reviewer, and Town Attorney have continued to evaluate the process and identify clarifications that would strengthen its administration, due-process protections, and enforcement tools. At its September 2026 meetings, the Town Council provided direction regarding circumstances in which substantiated violations may present an extraordinary life, health, safety, or cumulative projectwide impact. 267
Analysis:
The proposed ordinance updates Section 15.02.065 while retaining the existing CAP intake, independent review, notice, inspection, determination, appeal, and standard Strike procedures.
The revisions provide clearer definitions and additional procedural safeguards, while establishing a narrowly tailored enhanced enforcement consequence for extraordinary circumstances.
Key revisions include:
Adds definitions for “Subject Project” and “Extraordinary Project Impact Determination.” Clarifies that, under ordinary circumstances, no more than one Strike may arise from the same subject project.
Authorizes the Independent Reviewer to make an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination only where substantiated violations present an extraordinary life, health, or safety risk, or are cumulatively so serious or pervasive that they demonstrate an egregious failure to comply with the Building Code.
Requires the Independent Reviewer to identify the specific facts, Building Code sections, and reasoning supporting an extraordinary determination; a determination cannot be based solely on the number of violations.
Requires enhanced notice to the Permit Applicant when a potential extraordinary determination is under consideration, including an opportunity to submit information addressing that determination.
Provides that a final Extraordinary Project Impact Determination may result in two Strikes arising from one subject project. The determination remains subject to the same Town Council appeal process as the underlying Notice of Determination. Adds a litigation-related complaint provision: if the Town determines that a Building Code complaint concerns matters that are the subject of pending or reasonably anticipated civil litigation, the Town may defer processing the complaint under this Section upon consultation with the Town Attorney. The provision does not limit the Town’s authority to investigate and enforce an imminent Building Code, health, or safety violation under other applicable law.
Clarifies when notices are deemed received, the finality of the administrative appeal process, and that judicial review is not limited by the ordinance. Clarifies that work performed under a suspended permit is prohibited and constitutes an infraction, as provided by applicable law.
Updates the CEQA finding to include the common-sense exemption, in addition to the previously identified disaster-recovery and emergency exemptions.
The enhanced enforcement authority is intended to be used only in limited, well-documented circumstances. A Permit Applicant would not receive two Strikes unless the Independent Reviewer makes the required written finding, provides the prescribed notice and opportunity to respond, and the determination becomes final after appeal or expiration of the appeal period.
Financial Impact:
No direct financial impact is associated with introduction of the ordinance. Implementation costs will continue to depend on the volume and complexity of submitted complaints and the Independent Reviewer services required under the CAP.
268
TOWN OF PARADISE
ORDINANCE NO. ___
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN OF PARADISE ADOPTING NEW SECTION 15.02.065,
MAKING FINDINGS OF FACTS RELATING TO BUILDING CODE COMPLAINTS,
ESTABLISHING A PROCESS TO RESPOND TO BUILDING CODE COMPLAINTS, AND
AUTHORIZING EXTRAORDINARY LIFE, HEALTH, SAFETY OR CUMULATIVE PROJECT
IMPACT DETERMINATIONS
The Town Council of the Town of Paradise, State of California does hereby ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Findings. The Town Council finds and declares as follows:
a) Under Article XI, Section 7 of the California Constitution local agencies may make and enforce all local, police, sanitary and other ordinances within their jurisdiction, provided they do not conflict with general state laws; and
b) The Town Council of Paradise hereby finds that the public health, safety, and welfare of the Town of Paradise will be best protected and served by ensuring that all buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, and plumbing systems comply with the Paradise Municipal Code which adopted and incorporated several sections of the California Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24); and c) The Town Council of the Town of Paradise desires to set forth certain procedures to ensure the enforcement of the Building Code by creating a system to process, review and manage complaints alleging violations of the Building Code.
d) The Town Council further finds that certain Building Code violations may, because of their nature, severity, extent, or cumulative effect within an issued permit for one Assessor’s Parcel Number, present an extraordinary threat to the health, safety, or welfare of occupants or the public. In such limited circumstances, the Town Council finds it appropriate to authorize an enhanced enforcement consequence, subject to clear written findings, notice, and the appeal procedures established by this Ordinance.
SECTION 2. Section 15.02.065 is added to the Paradise Municipal Code as follows:
15.02.065 Building Code Complaint Procedure; Review and Determination by the Independent Reviewer.
A. Definitions
1. Building Code – The Paradise Municipal Code applicable to buildings and construction, including but not limited to Title 15 of the Paradise Municipal Code.
2. Permit Applicant (PA) – the individual or entity that applied for and was issued a permit for the construction of the building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system. In the event the Permit Applicant is an entity, the principals and signatory on the permit application shall be deemed to be Permit Applicants, as well as the entity. 269
3. Independent Reviewer – The Independent Reviewer shall be a third-party consultant retained by the Town responsible for the objective review of complaints, evidence, inspections, and issuance of Notices of Determination regarding Building Code compliance. The Independent Reviewer shall not have had a primary role in supporting or facilitating the course of construction of the subject project.
4. Strike – A Strike is a finding against a Permit Applicant that a Building Code complaint has been deemed founded following the issuance of a Notice of Determination and either: (a) an appeal by the Permit Applicant has been denied or has not resulted in the Notice of Determination being overturned; or (b) the Permit Applicant has failed to timely file an appeal, as outlined in this Section. A Strike shall be removed or inactivated only upon remediation of the Building Code violation, confirmed in writing by the Building Official as outlined in this Section.
Except as provided in Paragraph H.2 of this Section for an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination, no more than one Strike may arise from the same subject project.
5. Subject Project – The building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing system, or related work performed under the permit that is the subject of a Building Code complaint and Notice of Determination.
6. Extraordinary Project Impact Determination – A written finding by the Independent Reviewer that either:
a. One or more substantiated Building Code violations which create, or if not promptly corrected are reasonably likely to create, an extraordinary risk to life, health, or safety; or
b. The number, nature, extent, location, repetition, or interrelationship of substantiated Building Code violations within the Subject Project are cumulatively so serious or pervasive that they demonstrate an egregious failure to comply with the Building Code.
An Extraordinary Project Impact Determination shall not be based solely on the number of violations. The determination must identify the specific facts, Building Code sections, and reasoning supporting the finding.
B. Every building permit granted under this title or any section hereof is granted and accepted by all parties with the express understanding that the building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system must meet the requirements of the Building Code. Following issuance of the building permit, and for a period of 10 years thereafter, if a property owner suspects the PA did not adhere to the Building Code, a complaint shall be submitted through the Town’s Corrective Action Plan (CAP) Intake Form as the exclusive initial point of contact.
Complaints submitted outside of the CAP Intake process shall not be accepted. The complaint must include: the location of the building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system, the nature of the alleged violation, and efforts the property owner has undertaken to obtain relief from the PA prior to submitting the complaint. Town staff shall conduct an initial completeness and eligibility screening and refer qualifying complaints to the Independent Reviewer.
All complaints, reviews, and determinations shall be documented and tracked in accordance with the Town’s Building Division Corrective Action Plan (CAP). 270
C. The Independent Reviewer shall review all complaints submitted through the CAP Intake Form and determine whether the complaint references a potential violation of the Building Code.
Complaints that reference aesthetic issues or issues that do not relate to the requirements of the Building Code will not be considered. If the complaint alleges an issue that may violate the Building Code, the Independent Reviewer shall issue a Notice of Complaint (NOC) that will be sent to the PA by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by another method reasonably calculated to provide actual notice. The NOC must include the specific location of the building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system that is the subject of the complaint and the section of the Building Code, that has allegedly been violated. Within 10 business days of issuance of the NOC, the PA may respond with an explanation of how the requirements of the Building Code were met or with documentation refuting the allegations in the NOC.
If the Independent Reviewer preliminarily determines that the alleged violations may warrant an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination, the NOC shall clearly state that enhanced enforcement, including the potential issuance of two Strikes arising from a single Subject Project, is under consideration. The NOC shall identify the alleged facts and Building Code provisions supporting the preliminary determination and shall provide the PA an opportunity to submit information specifically addressing why an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination should not be made.
D. After receiving the PA’s response to the NOC, or if the PA fails to submit a timely reply to the NOC, the Independent Reviewer may contact the owner of the building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system to schedule an inspection. In the event an inspection is requested, the property owner and the PA shall have the right to have one representative present at the inspection.
E. Within 10 business days following the gathering of evidence as outlined in Paragraphs C and D of this Section, the Independent Reviewer shall review the evidence and issue a written Notice of Determination (NOD), which shall be sent by the Town Clerk to the property owner and PA by certified mail, return receipt requested, or by personal service. For purposes of computing appeal deadlines, the NOD shall be deemed received five calendar days after mailing.If the Independent Reviewer determines that the complaint has been unfounded, the complaint will be dismissed. If the Independent Reviewer confirms the existence of a Building Code violation, the NOD must include the specific location of the building, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing system that is the subject of the NOD and the section of the Building Code pertaining to the violation.
If the Independent Reviewer makes an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination, the NOD shall separately and clearly state that finding in writing. If the NOC did not allege that violations may warrant an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination, the Independent Reviewer must issue a supplemental notice to the PA identifying the factors that may support the more severe finding and providing the PA 10 business days to respond before issuing a final NOD that includes an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination. The NOD shall identify each substantiated Building Code violation supporting the determination; explain the extraordinary life, health, or safety risk or the cumulative and egregious project-wide impact; and state that, if the NOD becomes final under Paragraphs F and G of this Section, the PA will receive two Strikes arising from the Subject Project pursuant to Paragraph H.2. The NOD shall also advise the PA of the right to appeal both the underlying Building Code findings and the Extraordinary Project Impact Determination.
F. In the event that a PA disagrees with the NOD, the PA may appeal the determination by submitting a written appeal to the Town Council within 10 calendar days of receipt of the NOD. 271
The appeal shall be submitted to the Town Clerk. The appeal shall include evidence refuting the violation stated in the NOD and demonstrating that the requirements of the Building Code have been met. The Town Council shall review the appeal and all documents reviewed by the Independent Reviewer at a regular or special meeting, at which the property owner and the PA may appear and provide a statement to the Town Council. The statement by the property owner and PA shall not exceed 10 minutes each, unless additional time is needed to address questions by the Town Council.
G. The Town Council may, but is not required to, overturn the NOD issued by the Independent Reviewer by majority vote of the Council Members in attendance at the meeting. In the event that the NOD is overturned, the complaint shall be dismissed as unfounded. If the NOD is not overturned or if the PA fails to file a timely appeal to the NOD, the determination in the NOD is final for purposes of administrative review and there will be no further administrative opportunities for appeal. Nothing herein shall be construed to limit judicial review as otherwise provided by law.
H. Strikes and Enhanced Enforcement Consequence.
1. Following an appeal by the PA and a failure to overturn the NOD, or in the event that a PA fails to timely file an appeal of an NOD, the PA shall receive one Strike. The Strike shall remain active until the PA remediates the Building Code violation to the satisfaction of the Building Official, as defined in Section 2.12.054.
2. Notwithstanding Paragraph H.1, where an NOD includes an Extraordinary Project Impact Determination and that determination becomes final following the appeal process set forth in Paragraphs F and G, or following the PA’s failure to timely file an appeal, the PA shall receive two Strikes arising from the Subject Project. Both Strikes shall remain active until the violations supporting the Extraordinary Project Impact Determination have been remediated to the satisfaction of the Building Official.
3. A proposed Extraordinary Project Impact Determination in a NOC shall not suspend permits or deny new permit applications before the NOD becomes final under this Section.
The PA may appeal the Extraordinary Project Impact Determination on the same terms and within the same time period applicable to an appeal of the underlying NOD.
I. If a PA has two or more Strikes in effect that have not been removed or inactivated, all new permit applications for any buildings, structures, electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing systems shall be denied and all existing permits in the issued status to the PA will be suspended until all of the active Strikes on the PA’s record have been removed.
J. It shall be unlawful for any Permit Applicant, or any person, firm, or corporation with actual knowledge of the suspension, to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, demolish, occupy or maintain any real property, building, structure, or building service equipment that is the subject of a suspended permit, or cause or permit the same while the permit is suspended. A violation of this paragraph shall constitute an infraction, punishable as provided by applicable law.
K. Litigation-Related Complaints. At any point during the above-described process, if the Town determines that a Building Code complaint concerns matters that are the subject of pending or reasonably anticipated civil litigation, the Town may defer processing the complaint under this Section upon consultation with the Town Attorney. Nothing in this paragraph limits the Town’s authority to investigate and enforce an imminent Building Code, health, or safety violation under this or any other applicable law.
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SECTION 3. Severability. If any provision of this ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstances is for any reason held to be invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be deemed severable, and the invalidity thereof shall not affect the remaining provisions or other applications of the ordinance, which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application thereof.
SECTION 5. CEQA Exemption. Adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), as adoption of a Building Code complaint and enforcement procedure is not a project that may have a significant effect on the environment, and, to the extent applicable, pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21080(b)(3) regarding projects to maintain, repair, restore, or replace property or facilities damaged or destroyed as a result of a declared disaster and Section 21080(b)(4) regarding actions to mitigate or prevent an emergency, and CEQA Guidelines Section 15269(a) regarding maintaining, repairing, restoring, demolishing, or replacing property or facilities damaged or destroyed as a result of a disaster stricken area in which a state of emergency has been proclaimed by the Governor pursuant to the California Emergency Services Act, commencing with Section 8550 of the California Government Code.
SECTION 5. Publication. This ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after the date of its passage. Before the expiration of fifteen (15) days after its passage, this ordinance or a summary thereof shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation published and circulated within the Town of Paradise along with the names of the members of the Town Council of Paradise voting for and against same.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE Town Council of the Town of Paradise, County of Butte, State of California, on this 13th day of October, 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_______________________________
Steven Crowder, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Melanie Elvis, Town Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________
Scott E. Huber, Town Attorney
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Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: October 13, 2026
Agenda Item: 6(f)
ORIGINATED BY: Melanie Elvis, Town Clerk
REVIEWED BY: Jennifer Macarthy, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Consideration of Town Council Ad Hoc Committee and Standing Committee Structure and Transparency Options
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
No
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Consider the following actions related to Town Council Committees:
Option 1: Formalize the establishment of the Town Council Standing Committees and Ad Hoc Committees by taking the following actions including:
a. Formally designate Ad Hoc Committee members and Standing Committee members
b. Designate a Chair to each committee
c. Determine how items are placed on the agenda
d. Designate the date, time, and location for all Standing Committees e. Direct staff to develop minutes from the Standing Committee meetings f. Provide direction on preferred reporting methods, i.e. staff or Council reports, written or verbal.
g. Direct staff to stream Standing Committee meetings via the Town’s YouTube channel.
Option 2: Disband the Town Council Standing Committees, elevating every topic and discussion to the full Council level; and,
2. Formalize the committee formation workflow process by directing staff to use Exhibit C as Council’s Committee Formation Workflow template; OR
3. Provide alterative direction to staff.
Background:
The Town currently utilizes several committee types to provide focused discussion, community engagement, and policy input on matters of interest to the Town Council. While committees can be valuable tools for Council Members and the community, the Ralph M. Brown Act (Brown Act) establishes important distinctions between standing committees, ad hoc committees, and other advisory or stakeholder bodies.
Standing Committee Meetings:
A Standing Committee is a subsidiary body created by a legislative body that has ongoing, longterm oversight over a specific subject-matter and a fixed schedule set by formal action. Standing Committees cannot take final legislative action, rather they make recommendations to the full 274
Council on proposed action. A Town staff member may not be designated as a member or Chair of a Standing Committee, but Town staff may provide information, related staff reports, and take meeting minutes. When Standing Committees are formed, the Council takes the following actions:
1. Designates less than a quorum of the legislative body to the Committee,
2. If appropriate, designates public members to the Committee,
3. Designates the Chair of the Committee, and
4. Sets the date, time, and location of meetings.
Once formed, a Standing Committee must follow the Brown Act for public meetings including:
1. Publishing an agenda 72 hours prior to the meeting.
2. Having the Chair run the meetings (similar to Council meetings).
3. Allowing the public to speak after the Committee has discussed each agenda item prior to any action of the Committee.
4. Allowing a time for general public comment, during which time the Committee can take no action on the topics raised by the public.
Ad Hoc Committee Meetings:
An Ad Hoc committee is fundamentally different from a Standing Committee. A properly structured ad hoc committee generally consists solely of fewer than a quorum of the legislative body and is created for a specific, limited purpose. Per Exhibit D neither staff nor public members may not be designated members of an ad hoc committee. If public members sit on a committee, the structure must be changed to that of a Standing Committee. It does not have continuing subject-matter jurisdiction and does not have a fixed meeting schedule established as an ongoing committee.
The committee generally ceases to exist once its assigned task has been completed. For example, an ad hoc committee could be created to assist with negotiations concerning a particular issue, review a specific proposal, or perform a discrete task and then report its work to the full Council.
When ad hoc committees are formed, the Council takes the following actions:
1. Designates less than a quorum of the legislative body to the Committee,
2. Designates the Chair of the Committee.
Ad Hoc Committees are not open to the public, members of the public may not be designated committee members, and there is no public posting of the agendas.
Council Actions on Committees:
On May 12, 2026, after evaluating the structure of committees, the Council designated seven (7) Standing Committees and five (5) Ad Hoc Committees (Exhibit A) with the following workflow (Exhibit B). Note: Exhibit A has been modified to include columns that will need to be completed if Option 1 is selected. Besides the designation of Council members on the committees, there was no action of the Council to designate the members of the committees, the Chair of the committees, or the date/time/location for Standing Committees.
At the September 8, 2026, Town Council meeting, Council discussed committees and requested opportunities for better transparency and sharing of information related to the actions/discussions from the various committees. Council suggested such items as including minutes of the committee meetings in the Council monthly agenda, and streaming the meetings live so that community members could view the meetings.
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Analysis:
The various Ad Hoc and Standing Committees have developed over time, and therefore during the course of time, some of the Committees have evolved without appropriate formal designations by the Council. Therefore, in addition to considering opportunities for increased transparency as requested by the Council during the September meeting, the Council also needs to consider reestablishing existing committees to ensure that the committees are aligned with the requirements of the Brown Act.
Option 1: Formalize the establishment of the Town Council Standing Committees and Ad Hoc Committees by taking the following actions including:
a. Formally designate Ad Hoc Committee members and Standing Committee members: The full Council must formally designate members to each Standing or Ad Hoc Committee, with a majority approval required for the appointment of each member. Note: If members of the public are designated as committee members, the committee meeting must be modified to be a Standing Committee, be open to the public and properly noticed.
b. Assign a Chair: The Chair is responsible for presiding over committee meetings and maintaining proper meeting procedures. The Chair’s responsibilities include calling the meeting to order, determining whether a quorum is present, following the published agenda, recognizing members who wish to speak, putting questions to a vote, and adjourning the meeting.
c. Determine how items are placed on the agenda: Establish the process for placing items on a Standing Committee meeting agenda, including whether items may be placed on the agenda by a vote of the full Council, by action of the Committee, or by staff.
d. Designate the date, time, and location for all Standing Committees. e. Direct staff to develop minutes from the Standing Committee meetings. f. Provide direction on preferred reporting methods: 1. By verbal or written staff report or, 2. By a verbal or written report from by the Chair. g. Direct staff to stream Standing Committee meetings via the Town’s YouTube channel.
Exhibit A has been modified to include columns that will need to be completed if Option 1 is selected.
Option 2: Disband the Standing Committees
The second option would be to disband the standing committees and elevate these topics to the full Council level. This approach would ensure that the entire Council is aware of and included in every discussion and receives the same information and updates on each topic. It could also provide greater transparency and consistency in how these issues are discussed and considered.
Staff also recommends updating the Committee Formation Workflow, approved by the Town Council at its March 11, 2026 meeting (Exhibit B), to Exhibit C formalize the process for establishing the purpose, membership, meeting structure, duration, and appropriate committee type for any future committee.
Financial Impact:
None.
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Exhibit A
TOWN OF PARADISE
TOWN COUNCIL COMMITTEE INVENTORY
STANDING COMMITTEES
Committee Council
Representatives
Committee Members Chair Meeting Schedule
Date, Time,
Location
Reporting Structure
Council or Staff
Verbal or Written
TOP/PID Liaison
Committee
Bolin & Lassonde PID Board Members x 2
Council Members x 2
Date: Quarter
Months
Time: 11:00am
Location: Alternates
between Town Hall
and PID District
Office
TOP/PUSD Liaison
Committee
Bolin & Lange PUSD Board Members x 2
Council Members x 2
Date: 2nd Tuesday of
the Quarter
Time: 11:00am
Location: Alternates
between Town Hall
and Terry Ashe
TOP/PRPD Liaison
Committee
Crowder & Culleton PRPD Board Members x 2
Council Members x 2
Date: 4th Monday of
the Quarter
Time: 3:00pm
Location: Alternates
between Town Hall
and PUSD District
Office
Economic
Development
Crowder & Lange Town Manager
Recovery and Economic
Development Director
Monica Nolan – Paradise
Chamber
Mark Thorp – Paradise Chamber
Patty Hess – 3Core
277
Exhibit A
Tammy Waller – Paradise
Association of Realtors
Mark Northcross – NHA Advisors
Jared Kramer – Lofi Café
Sonny Ventimiglio – Tri Counties
Bank
Doug Speicher Jr. – Paradise
Realtor
Aubrey Pruis – Formerly of
Paradise Association of Realtors
Robert Bean – Resident,
Downtown Property Owner
James Yuhasz – local developer
and property Owner
Healthcare
Committee
Crowder &
Lassonde
Council Members x 2
Town Manager
Recovery & Economic
Development Director
Insurance
Advocacy
Bolin & Lange Town Manager
Recovery and Economic
Development Director
Aubrey Pruis – Formerly of
Paradise Association of Realtors
Seana O’Shaughnessy – CHIP
Andrew Waldrop – Resident,
former insurance adjuster
Heidi Eilick – Financial Advisor
and Paradise Chamber Board
Member
Sarah Wilson– Insurance Agent
Tammy Waller – Paradise
Association of Realtors
Lauren Duterra – Butte County
Fire Safe Council
278
Exhibit A
NRWS Franchise
Agreement
Bolin & Culleton NRWS General Manager
NRWS Controller
Town Manager
Community Development
Director
AD HOC COMMITTEES
Committee Council
Representatives
Committee Members Chair Reporting Structure
Council or Staff
Verbal or Written
Building Division
CAP Committee
Crowder & Lange Town Manager
Assistant Town Manager/Public Works
Director
Community Development Director –
Building, Code Enforcement & Fire
Prevention
Interwest (Independent Reviewer)
- Bill Hayes
- Bill Carter
Donna Vairo, Community Member
Dave Anderson, Contractor
James Frost, Contractor
Jarrod Holliday, Engineer
Facilities
Committee
Bolin & Culleton Council Members x 2
Assistant Town Manager/Public Works
Director
Capital Projects Manager
Senior Maintenance Worker
279
Exhibit A
Finance
Committee
Crowder & Culleton Town Manager
Assistant Town Manager
Finance Director
Mayor
Vice Mayor
Paradise Sewer
Project
Crowder & Lange Town Manager
Assistant Town Manager/Public Works
Director
Capital Projects Manager
Consultant Staff (HDR & Carollo)
Paradise Irrigation District
- Bob Mathews, Board Member
- Marc Sulik, Board Member
- Kevin Phillips, District Manager
- Blaine Allen, District Engineer
Central Valley Regional Water Quality
Control Board
- Clint Snyder
- Stacy Gotham
280
Exhibit B
1. Forum & Role
Is this topic best addressed by the full Town Council through direct staff reporting, or by a committee in an advisory role that returns recommendations or options to the full Council for direction?
2. Purpose & Scope
What is the clear and limited purpose statement for this committee? What matters fall within the committee’s scope, and what matters should remain with the full Council?
3. Administration and Documentation Responsibilities
Who serves as Chair or convenor?
Who prepares agendas?
Who prepares minutes and retains records?
What level of formal notice and documentation is expected?
4. Meeting Cadence
Regular schedule (monthly or quarterly), or
As-needed, tied to defined deliverables?
5. Reporting to the Full Council
Written updates, verbal reports, or scheduled agenda items? What issues should trigger return to the Council for direction?
6. Duration and Sunset
Completion of a defined task or milestone,
A fixed end date with possible reauthorization, or
Periodic formal Council review (e.g., annually or biennially) 281
Exhibit C
Committee Formation Workflow
1. Define the Committee's Purpose
Before forming the committee, identify:
a. What subject matter will the committee address?
b. What specific oversight, study, or assignment is contemplated? c. Is the work expected to continue on an ongoing basis, or is it tied to a particular issue, project, or objective?
2. Determine the Appropriate Committee Type
Use the chart below to determine the appropriate the committee type and requirements.
Establishment Assessment Standing Committee Ad Hoc Committee Define purpose/scope ✓ ✓
Less than a quorum of legislative body ✓ ✓
Designate public members, if appropriate ✓ —
Designate Chair ✓ ✓
Establish date, time, and location of meetings ✓ —
Ongoing, long-term subject-matter oversight ✓ —
Fixed meeting schedule ✓ —
Final legislative authority No No
3. Identify Committee Membership and Leadership
The Council then determines:
a. Which members of the legislative body will serve on the committee b. Whether public members and/or staff should be designated to participate c. Who will serve as Chair
d. Who will take the minutes
e. Who will be responsible for determining the agenda
282
Exhibit C
f. How will progress be reported to Council – written, verbal, staff, Council or scheduled agenda item updates.
4. Establish the Meeting Structure
If the committee is a Standing Committee:
The Council also establishes a fixed meeting schedule, including:
a. Date
b. Time
c. Location
*If the committee is Ad Hoc a fixed meeting schedule is not part of the committee's formation requirements. Meetings can instead be arranged as necessary to accomplish the committee's specific assignment.
5. Duration and Sunset
If the committee is an Ad Hoc Committee:
The Council should determine its duration and sunset date based on:
a. Completion of a defined task or milestone,
b. A fixed end date with possible reauthorization, or
c. Periodic formal Council review (e.g., annually or biennially) 283
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor and Town Council Members
Jennifer Macarthy, Town Manager
FROM: Scott E. Huber, Town Attorney
DATE: September 30, 2026
SUBJECT: Town Committees and Brown Act Compliance
The Town of Paradise (“Town”) has numerous standing committees, and ad hoc committees that may have similar or overlapping subject matter jurisdiction and membership.
Moreover, some of these entities have members of the public with varying degrees of personal and professional interest in varying capacities. As a result, there are opportunities for potential Brown Act violations to arise, in particular with the membership and timing of some of these committees. This memo anticipates some of the possible Brown Act concerns that may arise due to committee membership, make up, and subject matter jurisdiction.
Standing Committees
Government Code section 54952 states that a “legislative body” includes “the governing body of a local agency … a commission, committee, board, or other body of a local agency, whether permanent or temporary, decision-making or advisory, created by charter, ordinance, resolution, or formal action of a legislative body. However, advisory committees, composed solely of the members of the legislative body that are less than a quorum of the legislative body are not legislative bodies, except that standing committees of a legislative body, irrespective of their composition, which have [1] a continuing subject matter jurisdiction, or [2] a meeting schedule fixed by charter, ordinance, resolution, or formal action of a legislative body are legislative bodies for purposes of this chapter.” Courts have defined “formal action” by a legislative body to also include authorization given to the agency’s executive officer to appoint an advisory committee pursuant to agency-adopted policy.1 Standing committees comprised of less than a quorum of the legislative body are subject to the Brown Act’s noticing and meeting requirements. Thus, if a legislative body creates a longterm committee (existing for typically more than one year) on a single subject, that standing committee would be subject to the Brown Act. Additionally, the California Attorney General has opined that “function over form” is used to analyze whether a standing committee is a legislative
1 See Frazer v. Dixon Unified School District (1993) 18 Cal.App.4th 781, 793. 284
TOWN COMMITTEES AND BROWN ACT COMPLIANCE
September 30, 2026
body under the Brown Act.2In other words, a statement by the legislative body that an advisory committee “shall not exercise continuing subject matter jurisdiction” or the sole fact that a committee does not have a fixed meeting schedule because it meets on the calls of its chair or members is not determinative.3
The Brown Act defines a meeting as “any congregation of a majority of the members of a legislative body at the same time and location, including teleconference location as permitted by Section 54953, to hear, discuss, deliberate, or take any action on any item that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the legislative body.”
4 Temporary Advisory (“Ad Hoc”) Committee
Temporary advisory committees “composed solely of the members of the legislative body that are less than a quorum of the legislative body are not legislative bodies”, if they serve a limited or single purpose and will be dissolved once its limited or single purpose is completed.5 Such temporary advisory committees are commonly also called “ad hoc committees”, although this term not specifically utilized in the Brown Act. Examples of temporary advisory committees include “an advisory committee composed of less than a quorum created to interview candidates for a vacant position or to meet with representatives of other entities to exchange information on a matter of concern to the agency, such as traffic congestion”.6 To determine whether a subcommittee of a body falls into the category of a standing committee or an exempt temporary advisory committee, factors such as “how meeting schedules are determined, the scope of the committee’s charge, or whether the committee exists long enough to have ‘continuing jurisdiction’” must be analyzed.7 The League of California Cities’ Guide to the Ralph M. Brown Act notes that advisory groups for a single decision-maker are not covered, because the Brown Act applies only to committees created by formal action of the legislative body. For instance, a committee advising a school district superintendent would not be covered by the Brown Act. However, the same committee, if created by formal action of the school board, would be covered.8 As a result, the
2 79 Ops.Cal.Atty.Gen. 69 (1996).
3 Id.
4 California Government Code section 54952.2(a).
5 California Government Code section 54952(b); see also Freedom Newspapers, Inc. v.
Orange County Employees Retirement System Board of Directors (1993) 6 Cal.4th 821, 832. 6 Taxpayers for Livable Communities v. City of Malibu (2005) 126 Cal.App.4th 1123, 1129; see also Open & Public V: A Guide to the Ralph M. Brown Act, League of California Cities (Revised 2016), page 16.
7 See Open & Public V: A Guide to the Ralph M. Brown Act, League of California Cities (Revised 2016), page 13.
8 56 Ops.Cal.Atty.Gen. 14, 16-17 (1973).
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TOWN COMMITTEES AND BROWN ACT COMPLIANCE
September 30, 2026
Brown Act would not apply to an informal committee of five residents advising a member of a legislative body. Alternatively, if a city council directs the city manager, during a meeting, to form an advisory committee of residents to develop recommendations for a new ordinance, that committee would be subject to the Brown Act.9
Conclusion
As can be seen above, the legislature intended for most committees to be subject to the Brown Act unless the committee is limited in scope and duration. It can sometimes be difficult to determine whether a subcommittee of a body falls into the category of a standing committee or an exempt ad hoc committee. Whether a committee that is created falls into the category of standing or ad hoc committee, the answer largely depends on factors such as how meeting schedules are determined, the scope of the committee’s charge, or whether the committee exists long enough to have “continuing jurisdiction.” If an ad hoc committee over time and practice has become a standing committee (i.e., ongoing jurisdiction over a subject matter rather than a limited task, a set meeting schedule established by the Commission, task is never “completed” but transforms into ongoing action), it then becomes subject to the Brown Act notice and other meeting related requirements.
9 See Open & Public V: A Guide to the Ralph M. Brown Act, League of California Cities (Revised 2016), page 14.
286
Town of Paradise
Council Agenda Summary
Date: October 13, 2026
Agenda Item: 7(b)
ORIGINATED BY: Town Council
REVIEWED BY: Jennifer Macarthy, Town Manager
SUBJECT: Town Council Committee Reports
LONG TERM
RECOVERY PLAN:
No
COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED:
1. Council Members’ written reports on standing, external and ad hoc committee representation.
Background:
During the May 12, 2026, Council meeting, the Council approved changing Council reports on committee representation from verbal reports to written reports. The Councilmembers submitted the following reports for September 2026.
Standing Committee Reports
Economic Development Committee:
Mayor Crowder: Sept 10 Economic Development meeting setting up business walks Insurance Advocacy Committee:
Council Member Lange: Progress on the video ETA end of 2026, recap community resilience tour, pursue meeting with Verisk and Madronis
Ad Hoc Committee Reports
Paradise Sewer Project
Mayor Crowder: Afternoon Sewer meeting still working on identifying sites and EIR is making progress
Council Member Lange: Update on Collection System and WWTF, EIR and funding Status.
Requested an informal town hall style meeting to update the public and answer questions. 287
External Committee Reports
Butte County Air Quality Management District
Council Member Lassonde:
Subjects covered were:
Meeting Minutes of the Butte County Association of Governments Board of Directors August 27, 2026
Denial of Application for Leave to Present a Late Claim to BCAG Chico and Oroville Concept Maps Presentation, Jarret Walker and Associates FY 2024/25 Title VI Program - Annual Review
Butte Regional Transit Paradise Routing and Ridership Butte Regional Transit (B-Line) FY 25/26 Fourth Quarter Report Approval of Resolution 2026-27-01 2027 Federal Transportation Agenda Packet: https://www.bcag.org/#docaccess-c98c347b7b51d5f8e2f2073552cca5ee Butte County Association of Governments
Council Member Lassonde:
Subjects covered were:
1. Approved the following on Consent:
Minutes of August 27, 2026 Meeting of the Board of Directors. Activity Report on Butte County Air Quality Management District Activities. Financial Status Report for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
Status Report on Calendar of Events.
Status Report on Communications.
2. Received and accepted the CalPERS Annual Valuation reports ending June 30, 2025, and the CalPERS CEPPT Trust Account Summary report as of June 30, 2025.
3. Received staff report and opened the Public Hearing for proposed amendments to Rule 509 – Subject Research Fees and Hourly Rate and the Resolution of Adoption. Following the Public Hearing, accepted comments and approved the proposed amendments to Rule 509 - Subject Research Fees and Hourly Rate and the Resolution of Adoption.
4. Approved the proposed FY 2026-2027 budget transfers and amendments.
5. Received presentation and receipt of the 2026 SDRMA Excellence in Safety Award.
6. Received the APCO report.
Agenda Packet: https://www.bcaqmd.org/2026-09-24-air-quality-governing-boardmeeting#docaccess-89b52e4257bdd330adbfb8e60c911505 Additional Community Activities:
Mayor Crowder:
Sept 11th Builders from Chico luncheon to share what we have to offer and what they need overall are very positive comments on our building department. Sept 12th Cypress Senior Housing groundbreaking
288
Sept 17th Left for Santa Rosa for a morning press conference Sept 18th AB2700 with Congressman Gallagher ABC San Francisco and Fox Sacramento covered it, I was interviewed by both.
October 1st Spent the day touring Paradise with a large group of insurance people from Travelers and Mercury, a lot of positive responses and great information shared and hopefully more insurance will be available here
October 3&4 Worked the Town Booth at Johnny Appleseed Days, busy event both days lot of interest in moving to Paradise, gave out 16 in home siren units Attended the new officer sewer in and presentation of a $18k check to Sheris Alvies by the Moose Lodge
Still many phone calls with citizens working through issues, in person meetings with several citizens.
Important to everyone AB 2700 was signed into law by the Governor, it now heads to the CPUC in January 2027 for review such as funding options, no rate payers funds to be used, hopefully no attorney fees and a answer that yes the fire victims should be compensated and how much should it be.
Council Member Lange:
Planning Elks Community Haunted House
Planning Christmas Preview
Tool Lending Library grand opening and Hammerschlagen contest Magalia Fall Festival
Council Member Lassonde:
On Vacation from September 11 to September 21
September 22 – Attended BCAG meeting, BCAQMD meeting, Explore Butte County Board Meeting, Attended Paradise Tool Lending Library Ribbon Cutting September 30 - Attended Ridge Republican Women Candidate Forum October 3 & 4 – Worked in the Town Booth at Johnny Appleseed Day October 5 – Attended Officer Distefano Swearing In
October 6 – Chamber of Commerce Candidate Interview
289