PHOTO: DCBA / JON YUNKER Chico by the Numbers choose chico

City population: 92,464. Four-county labor force: 170,280. University: 1. Community college: 1. Enrolled in higher eduction: 29,445. Adults with bachelor’s degree or higher: 33%. Median household income $42,342. Industrial property sales cost: $43-$84 SF/yr. Mid-level housing: $275,000 to $385,000. Manufacturers: 159. Business and professional services: 895 companies. Details inside...

CHOOSE CHICO CHRIS CONSTANTIN, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER, 530.896.7200, [email protected]

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DEMOGRAPHIC HIGHER EDUCATION 56 Tax & License Requirements – City OVERVIEW of Chico 28 Education, Culture and Vitality 57 State Tax Credits 1 California’s Best College Town 29 Universities & Colleges within 90 2 Population Growth miles of Chico 2 Age Distribution 29 Educational Excellence LIVING IN CHICO 2 Racial and Ethnic Composition 30 Chico State 59 A Place to Thrive 2 Income 31 Chico State Enrollment in Tech 59 Cost of Living Fields 60 Housing BUSINESS OVERVIEW 33 Butte College 61 Housing Price Range 35 Columbia College 61 Rental Costs 3 Dynamic Business Sectors 35 Cal Northern School of Law 62 Housing Choices 4 Business Sectors 63 K-12 Education 6 Notable Employers – Food and BUSINESS RESOURCES 63 Elementary Schools and Test Beverage Scores 7 Notable Employers – Advanced 36 Service and a Smile 64 Junior High and High School Test Manufacturing 37 Hiring & Training Scores 9 Notable Employers – Consumer 38 Business Assistance 66 Health Care Products 38 Entrepreneurs and Innovation 67 Public Safety 11 Notable Employers – Technology 39 Financing 67 Average Rainfall and 13 Medical & Health Care 41 Business & Industry Groups Temperatures 43 Conference Facilities 67 Crime Rate per 100,000 People DEVELOPMENT 67 Climate OPPORTUNITIES UTILITIES 68 Things to Do 76 Photo Credits 15 Competitive Costs in an 45 Sustainability Comes Naturally Advantageous Location 45 Electricity and Natural Gas 15 Sales Price (Cost/SF) 47 Water & Sewer PHOTO CREDITS 15 Leasing Costs (Cost/SF NNN) 47 Solid Waste 16 Opportunity Areas 48 Telecom Providers 17 Best Fits for Your Business 21 Non-Residential Permits Issued in TRANSPORTATION Chico 21 Residential Permits Issued in Chico 49 Accessible Hub for Commerce 21 Permitting Process 50 Transportation Map 51 Air Service MAPS WORKFORCE 52 Rail Service 52 Public Transport ii Location Map 22 Educated, Productive Workforce 53 Nearest Seaports 16 Opportunity Areas 23 Commuting 22 Laborshed 23 Labor Force and Unemployment GOVERNMENT 40 Recycling Market 23 Educational Attainment Development Zone 24 Wages by Selected Occupations 55 Where People Know Your Name 50 Transportation 27 Employment Taxes & Mandated 56 Tax Profile – State of California Benefits OREGON

Chico is the cultural and commercial center between Sacramento and the Oregon border, and the most populous city within an 80-mile radius. The city sits on the valley floor,

nestled against the foothills of NE the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Elevation: 205 ft. VA Redding DA

Red Blu

Los Molinos Corning Hamilton City Chico Orland Paradise

Willows Oroville Reno Biggs (169 mi) Gridley Live Oak

Yuba City Marysville

Sacramento (87 miles)

Oakland San Francisco (171 miles) (176 miles)

San Jose Find more maps in the Workforce (206 miles) and Transportation sections.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS ii WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Demographic Overview

California’s Best College Town ESSENTIAL CHICO

What makes Chico, Chico? If you ask around, ­Bidwell Park, BIDWELL MANSION Chico State, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., almonds, and Pioneer, gold miner, agricultur- Aaron Rodgers will probably come out near the top. Yes, alist, Prohibitionist candidate for president, and Chico’s first Green Bay quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. He grew up here, entrepreneur — John Bidwell and we wear our #12 jerseys proudly. built his home across the creek from the city he founded. That’s something important to know about Chico. When you make good, your fellow citizens will brag about you like BIDWELL PARK you’re a member of the family. We tote our Chico Bags to 3,670 Acres! You can quibble over it being the third or fourth the grocery store, we sip from our Klean Kanteens, and we largest municipal park, or you display Orient & Flume art glass in our homes because we’re can just marvel at its beauty. Our park doubled as “Sher- proud of all things Chico. wood Forest” in the 1939 film, Robin Hood. Taken together, you can draw these conclusions: Chico’s residents are educated, active, outdoorsy, enthusiastic, loyal, CHICO STATE and entrepreneurial. The city gets a little busier in late August when over 17,000 students arrive. California State University, Chico contributes an element of art and culture to the community, as well as an educated workforce. DEMOGRAPHIC OVERVIEW SIERRA NEVADA Population, City Limits (2016): 92,464 BREWING CO. Chico MSA, Butte County (2016): 224,601 We loved our local beer right from the beginning. It turned Average Household Size (2015): 2.45 out a lot of non-locals loved Median Age (2015): 29.7 it too. Now Sierra Nevada is one of the largest craft brew Owner–Occupied Homes (2015): 34,791 producers in the country. Total Housing Units (2015): 39,064 ALMONDS Source: California Department of Finance, Demographic Research Unit, Table E-1 City & We’re proud of the way County Population Estimates 2015-2016; US Census Bureau, ACS, Table DP04 Selected Housing Characteristics, S0101 Sex & Age, 2015 data; April 2017 (Avg. Household Size, we ­(mis)pronounce it — Median Age; Owner-Occupied Housing, Total Housing Units). “ammind” — and being sur- rounded by so many orchards, that is our prerogative.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 1 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM DEMOGRAPHIC OVERVIEW

POPULATION GROWTH AGE DISTRIBUTION Chico Annual Growth Rate Median age: 29.7 2000-2016: 3.4% Population 19-54 years old: 47, 219 (53%) 2016-2025: 1.2% Chico

State 267,799 U.S. 224,601 0% 25% 50% 75% 100% 203,446

0-18 years 19-24 years 25-34 years CHICO MSA 35-54 years 55-74 years 75+ years

Source: Age Distribution (2015) US Census Bureau, ACS, Table B01001 Sex by Age and Table S0101, 2015 data; April 2017. 102,658 92,464

59,954 CHICO RACIAL AND ETHNIC COMPOSITION

<1% <1% <1% 1% 1% 1% 2000 2016 2025* 5% 5% 6% 12% City of Chico Chico MSA** 14% 12% 29% 5% Source: California Department of Finance, Demographic 10% Research Unit, E-4 Historical Population Estimates for 54% Cities, Counties, and the State: 2000-2010 and 2010- 17% 62% 23% 2016; Butte County Association of Governments, Butte County Long-Term Regional Growth Forecast 2014-2040, 18% 2025 estimate; April 2017. * Projected **Butte County. 40%

Chico California U.S. White Hispanic or Latino Multi-race / Other Asian Black or African American American Indian or Alaska Native KEY Pacific Islander ! TAKEAWAY Source: Racial and Ethnic Composition (2015) Nielsen, June 2015.

As the largest population center within 80 miles, INCOME Chico is a magnet for Per Capita: $24,205 Avg. Household: $58,970 business activity. That Median Household: $42,342 activity extends beyond the 224,000 people $100,000 living in Butte County and $75,000 draws from at least four $50,000 surrounding counties. The $25,000 Chico State influence is $0 evident in our median age, Per Capita (2015) Avg. Household (2015) Median Household (2015) which is 6 years younger than the state as a whole. Chico California U.S.

Source: Income (2015) US Census Bureau, ACS 2015 data; Table DP03 Selected Economic Characteristics, April 2017.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 2 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Business Overview

Dynamic Business Sectors KEY While Chico is best known as the home of Chico State and the Sierra ! TAKEAWAY Nevada Brewery, it is also home to a growing number of innovative industries from food processing to information technology. Chico’s Notable Industries: university culture and natural setting attract creative individuals to an Food & Beverage environment where you can live and work while enjoying unparalleled Agriculture access to outdoor recreation. A number of our companies were borne Technology out of their founders’ love for the outdoors, art, or a regional agricultural Consumer Products product — Klean Kanteen, Orient & Flume art glass, and Maisie Jane’s Manufacturing nut products, for example — and others started with Chico State students who chose to remain in the area after graduation.

Business Spotlight

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING CO. WWW.SIERRANEVADA.COM

IN CHICO: Since 1980 PRODUCT: Craft beer (in the top 3) FUN FACT: Sierra Nevada offers employees an on-site daycare and on-site clinic. CHICO EXPERIENCE: “I landed in Chico after a post-graduation bicycle tour. I spent my first years running a bike shop and then opened my own homebrew shop. There came a time when I knew I’d never be satisfied if I didn’t open my own brewery and see if it could be successful.” Read a profile of Sierra Nevada and Ken Grossman Ken Grossman, Founder & CEO at choosechico.com.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 3 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

CHICO’S BUSINESS SECTORS BUSINESS MIX Total Establishments, all Industries: 6,521

INDUSTRIES NUMBER OF ESTABLISHMENTS Food & Beverage Agriculture Ag, Forestry, Fishing Technology Consumer Products Nat. Rsrc & Mining Manufacturing Construction Manufacturing Wholesale Retail Transport., Comm., Util. Fin., Ins., RE Business and Prof. REGIONAL HUB Educ. and Health Care Arts, Ent., Rec., Other Medical & Health Care Gov. & Nonprofit Shopping Education 0 500 1,000 1,500 Culture

NUMBER EMPLOYED

Ag, Forestry, Fishing Nat. Rsrc & Mining Construction Manufacturing TOURISM Wholesale Retail Recreation Transport., Comm., Util. Cycling Running Fin., Ins., RE Racing Business and Prof. Arts Educ. and Health Care Arts, Ent., Rec., Other Gov. & Nonprofit

0 4,000 8,000 12,000 16,000

Source: Nielsen 2015 data, June 2016, (1) Includes Non–classified Establishments

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 4 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Read a profile of Fifth Sun and Dan Gonzales at choosechico.com. Business Spotlight

FIFTH SUN WWW.FIFTHSUN.COM

CHICO EXPERIENCE: Fifth Sun is one of the top IN CHICO: Since 1994 licensed apparel companies in the country. Operat- PRODUCT: Licensed apparel (ecommerce & B2B) ing away from similar companies has something to FUN FACT: Dan has been compared to the eccentric do with that, says founder, Dan Gonzales. He thinks and creative Willy Wonka in the way he has built there’s a Chico mentality that imprints on employ- Fifth Sun. He once donned the purple suit and top ees. “In LA it’s hard to taste the community. Here hat and portrayed Gene Wilder’s character, Willy you know who your neighbor is. I think we have lots Wonka, complete with summersault on the runway of talent here. A ton of talent.” of a company fashion event!

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 5 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

NOTABLE EMPLOYERS – FOOD AND BEVERAGE

COMPANY ESTAB. DESCRIPTION

Chico Chai 2004 Chai tea and related products; wholesale distribution in Northern California

Chico Nut Company 1988 Grow, process, harvest almonds, walnuts and related products; sold worldwide

Quality brown rice and brown rice products, using organic and sustainable farming Lundberg Family Farms 1937 techniques

Maisie Jane’s 1993 Natural and flavored nuts and nut products

Mooney Farms 1987 Bella Sun Luci brand sun-dried tomatoes and related product lines

Sierra Nevada Brewery 1980 Brewery and brewpub – international pioneer in craft brewing industry

Shubert’s Ice Cream and Candy 1938 Ice cream and candy products

Smucker’s Quality Beverages 1961 Natural and organic fruit beverages

Source: Chico Chamber of Commerce Directory; GrowManufacturing.com; Google search; local telephone book; and respective websites, June 2015 and March 2017.

Business Spotlight MOONEY FARMS WWW.BELLASUNLUCI.COM IN CHICO: Since 1994 CHICO EXPERIENCE: “Built on a foundation of family values, quality, PRODUCT: Mooney Farms, home and integrity, three generations of our family work at Mooney of the Bella Sun Luci Brand of Sun Farms. We have a history of using premium ingredients to create healthy Mediterranean inspired products for today’s consumer. Dried Tomatoes Come visit our Tuscan gift store located inside the Chico Airport.” FUN FACT: Bella Sun Luci means Mary Mooney, President “beautiful sunlight” in Italian.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 6 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

NOTABLE EMPLOYERS – ADVANCED MANUFACTURING

COMPANY ESTAB. DESCRIPTION

Lead-free ROHS compliant PCB assembly services and custom cable assembly, C SYS Labs, Inc. 1987 including military circular connectors, ethernet, BNC and DB styles of connectors, and high quality SnPb solder solutions

Solar pool heating systems in the U.S. & leading provider of IceStor thermal energy FAFCO 1969 storage systems

Fanno Saw Works 1940 Pruning saws and accessories

Agriculture equipment – product line includes portable belt conveyors, tree shakers, Gruber Manufacturing 2014 drying trailers, bucket elevators, etc.

High performance electrical and electronic cable assemblies, custom cable Joy Signal 1987 assemblies, connectors, custom connectors, and related interconnection products; primary focus on the Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) market

Lares Research 1956 Dental handpieces and dental lasers used by dentists worldwide

Provides portraits of millions of preschool, elementary, and junior and senior high Lifetouch National School 1936 school students each year. Also, senior portraits, individual athlete and sports team Studios, Chico Lab portraits, and portraits of other school organizations and special events

Research and development in areas including: microchannel reactor technology, Makel Engineering 1995 space In–situ resources utilization (ISRU), advanced chemical sensors, smart fire detection system, exhaust monitoring systems, and clean power generation

Plastics fabricator specializing in the production of welded-polypropylene filtration MTECH 2001 systems and washout booths

Upfitter and QVM Partner with Ford Motor Co.; NCV upfits the Ford E-Van and Nor-Cal Vans 2003 transit connect for handicap use

PBM Supply & Manufacturing 1960s High quality agricultural and industrial spraying equipment, trailers and supplies

Pro2Pro Machining Services 2008 State of the art CNC machine shop

Rescue 42 1995 Design and manufacture of fire and rescue equipment

Solutions Cubed 1994 Electronic design services and products

Automated biodiesel processing equipment and ASTM-Grade Biodiesel for sale via Springboard Biodiesel 2008 local fueling site

Thomas Manufacturing 1970 Welding, machine and fabrication Company

Full service fuel system manufacturer for van conversions, body builders and OEM Transfer Flow 1983 manufacturers

continues

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 7 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Business Spotlight

SQUARE DEAL MATTRESS & UPHOLSTERY IN CHICO: Since 1920 WWW.SQUAREDEALMATTRESS.COM PRODUCT: Factory direct mat- tress retailer & manufacturer and CHICO EXPERIENCE: Square Deal Mattress Factory has been successful furniture upholstery for almost 10 decades due to a community that strongly seeks to support local businesses. Richard Lash, 3rd Generation, CEO, says, “I remember FUN FACT: For three decades being about four or five sitting on a stool next to my Grandmother as she Square Deal Mattress Factory sewed the mattress covers at the Square Deal Market next to the factory. was located on the main drag Neighborhood kids would come and buy Penny candies or sandwiches. through Chico until the late It is for the love of Northern California that we have remained in Chico 1950s when Freeway 99 was and opened stores in surrounding cities.” built and traffic was redirected.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 8 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

NOTABLE EMPLOYERS – ADVANCED MANUFACTURING, CONTINUED

COMPANY ESTAB. DESCRIPTION

Thermal solutions using a spectrum of technologies for a diverse range of United States Thermoelectric 1997 electrical and mechanical architectures, from power lasers and radar systems to Company (USTC) environmental chambers and microchips to computer, server and rack cooling

Weiss McNair 1966 Nut harvesting equipment

Wrex Products, Inc. 1960s Die-casting and plastic injection molding

Source: Chico Chamber of Commerce Directory; GrowManufacturing.com; Google search; local telephone book; and respective websites, June 2015, March & June 2017.

Sel-Tech is an aerospace manufacturer Weiss McNair produces nut harvesting equipment

NOTABLE EMPLOYERS – CONSUMER PRODUCTS

COMPANY ESTAB. DESCRIPTION

Online destination for specialty shops and boutiques. As an invite-only marketplace, 11 Main connects shoppers with a hand-selected collection of shops 11 Main 2013 and boutiques (fashion & style, home & outdoor, jewelry & watches, baby & kids, collecting & art, tech & gadgets, sporting goods & fitness, crafts, hobbies & toys, and entertainment)

AVL Looms 1977 Global manufacturer and marketer of looms, software and weaving accessories

Compact, reusable shopping bags, travel packs, and lifestyle totes that are ChicoBag 2004 fashionable, environmentally friendly

Fifth Sun Graphic 1994 Graphic design and distribution company of licensed and private apparel

Manufacturer of reusable, food-grade, environment-friendly stainless steel Klean Kanteen 2002 “kanteens”

Lulu’s 1996 Online shopping boutique – clothing, shoes and accessories

MAP Bicycles 2003 Custom bicycle manufacturer

Oak Ridge Cabinets 1983 Handcrafted custom cabinetry

Square Deal Mattress 1920 Mattresses, custom furniture and upholstery

Source: Chico Chamber of Commerce Directory; GrowManufacturing.com; Google search; local telephone book; and respective websites, June 2015, March & June 2017.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 9 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Read about Milestone and founder Prem Chand’s North Valley roots at choosechico.com. Business Spotlight

MILESTONE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. IN CHICO: Since 2013 (contact WWW.MILESTONEPOWERED.COM center); founded 1997 (HQ in Fremont, CA) CHICO EXPERIENCE: “The Mayor’s office, Chico State, Butte College, SERVICE: Managed service and Alliance for Workforce Development all pulled together so provider for well-known tech that in 24 business days, we had 200 people, a building, fiber companies connections, and were ready to go. To give you an idea of what a feat that is, setting up fiber connections usually takes anywhere FUN FACT: Prem Chand between 90 to 120 days. We got it in two weeks.” grew up on a walnut farm Prem Chand, President and CEO in Hamilton City, 10 miles from Chico.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 10 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

NOTABLE EMPLOYERS – TECHNOLOGY

COMPANY ESTAB. DESCRIPTION

Uses light technology in the harvesting of walnuts and other applications under Advanced Light Technologies 2000 research

Online Channel Management (OCM) solutions to give small merchants the Auctiva 1998 power of large corporations by helping them build their brands, merchandise their products, and sell efficiently through eBay

Online network of home improvement stores providing supplies including faucets & Build.com 2000 plumbing fixtures, lighting, door hardware, and heating/venting equipment

Broadband internet and one of the largest wireless broadband networks in DigitalPath 2005 California, offering voice and data plans with higher speeds

Developer/manufacturer of medical management information software products EXL Landa (formerly Landacorp) 1980 and services

IT Managed Services and IT Professional Services solutions provider with the Milestone Powered Technologies 2012 ability to fully design, integrate, and optimize data center infrastructure

Uses light technology in addressing bacterial infections that cannot be cured by Patholase 2004 antibiotics

Retail-focused mobile media company engaging 160 million U.S. consumers via their shopping apps, mobile and regional networks; owns and operates Wanderful Media 2011 Find&Save, CoffeeTable, the Wanderful Mobile Network and the Wanderful Regional Network

Source: Chico Chamber of Commerce Directory; GrowManufacturing.com; Google search; local telephone book; and respective websites, June 2015, March & June 2017.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 11 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

11 MAIN WWW.11MAIN.COM

In 1998 Auctiva was founded in Chico by Jeff Schlicht to help expedite ESTAB.: 2013 (orig. 1998) the eBay listing process. Then, in 2013, Auctiva rebranded as 11 Main TURNOVER RATE: 15% and shifted from software development for expedited eBay listing process AVG EMPL. TENURE: 5 years to an invitation-only marketplace. Headquartered in San Mateo, with a PRODUCTIVITY RATING:* 5 satellite office in Chico, 11 Main, Inc. is an Alibaba Group Company.

EXL EXLSERVICE.COM

For more than 30 years, EXL, formally Landacorp, has been solving ESTAB.: 1980 the complex problems faced by health plans and hospital delivery TURNOVER RATE: 9% systems. As health plans, providers and members drive toward bet- AVG EMPL. TENURE: 9 years ter sharing of information, EXL provides the tools and services to exe- PRODUCTIVITY RATING:* 4 cute a clear vision of collaborative health and care management.

WANDERFUL WWW.WANDERFUL.COM

Wanderful Media is a Silicon Valley company reinventing local discovery ESTAB.: 2011 shopping. The company owns and operates Find&Save, a comprehensive TURNOVER RATE: n/a collection of local sales available on FindnSave.com and on newspaper AVG EMPL. TENURE: 3 years sites across the country. Wanderful Media is headquartered in Los Gatos, PRODUCTIVITY RATING:* 5 and has a development and operations office in downtown Chico.

More: See Milestone Technologies on pg. 10 and Build.com on pg. 61 *Rating: scale of 1-5 with 5 best Spotlight on Chico Tech

CHICOSTART WWW.CHICOSTART.COM

For proof of Chico’s commitment to the developing tech industry, go to the CONTACT: Chico Municipal Building, where Chicostart is housed. Chicostart is an Wendy Porter independent, nonprofit tech startup incubator. Shared resources create (530) 924-5089 opportunities for like-minded entrepreneurs to develop ideas and prod- [email protected] ucts with the support of mentors and benchmarked milestones.

FACILITIES: Mail Service SERVICES: Desks Stocked Kitchen Mentoring Couches Color Printer / Entrepreneurial Events Find out what new WiFi Scanner Access to Investors companies are hatching in Conference Rooms Chico at chicostart.com.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 12 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

MEDICAL & HEALTH CARE

COMPANY ESTAB. DESCRIPTION

298-bed nonprofit hospital dedicated to improving quality of life through patient- centered care. It is one of two Level II trauma centers north of Sacramento, houses Enloe Medical Center 1937 the region’s only Level II neonatal intensive care unit and operates the FlightCare air ambulance service

Ampla Health Chico 1964 Outpatient services, minor emergency and routine medical care

Chico Immediate Care 1984 Outpatient services, minor emergency and routine medical care

Enloe Prompt Care – California 1994 Outpatient services; California Park facility also has X-ray and Pharmacy services Park & Cohasset Road 1998

Outpatient services, comprehensive medical, behavioral, dental and community Northern Valley Indian Health 1971 health

Shalom Free Clinic 2007 Outpatient services

Skypark Walk-In Medical Center 1994 Outpatient services

Women’s Resource Clinic 1997 Outpatient services, women’s health

Source: Chico Chamber of Commerce Directory; GrowManufacturing.com; Google search; local telephone book; and respective websites, June 2015, March & June 2017.

Photo courtesy of Hosmer-Dorrance, a Fillauer Company.

Founder, Jerry Leavy, prepares for takeoff. Read a profile of Cascade Orthopedic Supply at choosechico.com. Business Spotlight

CASCADE ORTHOPEDIC SUPPLY, INC. IN CHICO: Since 1999 (founded 1974) CASCADE-USA.COM PRODUCT: Orthotics and CHICO EXPERIENCE: “Chico is focused on supporting local busi- Prosthetics distributor nesses and driving revenue into the local economy. The Farmer’s Market, Taste of Chico, and other local events capture the essence FUN FACT: Founder, Jerry Leavy, of the people who make this community so unique.” is an upper extremity amputee Jeff Collins, CPA, President and was an avid pilot.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 13 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS OVERVIEW

Business Spotlight K•COE ISOM WWW.KCOE.COM IN CHICO: Since 1962 CHICO EXPERIENCE: Chico was a sleepier community of (originally Matson & Isom) 15,000 when Robert Matson and Howard Isom founded their two-person accountancy firm in the 1960s. As Chico grew, their SERVICE: Agricultural company grew even faster, expanding to several cities and adding consulting and CPAs specialties such as agriculture and technology. In 2015 the firm FUN FACT: K·Coe Isom merged with mid-west based Kennedy and Coe, rebranding as represents the owners of K·Coe Isom—becoming a multi-state operation with 19 offices, approximately 1 out of every and ranking among the top 100 CPA firms nationwide. 5 beef cows in the U.S.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 14 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Development Opportunities

Competitive Costs in an Advantageous Location KEY ! TAKEAWAY Lower operating costs are a major draw for businesses locating satellite operations, headquarters, or retail stores in Chico, and development Real estate costs are half costs are a significant factor in those cost savings. Retail development to one-third of Bay Area prices for industrial and has been noticeably visible in the last year, and recent industry expan- commercial interests. sions include Klean Kanteen and The Printed Image.

A business confidence survey and economic snapshot from late 2016 found a majority of Chico businesses confident that their sales, profits, CITY OF CHICO and local business conditions would improve during 2017. Sales tax City Manager’s Office (530) 896-7200 revenue increased by 7.6% over a one-year period, and housing prices For information and referrals related to were just shy of their pre-recession high. your development project.

(Source: Golden Valley Bank, April 2017; quarterly updates available at www.goldenvalley.bank.)

SALES PRICE (COST/SF)

CHICO SAN JOSE SUNNYVALE INDUSTRIAL BLDG $43-$84 $234 $399

CLASS A OFFICE $197-$250 $399 $438

RETAIL BLDG $113 $338 N/A

Source: Showcase.com; Loopnet; Guillon Brouhard Commercial Real Estate (Chico office and industrial), April 2017.

LEASING COSTS (COST/SF NNN)

CHICO SAN JOSE SUNNYVALE INDUSTRIAL BLDG $5.93 $12.60 $23.10

CLASS A OFFICE $16.20 $27.00 $30.00

RETAIL BLDG $14.10 $23.64 $38.40

Source: Showcase.com; Loopnet; Guillon Brouhard Commercial Real Estate (Chico office and industrial), April 2017.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 15 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

OPPORTUNITY AREAS

Chico has distinct economic centers and opportunity identified below are where businesses tend to cluster. areas to accommodate industrial and commercial All properties are well represented by local real expansion and relocation. Additionally, there are estate brokers. many locations for small commercial, professional, service and medical offices throughout the neigh- borhoods of Chico. You will find pockets of business Consult the “Best Fits” guide on the facing page to activity throughout the city, but the opportunity areas determine where your business might locate in Chico.

Airport Park

Recycling Market Development Zone

Bidwell Park COHASSET RD COHASSET BidwellPark

99

EAST AVE

North Valley Plaza MANGROVE AVE

ESPLANADE BidwellPark

Meriam Park 32 32 Enloe Hospital NORD AVE 99

Chico BRUCE RD State 8TH & 9TH ST 20TH ST Downtown PARK AVE 20th St Corridor

Chicostart Butte College Chico Center

The Wedge SKYWAY

Hegan Lane Business Park MIDWAY

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 16 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

BEST FITS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

INDUSTRIAL Advanced manufacturing and large scale tech are locating in fully improved ƒƒ Chico Airport Park business parks. Companies welcoming industry-tourism are clustering in South ƒƒ Hegan Lane Business Park Chico. Chico’s newest business development, Meriam Park, is a unique 270‑acre ƒƒ The Wedge, and some sites urban-cool development by entrepreneurs Ken Grossman (Sierra Nevada along Park & Skyway in South Brewery) and Dan Gonzales (Fifth Sun). Chico ƒƒ Meriam Park

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES A growing number of start-ups and professional services are attracted to the ƒƒ Downtown Chico downtown’s creative buzz, the Esplanade and the neighborhoods. Medical ƒƒ Meriam Park offices are found throughout Chico; particularly near Enloe Hospital along the ƒƒ Chico Commercial Broker List Esplanade, on Skyway and in north Chico.

REGIONAL RETAIL HUB Big box commercial enterprises and national franchises are typically drawn to established areas around 20th St. and the North Valley Plaza. Mangrove ƒƒ 20th St Corridor Ave. and East Ave. are additional hubs of retail with large and small shopping ƒƒ North Valley Plaza centers.

TOURISM-ORIENTED Artists, foodies, and creative businesses are finding unique spaces in downtown, ƒƒ Downtown Chico on Mangrove Ave., in the neighborhoods, and along Park Avenue/The Wedge, ƒƒ 20th St. Corridor where the area is beginning to regentrify. ƒƒ North Valley Plaza

TECH START-UP With Chico’s entrepreneurial DNA, Chicostart supports start-ups with shared space and services in downtown Chico. It’s within walking distance of the ƒƒ Chicostart university, located on the first floor of the Municipal building downtown at 5th ƒƒ Meriam Park and Main. The upcoming Meriam Park will accommodate this group.

Hegan Lane entrance Airport Business Park

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 17 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

SCENES FROM Hegan Lane The Wedge OPPORTUNITY Airport Downtown AREAS: Airport North Valley Plaza Downtown 20th Street Corridor (Chico Mall)

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 18 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

THE DISTRICTS AT MERIAM PARK

TANK: The social center of Meriam Park, the Tank District, will feature a farm-to- table food emphasis, retail shops with products from local food and beverage manufacturers, bars, a kitchen incubator and event facility, music venues, and health and wellness amenities—all amidst mixed-use storefronts and residences in the shadows of iconic steel water tanks. THRIVE: As its name implies, Thrive will spark opportunities for the passionate pursuit of purpose. A business district accommodating local and regional startups, Thrive infuses economic vitality in the community and allows companies to cost-effectively relocate and expand, while also providing access to the award-winning graduates of Chico State University. DWELL: The Dwell district will offer a variety of diverse single- and multi-family residences, urban flats, and townhomes nestled among neighborhood parks, athletic fields, and community gardens—all within a walkable and bike-friendly setting.

Read more about Meriam Park at choosechico.com/real-estate/. Business Spotlight

MERIAM PARK IN CHICO: Since 2016 WWW.MERIAMPARK.COM DEVELOPMENT: Mixed use, master-planned city within CHICO EXPERIENCE: This 270-acre planned development epitomizes a city the Chico Experience, mixing new urbanism with traditional FUN FACT: Launched by neighborhood design. Meriam Park will be an innovative two of Chico’s most successful community where culture, commerce and creativity unite. Three entrepreneurs: Dan Gonzales diverse districts for living, working and socializing all coexist within (Fifth Sun) & Ken Grossman a walkable space. (Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.)

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 19 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Multipurpose building, Marsh Junior High School, Chico, California Business Spotlight

MODERN BUILDING COMPANY WWW.MODERNBUILDINGINC.COM

CHICO EXPERIENCE: “Modern Building is proud to have been a part of shap- IN CHICO: Since 1946 ing the last 71 years of Chico’s history. With hundreds of commercial, medi- SERVICE: General contractor cal, industrial, agricultural, and educational buildings we have built around Chico, it is always fun and exciting to say, ‘We built that!’ While our methods FUN FACT: Modern’s first may have evolved over the years, our portfolio of buildings is an enduring motto, from Lou Chrysler: testament to our quality and workmanship. The business friendly environment “Rome wasn’t built in a day– Chico offers has enabled our growth and success for decades.” Modern wasn’t on that job.” James Seegert, President

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 20 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

PERMITTING PROCESS NON-RESIDENTIAL PERMITS ISSUED IN CHICO (PUBLIC & PRIVATE) CITY OF CHICO Number Valuation BUILDING DIVISION WWW.CHICO.CA.US 140 $50M (530) 879-6700 Office (530) 879-6799 Inspection Line $40M 105

$30M Contact the Building Division for 70 permits related to the construc- $20M tion, remodeling, and demolition 35 of buildings and structures in $10M Chico. 0 $0M 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Year Online Permit Manager The following simple permits are Bldgs Valuation available online through the City’s Permit Manager:

• Heating or Air-Conditioning System Permits • Production Phase Homes 2015 2016 2016 Permits • Re-Roofing Permits • Solar Permits RESIDENTIAL PERMITS ISSUED IN CHICO • Water Heater Permits (PUBLIC & PRIVATE) Number Valuation Processing Time 600 $90M $80M SIMPLE ONLINE PERMITS. Most 450 $70M simple permits are approved $60M immediately, so you can print out $50M 300 your permit and begin work in $40M minutes. $30M 150 $20M OTHER PERMITS. There are several $10M 0 $0M different types of permits based 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 on the type of construction, and Year the permit issuance periods vary. No. Houses No. Bldgs Total Valuation For most projects the City can review the plans within three Source: City of Chico Building Division, January 2017. weeks of submittal.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 21 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Workforce

Educated, Productive Workforce KEY Chico’s workforce includes college graduates who decided to stay, ! TAKEAWAY locals with small town values who never want to leave, students seeking part-time income and experience, and newbies attracted to our active, Regional labor force family-friendly lifestyle. It’s a low-stress, low-cost environment where of 170,000 well-educated employees can afford to live and purchase a home close to work. people. Lower wage rates reflect the lower See Business Resources and Higher Education to learn how Chico is cost of living. working to create a prepared workforce.

LABOR MAP Find more maps in the Demographic, Develop- ment Opportunities, and Transportation sections.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 22 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM WORKFORCE

COMMUTING LABOR FORCE AND UNEMPLOYMENT More time for family and friends. 53.4% of Chico residents Chico draws its workers from a regional laborshed of 170,280 commute less than 15 minutes.

175,000 8% Chico 150,000

125,000 7% 46.6% 53.4% 100,000

75,000

6% California 50,000

25,000 22.9%

0 5% 2015 2016 2017 2015 2016 2017 77.1% LABOR FORCE UNEMPLOYMENT 4-County Area* Chico Chico MSA (Butte Co.) Chico MSA (Butte Co.) Chico 4-County Area* U.S.

Source: California Employment Development Department, Labor Market Information Division; 2015 & 2016: Unadjusted Annual Averages, Report 400 C. 2017:Current Month Unemployment and Labor Force, Cities and Sub-County Places, April 2017. 26.4% *4–County Workforce Area includes Butte, Glenn, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

73.6% EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT 74% of Chico adults are educated beyond high school  < 15 Minute ≥ 15 Minutes vs. 61% in California and 58% in the U.S.

Chico California U.S.

AVERAGE TIME TO WORK 26% 29% 33% 31% CHICO: 39% 42% 18.9 MIN.

CALIFORNIA: 41% 30% 29% 27.9 MIN

HS or less Some college or Associate Bachelor’s or higher

Source: Educational Attainment (2015) US Census Bureau, ACS 2015 data; Table S1501, April 2017. Source: Nielsen 2015 data, June 2016.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 23 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM WORKFORCE

WAGES BY SELECTED OCCUPATIONS

MANAGEMENT, BUSINESS, & FINANCIAL SOC CODE* STARTING EXPERIENCED Accountant & Auditor 13 -2011 $22.33 $31.28 H.R. & Labor Relations Specialist 13-1071 $20.06 $30.23 Purchasing Agent (ex wholesale, retail & farm) 13-1023 $21.60 $31.32 Sales Manager 11-2022 $23.42 $52.15 Computer & Info Systems Manager 11- 3021 $44.20 $58.87 Industrial Productions Manager 11- 3051 $32.07 $44.40 Human Resource Manager 11- 3121 $32.07 $46.40 OFFICE ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Supervisor of Office Workers 43 -1011 $19.81 $28.82 Bookkeeping, Accounting Clerk 43-3031 $13.96 $21.76 Payroll & Timekeeping Clerk 43-3051 $16.21 $23.41 Customer Service Rep 43-4051 $13.47 $18.89 Information & Records Clerk 43-4199 $16.14 $22.65 Shipping, Receiving, Traffic Clerk 43-5071 $18.75 $28.54 Executive Secretary & Admin Assistant 43 - 6 011 $13.54 $20.49 Secretary (ex legal, medical & executive) 43-6014 $14.53 $24.01 Word Processor & Typist 43-9022 $14.53 $24.01 COMPUTER & IT SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Computer Programmer 15 -1131 $20.26 $44.42 Network & Computer Systems Administrator 15-1071 $ 27. 37 $44.56 ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Civil Engineer 17-2051 $38.45 $51.09 Electronics Engineer (except computer) 17-2072 $ 37. 6 0 $50.20 Mechanical Engineer 17-2141 $27.13 $42.99 Architectural & Civil Drafter 17- 3011 $22.90 $35.56 Civil Engineering Technician 17-3022 $14.02 $30.96 CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Supervisor of Trades Workers 47-1011 $26.81 $44.89 Carpenter 47-2031 $17. 21 $26.10 Construction Laborer 47-2061 $14.46 $26.85 Equipment Operator 47-2073 $22.61 $34.00 Electrician 47-2111 $28.02 $ 37. 21 Painter 47-2141 $15.89 $22.71 Installation, maintenance & repair worker 49-9099 $11. 78 $29.12 Auto Service Mechanic & Technician 49-3023 $14.44 $23.41 Industrial Machinery Mechanic 49-9041 $13.76 $26.04 Maintenance & Repair Worker 49-9071 $13.07 $21.05 Machinery Maintenance 49-9043 $16.21 $22.88 continues

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 24 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM WORKFORCE

Founder, Bill Gaines, inspects a part. Read a profile of Transfer Flow at choosechico.com. Business Spotlight

TRANSFER FLOW IN CHICO: Since 1983 WWW.TRANSFERFLOW.COM PRODUCT: Aftermarket and OEM fuel tanks CHICO EXPERIENCE: “We have continued to expand our business in this area because it is a great place to attract the type of FUN FACT: Transfer Flow has employees we want in our company. Employees who share similar manufactured over 250,000 family values on what it means to own and operate a for profit fuel tanks since they’ve been business and build an American made product. Employees who in business. work hard, and recognize how important manufacturing is.” Bill Gaines, Senior Engineer and Chairman

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 25 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM WORKFORCE

WAGES BY SELECTED OCCUPATIONS, CONTINUED

PRODUCTION & TRANSPORTATION SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Production Supervisor 51-1011 $17.93 $26.86 Assembler & Fabricator 51-2099 $10.38 $12.65 Computer Controlled Machine Tool Operator 51- 4 011 $15.33 $18.98 Machinist 51-4041 $15.68 $21.34 Welder, Cutter, Solderer, Brazer 51-4121 $17. 4 4 $ 27. 71 Quality Inspector, Tester, Sorter, Sampler, Weigher 51-9061 $10.22 $16.34 Truck Driver, Heavy 53-3032 $16.98 $24.32 Truck Driver, Light 53-3033 $10.76 $18.21 Industrial Truck & Tractor Operator 53-7051 $13.57 $23.78 Laborers & Freight, Stock, & Material Mover, hand 53.7062 $10.22 $16.74 LIFE & PHYSICAL SCIENCE SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Biological Scientists, all other 19-1029 $20.23 $28.56 Biological Technician 19-4021 $12.60 $19.31 HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONERS & TECHNICAL SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Dietitian & Nutritionist 29-1031 $20.55 $30.88 Registered Nurse 29 -1141 $29.33 $45.51 Physical Therapist 29 -1123 $40.52 $53.78 Medical & Clinical Lab Technologist 29 -2011 $39.38 $54.35 LPN and LVN 29-2061 $20.13 $25.08 Medical Records Technician 29-2071 $12.75 $18.63 SALES, MARKETING, DESIGN & RELATED SOC CODE STARTING EXPERIENCED Media & Communication 27-3099 $17. 22 $24.49 Graphic Designer 27-1024 $16.27 $23.48 Retail Sales Person 41-2031 $10.07 $15.20 Sales Rep (services, all other) 41-3099 $17. 21 $30.50 Sales Rep (except technical, scientific) 41-4012 $17.9 0 $35.27

Source: State of California Employment Development Department, Labor Market Information Division, Employment and Wages Occupations, 1st Quarter 2016 data for Butte County/ MSA, April 2017. *Standard Occupational Code

EFFECTIVE 25 EMPLOYEES 26 EMPLOYEES DATE OR LESS OR MORE STATE MINIMUM WAGE 01/01/17 $10.00/hr $10.50/hr California has established the following 01/01/18 $10.50/hr $11.00/hr schedule of minimum wage increases. Several 01/01/19 $11.00/hr $12.00/hr cities in the San Francisco Bay Area and 01/01/20 $12.00/hr $13.00/hr Southern California have set higher rates; 01/01/21 $13.00/hr $14.00/hr Chico, with its lower cost of living, observes 01/01/22 $14.00/hr $15.00/hr the state minimums. 01/01/23 $15.00/hr Source: Dept. of Industrial Relations, January 2017.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 26 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM WORKFORCE

STATE MANDATES If you are new to business or new to California, the table below summarizes the taxes and benefits that can impact your total employment costs.

EMPLOYMENT TAXES & MANDATED BENEFITS

TAX / BENEFIT RATE / BASIS ADMINISTERING AGENCY

0.9% (employee wage deduction) California Employment Disability Insurance Based on $106,742 taxable wages, limit is $980/employee per Development Department calendar year www.edd.ca.gov

California Employment 0.1% (employee wage deduction) Employment Training Tax Development Department The taxable wage limit us $7,000/ employee per calendar year www.edd.ca.gov

1.5%-6.2% on 1st $7,000/ employee per calendar year, based on an California Employment employer’s experience rating and the balance in the UI Fund. Unemployment Insurance Development Department www.edd.ca.gov 3.4% for new employers for 2-3 years

California Department of Workers’ Compensation Based on payroll and occupations Industrial Relations www.dir.ca.gov

Employees covered by Disability Insurance (see above) are eligible for California Employment up to six (6) weeks of paid family leave to care for a seriously ill child, Family Leave Development Department spouse, parent or domestic partner, or to bond with a new minor child. www.edd.ca.gov Disability Insurance is paid by employee.

Source: California Employment Development Department, 2016 California Employer’s Guide, Publication DE 44 Rev. 42 (1-16); California Department of Industrial Relations, May 2016.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 27 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Higher Education

Education, Culture and Vitality CHICO COLLEGES IN A NUTSHELL California’s three-tiered system of higher education makes college more affordable for residents than in many other states. CHICO STATE Two of those tiers are represented right here in Chico: Butte Col- California State University, Chico offers bachelor’s and lege and California State University, Chico (known by nearly master’s degree programs to everyone as Chico State). over 17,000 students. Engi- neering and computer science students regularly bring home Unlike some cities where the college is tucked away, Chico the big prizes from national State anchors the downtown. It’s a gorgeous campus. You may competitions, and grads are want to grab a slice of pizza downtown and stroll onto campus heavily recruited. for a lunchtime picnic by the creek. This proximity is also conve- BUTTE COLLEGE nient for businesses seeking access to expertise and talent. Butte Butte-Glenn Community College’s “official” campus is 20 miles south (and it’s a nature College District enrolls over preserve, incidentally), but it has a significant presence in Chico, 12,000 students, with options with two large buildings near the Skyway and Hwy 99. for career technical training as well as university transfer. The Training Place and the Small A recent addition is the private Columbia College, delivering Business Development Center, fast-tracked online education for career-minded individuals. both housed in Butte’s Chico Center, provide employee Cal Northern School of Law rounds out the educational offer- training and business coun- ings in the city, with several others nearby; notably UC Davis, seling. a highly regarded research university. COLUMBIA COLLEGE Columbia College offers accredited degree programs with the flexible scheduling of online education. Its main campus is in Missouri, and a local advisor is available in Chico.

CAL NORTHERN SCHOOL OF LAW Graduates of the only law school between Sacramento and the Oregon border have an impressive bar exam pass rate. The school offers a Juris Chico State students participate in Engineering Capstone event. Doctor degree and Master of Legal Studies

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 28 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM HIGHER EDUCATION

UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES WITHIN 90 MILES OF CHICO

HIGHEST INSTITUTION LOCATION DISTANCE ENROLLMENT ADMIN DEGREE California State University, Chico Chico 0 miles Master’s 17,220 Public Chico (center) 0 miles Butte College Associate 11, 6 69 Public Oroville (main) 20 miles Cal Northern School of Law Chico 0 miles Juris Doctor 16 Private Chico (center) Columbia College (online) Columbia, MS 0 miles Master’s – Private (main) Yuba College Marysville 44 miles Associate 6,869 Public Simpson University Redding 66 miles Master’s 1,162 Private Shasta College Redding 66 miles Associate 8,620 Public University of California, Davis Davis 83 miles Doctorate 35,186 Public California State University, Sacramento Sacramento 85 miles Master’s 30,284 Public Source: National Center for Education Statistics, Fall 2015 data, reported April 2017; Respective institutions, April 2017.

EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE Here is a small sampling of the honors achieved by students and faculty at Chico State and Butte College.

TOP 50. One of Money Magazine’s “50 WIND TURBINE. Engineering students took CHICO STATE Best Public Colleges” and “50 Colleges That 1st place in U.S. Dept. of Energy Collegiate Add the Most Value” (2016). Wind Competition for off-grid wind turbine project to power rural schools (2016). ENGINEERING. Top 3 among “50 Best Engineering Schools 2016” (Best Value SME GRAND PRIZE. Engineering students Schools). won the grand prize for a sustainable composite skateboard deck, Society of SUSTAINABLE MANUFACTURING. Students took 2nd and 3rd place at the at Manufacturing Engineers (2012). the 2016 Small Manufacturers’ Institute TIER-ONE MBA. Chico State ranked as a collegiate competition. Tier-One MBA Program in North America (CEO Magazine’s 2016 Global MBA Rankings).

BUTTE COLLEGE EMERGENCY SERVICES. #2 ranked EMT WELDING. Butte’s welding program won program, #9 Fire Science program for the 2015 Excellence in Action award for return on investment (firescience.org, 2017). best career technical program in the nation (awarded by NASDCTEc). AUTOMOTIVE. 1st place winners in engineering technology design, additive TOP FARMS. Butte College ranked 5th in manufacturing, automotive service “Top 20 Best University Farms in America” technologies, technical drafting (SkillsUSA by Best College Reviews. Chico State also regionals, 2017). made the Top 20 (2015). TECHNOLOGY. Butte students took 1st in PROSTHETICS. 3D printed prosthetic hands engineering, 2nd in robotics at SkillsUSA designed by Butte students won two awards national competition (2016). at the Phi Theta Kappa national conference (2016).

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 29 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM HIGHER EDUCATION

CHICO STATE recruited. Agriculture is another area which Chico State shines, providing resources to regional farmers and food processors. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, CHICO WWW.CSUCHICO.EDU (530) 898-4636 Many graduates fall in love with the area and would College of Engineering, Computer Science and Construction choose to stay in Chico, given the right job opportu- Management (College of ECC) – Undergraduate and nities. Some move away, only to come back and start graduate programs. WWW.CSUCHICO.EDU/ECC/ businesses of their own. Career Center – Career fairs, on-campus recruiting, job posting. WWW.CSUCHICO.EDU/CAREERS/ Engineering, Computer Science, Construction University Farm – 800-acre working farm in Chico. WWW.CSUCHICO.EDU/AG/FARM/ The College of Engineering, Computer Science and Construction Management (ECC) offers 11 under- California State University, Chico enrolls over 17,000 graduate and 2 graduate programs, with rapidly students per year and offers bachelor’s, master’s and growing enrollment in most disciplines. Students are some certificate programs. The University’s computer frequent standouts in national competitions such as science, manufacturing, construction management, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and the and business management graduates are heavily Association of General Contractors.

Business Spotlight

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, CHICO WWW.CSUCHICO.EDU

IN CHICO: Since 1887 PRODUCT: Over 3,500 graduates per year FUN FACT: Started out as a teaching college CHICO EXPERIENCE: It’s easy to describe Chico State’s excellence in broad statistics, but individ- ual experiences tell the story. Consider professor Charlie Roberts, who heard about young burn victim, Tito Salomon. He engaged a team of students to design a robotic hand for Tito using a 3D printer. It allowed Tito to toss a ball — and more importantly, sparked his interest in pursuing a robotics degree for himself. Read more: csuchico.edu/chicostatements/2016-fall/

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 30 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM HIGHER EDUCATION

Notable College of ECC features include: Solar – A solar laboratory on the roof of the engi- neering building is used by students for hands-on Computer Animation – One-of-a-kind Computer projects. Animation and Game Development degree in the CSU system. Entrepreneurship Mechatronics – ABET-accredited Mechatronic Engineering program is the only such program in the The Chico State Center for Entrepreneurship provides CSU system. support for students and recent alumni to build their own businesses. The Center aims to help students Polymers – PhD-level research on biodegradable move beyond the classroom, remove the barriers to plastics is conducted by undergraduates in the Poly- success, and pave the way for a successful business mers Manufacturing Laboratory. launch. Each semester the Center hosts a variety of Concrete – Concrete Industry Management is one competitions with cash prizes to challenge students of only four such programs in the country. and expose them to real-world ideas. The Center Pavement – California’s only Caltrans certified also makes startup funds available in the range of laboratory — the California Pavement Preservation $5,000-$10,000 twice every year through its Accel- Center (CPPC). erator Fund.

CHICO STATE ENROLLMENT IN TECH FIELDS ECC* enrollment grew 32% from 2011-2015 Total Tech Enrollment (2015): Total Tech Graduates (2015):

2015 FALL ENROLLMENT

Electrical/Computer Engineering, MS 44 2250 Computer Science, MS 56 Sustainable Manufacturing, BS 84 Mechatronic Engineering, BS 216 Mechanical Engineering, BS 391 1500 Electrical/Electronic Engineering, BS 159 Construction Management, BS 383 Concrete Industry Management, BS 48 Computer Science, BS 308 750 Computer Information Systems, BS 90 Computer Engineering, BS 117 Computer Animation & Game Development, BS 236 Civil Engineering, BS 335 0 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

*Fall Enrollment Source: CSU, Chico, College of Engineering, Computer Science and Construction Management (ECC) (May 2016)

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 31 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM HIGHER EDUCATION

Agriculture And Food Processing California’s Sacramento Valley has a rich agricultural heritage, and the University’s College of Agriculture CHICO STATE’S is a valuable partner to ag and food processing 10 LARGEST MAJORS companies in the region. The college offers bache- Business Administration 2,535 lor’s degrees in Ag Science and Ag Business and an Psychology 1,055 online master’s degree in Ag Education. Pre-Nursing 826 Criminal Justice 644 The 800-acre University Farm supplements classroom Biology 534 learning with hands-on experience, led by a farm Liberal Studies 515 manager and 15 full-time staff members. The Farm’s Construction Management 468 diverse products include meat, row crops, orchards Kinesiology 473 and organic vegetables. The University has formed Exercise Physiology 449 unique partnerships with area businesses such as Social Work 422 Sierra Nevada Brewery, which provides grain and Source: Chico Facts, www.csuchico.edu, Based on current yeast byproducts for feed and in turn serves Universi- number of students officially declaring majors. (March 2017) ty-raised beef in its restaurant. College Values Online ranked Chico State’s University as the number 1 sustainable college farm in the country. © Laura Sederberg Laura © © Laura Sederberg Laura ©

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 32 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM HIGHER EDUCATION

BUTTE COLLEGE partnerships with the state university system. Butte enrolls over 12,000 students and offers associate degrees and certificate programs. A number of BUTTE-GLENN COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT courses, such as the college’s automotive program, WWW.BUTTE.EDU ( 530 ) 895 -2511 are offered in Chico, in addition to the main campus Career Services – Interns and employee recruitment 20 miles south of town. WWW.BUTTE.EDU/SERVICES/CAREER_SERVICES/ Small Business Development Center – Seminars and consultation for small business owners. Career Training WWW.BUTTECOLLEGESBDC.COM A number of Butte College programs have achieved The Training Place – Low-cost, specialized training for staff and supervisors. recognition beyond the north state, including WWW.BUTTE.EDU/THETRAININGPLACE/ welding, the Firefighter Academy, the Law Enforce- ment Academy, agriculture and health professions. Butte-Glenn Community College District provides For companies seeking trained employees, Butte low-cost career and technical education options offers specialized training in computer networking, for local residents in allied health, business and applied computer graphics, automotive technology, information technology, engineering and industrial heavy equipment operation, retail management and technology, agriculture, and welding. For some office skills, to name a few examples. There are over students, it is the gateway to a four-year degree via 160 programs from which to choose.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 33 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM HIGHER EDUCATION

Employee Training Sustainability The Training Place, located at the Butte College Butte College is a longtime leader in sustainability, Chico Center, provides low-cost short courses for which is frequently leveraged into educational oppor- employees throughout the year, covering everything tunities. For example, the Mathematics, Engineering, from forklift safety to supervisory skills to lean man- Science Achievement (MESA) students have worked ufacturing. Customized training is available, and as interns on a biofiltration wetland lab, and the courses can be offered on-site or in classrooms. Agriculture department achieved organic certification on part of its farm. The college became the first “grid Small Business Assistance positive” college in 2011, employing 25,000 solar panels with a capacity of 6.4 million kWh‚ enough to Businesses seeking assistance with issues such as mar- keting, business planning and financial management fully offset its electricity cost. The campus has taken a can contact the Small Business Development Center, number of additional measures related to LEED cer- also located in the Chico Center. SBDC provides tified buildings, land use, and green jobs. Moreover, training and consultation. the 928-acre main campus, 15 miles south of Chico, is a designated wildlife refuge. It is not uncommon to See contact information for The Training Place and peer out from a classroom and see deer and other SBDC on the previous page. wildlife grazing in the natural surroundings.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 34 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM HIGHER EDUCATION

COLUMBIA COLLEGE CAL NORTHERN SCHOOL OF LAW

COLUMBIA COLLEGE CAL NORTHERN SCHOOL OF LAW WWW.CCIS.EDU CALNORTHERN.EDU (530) 592-3196 (530) 891-6900 Columbia College, based in Columbia, Missouri, Cal Northern School of Law in Chico offers working is a private nonprofit institution, operating since professionals the opportunity to earn a Juris Doctor 1851. The college hosts a number of satellite degree degree or master’s degree through evening school. programs around the country, and it selected Chico Founded in 1992, Cal Northern is the only California for its online program in 2016. Flexible timing and law school north of Sacramento. Graduates of Cal reasonable costs make Columbia an ideal solution Northern have consistently achieved higher than for working adults seeking advancement or new average pass rates on the California Bar Exam, careers. compared with other well-respected institutions.

Online Degree Options Two Programs Of Study Chico students can pursue degrees and certificates Juris Doctor Degree (J.D.) – Targeted to working from associate through master’s degrees. There are professionals, this four-year, part-time program offers 27 accredited programs available for online study in evening courses leading to a J.D. degree and appli- the areas of business & marketing, computer science, cation to the California Bar. education, criminal justice, nursing, general studies, history, literature, psychology & sociology. Master of Legal Studies (M.L.S.) – The two-year program is ideal for professionals who need legal expertise without actually practicing law. It brings Flexible Scheduling awareness to those employed in fields such as Courses are offered in 8-week sessions, 6 times per banking, finance, insurance, education, law enforce- year, rather than lengthier semesters or quarters. Be- ment, human relations, and sales and marketing, to cause they are online, students can take the courses comply with the law and avoid potential litigation. when time permits, as long as they complete weekly assignments.

Local Advising One unique feature of the online program is the presence of a personal advisor located here in Chico ? RELATED INFO to assist students with the application process and other questions. K-12 Education: see Lifestyle, pg. 63 Hiring & Training: see Business Resources, pg. 37

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 35 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Business Resources

Service and a Smile BUSINESS Chico businesses are well-supported with resources to start, manage, LOCATION AND and grow their companies. The advent of Team Chico, a co­ alition of EXPANSION community organizations and the City, signified a new era of collabora- tion among groups with a common interest in job creation, public safety, CITY OF CHICO and placemaking. Representatives from these organizations recognized WWW.CHICO.CA.US how much can be accomplished when results are more important than Mark Orme, who gets credit. Practical outcomes have included door-to-door business City Manager (530) 896-7201 walks to identify issues before they become deal-breakers, ongoing Chris Constantin, meetings with public safety officials, and introduction of the Beauti- Assistant City Manager ful-Clean-Safe campaign downtown. In this section you will find where to (530) 896-7202 get assistance in the following areas: Debbie Collins, Management Analyst • Hiring & Training • International Trade (530) 896-7216 • Business Assistance • Business & Industry Groups The City of Chico will guide you • Entrepreneurs and • Conference Facilities to the right service to smooth Innovation your location process. • Financing ƒƒ Early and free feedback on development projects ƒƒ Foreign Trade Zone ƒƒ Recycling Market Development Zone ƒƒ FAA certified municipal airport

For more information about City services, please see the “Government” chapter.

Downtown ambassadors help keep streets clean; part of the Beautiful-Clean-Safe initiative coordinated by Downtown Chico Business Association.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 36 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

HIRING & TRAINING LOCAL PRIVATE Chico State and Butte College produce a steady stream of educated job EMPLOYMENT applicants, and both hold career fairs through their career centers (see AGENCIES “Higher Education”). When it comes to finding more experienced staff, (Sampling) screening candidates, conducting large-scale recruitment or training employees in job-specific skills, the following organizations can help. ADECCO STAFFING In some cases, businesses can be reimbursed for hiring and/or training WWW.ADECCOUSA.COM qualified new employees. Butte Community Employment Center’s One- (530) 343-5000 Stop is the place to learn more about these opportunities. ALLEVITY HR & PAYROLL WWW.ALLEVITYHR.COM BUTTE COMMUNITY ƒƒ Communications & Conflict 530-345-8486 EMPLOYMENT CENTER - CHICO ƒƒ Compliance, quality and safety ƒƒ Computer skills WWW.BUTTEONESTOP.ORG ANDERSON & ASSOCIATES (530) 895-4364 ƒƒ Solidworks ƒƒ Manager and supervisor training WWW.ANDERSONJOBS.COM One–stop assistance; has provided em- (530) 891-1955 ployee recruiting and screening services WORK TRAINING CENTER for some of Chico’s largest employers. EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT ƒƒ Hiring tax credits WTCINC.ORG (530) 343-7994 WWW.EXPRESSPROS.COM/CHICO/ ƒƒ Employee recruitment & ads (530) 898-0688 ƒƒ Employee screening and testing Career training programs and on-the- ƒƒ Interviewing job candidates job experience for developmentally RUSH PERSONNEL SERVICES ƒƒ Facilities for distributing and disabled adults, including contract accepting applications, conducting services for local manufacturers and WWW.RUSH-PERSONNEL.COM interviews, testing and training small businesses. (530) 893-5500 ƒƒ On–the–job training cost ƒƒ Assembly

reimbursement ƒƒ Janitorial services Sources: Yelp.com and respective organizations, ƒƒ Landscaping M a rc h 2 017. BUTTE COUNTY CAREER ƒƒ Recycling TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTER ƒƒ Soft goods CTEC.BCOE.ORG ƒƒ Wood products (530 ) 879-7462 Umbrella organization for youth train- CAL JOBS ing, adult education, and special needs WWW.CALJOBS.CA.GOV career training. Regional Occupational (800) 758-0398 Program (ROP) provides career tech- California Employment Development RELATED nical training to high school students Department website provides a place ? INFO through the Butte County Office of for employers to post job openings. Education. Training includes: ƒƒ Basic academic and work skills Colleges & Universities: CALIFORNIA EMPLOYMENT ƒƒ Building construction see Higher Education, TRAINING PANEL ƒƒ Medical assistants and scribes WWW.ETP.CA.GOV pg. 28 ƒƒ Pharmacy technicians (916) 327-5640 Labor Data: State program reimburses the training THE TRAINING PLACE – BUTTE costs for workers who successfully com- see Workforce, pg. 22 COLLEGE plete the program and are retained on WWW.BUTTE.EDU/THETRAININGPLACE Information and Education the job for a set amount of time. (530) 895-9015 for Small Business Owners: Source: Respective organizations, May 2016; Butte Low–cost workshops, customized train- County Career Technical Education Center and Work see Small Business ing, online training, at Butte College Training Center updated March 2017. Development Center, or on site; employee and management training; also instructional design ser- pg. 38 vices. Short courses offered year-round. ƒƒ HR skills

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 37 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE ENTREPRENEURS AND INNOVATION All of these services provide information or mentoring to existing busi- nesses. If you are just starting a business, the Small Business Develop- All business owners are entre- ment Center is the best place to start. Tech start-ups should consider preneurs, but there is a smaller reaching out to Chicostart (see “Entrepreneurs and Innovation.” category of fast-growth innovator with unique business needs. We 3CORE owners and potential entrepreneurs. frequently associate this category WWW.3COREEDC.ORG Areas of expertise include: with tech; however, innovative (530) 893-8732 ƒƒ Tax planning and requirements entrepreneurship occurs in many Private, nonprofit corporation that ƒƒ Business and marketing plan serves as the economic development ƒƒ Business acquisition and sale fields. planning and coordinating agency for ƒƒ Funding options and loan proposal Butte, Glenn and Tehama counties and ƒƒ Cash flow management ƒƒ Business feasibility, viability and the nine member cities. 3CORE offers CHICOSTART the following business services: financial analysis ƒƒ Advertising, promotion, e–commerce CHICOSTART.COM ƒƒ Business Incubation Program (530) 892-1707 ƒƒ Business financing and pricing strategies ƒƒ Manufacturing Technology focused startup incubator ƒƒ Patent, trademark, copyright in downtown Chico. Chicostart offers CENTER FOR ECONOMIC ƒƒ Government contracting resources to startups and provides a DEVELOPMENT physical platform to facilitate and nur- CEDCAL.COM ture the growth of Chico’s technology SCORE (530) 898-4598 sector. Services include: WWW.CHICO.SCORECHAPTER.ORG ƒƒ Incubator program Market area data and workshops on (530) 342-8932 business and economic topics. CED’s ƒƒ Resources and tools business services include: Free business mentoring by active and ƒƒ Tech talk meetups ƒƒ Annual economic scorecard retired senior executives. ƒƒ Capital match ƒƒ County profiles ƒƒ Business plan evaluation ƒƒ Community workshops and events ƒƒ Counseling assistance on growth and CSU, CHICO – CENTER FOR ƒƒ Applied research – public sector stability strategies ENTREPRENEURSHIP WWW.CSUCHICO.EDU/CFE/ SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF (530) 898-6680 CENTER BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC Assists students and recent alumni to WWW.BUTTECOLLEGESBDC.COM DEVELOPMENT (GO-BIZ) build their businesses. (530) 895 -9017 BUSINESS.CA.GOV ƒƒ Accelerator fund for students Northeastern California Small Business (916) 322-0694 ƒƒ Competition and events Development Center (SBDC) at the California Business Portal lists resources Butte College Chico Center offers one- for business assistance, including state SACRAMENTO AREA REGIONAL stop business management assistance licensing requirements, startup, financ- TECHNOLOGY ALLIANCE through one-on-one business consulting, ing, and state incentives. WWW.SARTA.ORG workshops, seminars, classes, confer- Source: Respective providers, May 2016; GO-Biz (916) 447-7399 ences, and referrals to small business updated April 2017. Startup resources, mentoring, funding, networking for development–stage

technology companies.

UC DAVIS INNOVATION ACCESS INNOVATIONACCESS.UCDAVIS.EDU (530) 754-8649 Connects research to the marketplace. ƒƒ Research partnerships The Training Place and the Small Business Development Center ƒƒ Access to technologies are housed at Butte College’s Skyway Center in Chico. Source: Respective providers, updated March 2017.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 38 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

ƒƒ Tires FINANCING ƒƒ Organics ƒƒ Construction/demolition debris INTERNATIONAL Business loans are the traditional TRADE method for financing a small SUPERIOR CALIFORNIA business, while Angel or Venture ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR WWW.SCEDD.ORG INTERNATIONAL TRADE Capital is generally reserved for (530) 225-2760 fast growth companies expected (CITD) FAR NORTH REGION SBA 504 Loans for real estate, ma- WWW.CITD.ORG to show a high return on invest- chinery, equipment for expansion or hosted by Feather River College ment (think Shark Tank).The first modernization. (916) 205- 6473 step to obtaining financing is a Funded by the Chancellor’s Office U.S. SMALL BUSINESS of the California Community solid business plan. The Small ADMINISTRATION College system to assist exporters Business Development Center WWW.SBA.GOV and importers. Services are free (see “Business Assistance”) can (800) 827-5722 or low cost. SBA 7(a) Loans for working capital, ƒƒ One-on-one technical assis- provide guidance. machinery, equipment, furniture and tance and consulting fixtures, property and construction, ƒƒ Market research leasehold improvements, debt refinanc- ƒƒ Training and educational Business Financing ing. Apply through your local banker. programs ƒƒ Trade leads and special events 3CORE Angel & Venture Capital GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF WWW.3COREEDC.ORG (530) 893-8732 BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC ANGEL CAPITAL ASSOCIATION DEVELOPMENT (GO-BIZ) Financing for business expansion includ- WWW.ANGELCAPITALASSOCIATION.ORG BUSINESS.CA.GOV ing property, equipment, and working (913) 894-4700 (916) 322-0694 capital. Alliance of angel investor groups in California Business Portal lists North America. resources for International Trade CHICO / NORTHERN BUTTE and Development. COUNTY RECYCLING MARKET SACRAMENTO ANGELS Source: Respective providers, March 2017. DEVELOPMENT ZONE (RMDZ) WWW.SACANGELS.ORG CALRECYCLE.CA.GOV Angel investor group focused on North- Linda Herman, Public Works ern California companies. Administration Manager (530) 896-7241 Source: Respective providers, April 2016. [email protected] Chico manufacturers that repurpose waste products in their production process may qualify for low-interest loans or grants, as well as other incentives. The entire City of Chico is included in this state-designated recycling zone (see map on next page). Incentives: ƒƒ Low-interest loans ƒƒ Development impact fee deferral ƒƒ Business license tax rebate ƒƒ Database of vacant property ƒƒ Project development review ƒƒ Financial & technical support Target Materials: ƒƒ Paper fibers ƒƒ Ag crop residue TeamChico ambassadors, clipboards in hand, prepare for a door-to-door Business ƒƒ Plastics Walk to hear firsthand how Chico businesses are doing.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 39 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

RMDZ Boundaries 99

Airport 32 PARADISE Park 32 CHICO

99

149 99 COHASSET RD COHASSET

BidwellPark 99

North Valley EAST AVE Plaza

MANGROVE ESPLANADE BidwellPark

32 32 Enloe Hospital NORD AVE 99 20th St Merriam Downtown Corridor Park Chico BRUCE RD State 8TH & 9TH ST 20TH ST City Boundaries PARK AVE The RMDZ Boundaries Wedge Butte College Chico Center Opportunity Areas

SKYWAY

Hegan Lane MIDWAY Business Park

Recycling Zone

RECYCLING MARKET DEVELOPMENT ZONE (RMDZ) INCENTIVES ƒƒ Database of vacant ƒƒ Low-interest loans property Manufacturers located in the RMDZ and using ƒƒ Development impact ƒƒ Project development waste materials in their production process fee deferral review can improve their bottom line through state ƒƒ Business license tax ƒƒ Financial & technical rebate support and local incentives. The zone encompasses all of the City of Chico and portions of CHICO / NORTHERN BUTTE COUNTY RMDZ nearby Butte County. The RMDZ is part of a Linda Herman, Public Works Administration Manager California program to reduce landfill disposal (530) 896-7241 (calrecycle.ca.gov). [email protected]

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 40 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

GROW MANUFACTURING CALIFORNIA BUSINESS BUSINESS & INITIATIVE ROUNDTABLE INDUSTRY GROUPS GROWMANUFACTURING.COM WWW.CBRT.ORG (530) 892-9600 ext 210 (916) 553-4093 Activities of these local and re- The Grow Manufacturing website Nonprofit, nonpartisan organization of gional organizations range from allows manufacturers and suppliers in California CEOs focusing on big picture the North State to connect directly with issues affecting California businesses. business networking to workforce each other through a detailed directory. These issues include infrastructure, edu- development and legislative Grow Manufacturing supports develop- cation, energy, and government reform. advocacy. ment of the next generation manufactur- ing workforce through Train the Trainer CALIFORNIA FARM BUREAU activities, participation in the annual FEDERATION Manufacturing Expo targeted to middle WWW.CFBF.COM Advocacy, Information, school through college students, and (916) 561-5500 other initiatives driven by collaboration Networking between regional industry executives Promotion of agricultural interests. and the education community. CHICO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CALIFORNIA LEAGUE OF FOOD WWW.CHICOCHAMBER.COM CALIFORNIA CHAMBER OF PROCESSORS (530) 895-1202 COMMERCE WWW.CLFP.COM Membership organization that provides WWW.CALCHAMBER.COM (916) 640 -8150 resources, support and promotion of (916) 444-6670 Membership directory, legislative advocacy. Chico businesses. Areas of service: Statewide information and advocacy. ƒƒ Networking and promotion Publications for sale include annual ben- ƒƒ Community promotion efits survey, and employee handbook CALIFORNIA MANUFACTURING ƒƒ Tourism software. AND TECHNOLOGY ƒƒ Business advocacy ASSOCIATION (CMTA) ƒƒ Team Chico – Team Chico launched WWW.CMTA.NET an aggressive, multiple phase initia- CALIFORNIA SMALL BUSINESS (916) 640 -8150 ASSOCIATION tive to outreach to businesses, deliver Business advocacy with the state gov- a comprehensive resource directory WWW.CSBA.COM (310) 642-0838 ernment; legislative updates, confer- of services available to businesses, ences. identify specific business needs and Export helpline available to members, begin to address needs and issues of insurance and retirement plans, business key industry sectors advocacy in state and federal govern- CALIFORNIA SOLAR ENERGY ƒƒ Ambassadors – Volunteers assist ment. INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION the Chamber in reaching its goals of WWW.CALSEIA.ORG advocacy, economic development, (916) 747- 6987 member services and tourism Trade Associations Directory of solar energy providers and ƒƒ Young Professionals Organization – industry information. Once a month young professionals in BUTTE COUNTY FARM BUREAU Chico are invited to listen and learn WWW.BUTTEFARMBUREAU.COM Source: Respective providers, June 2016. from leaders in the community (530) 533-1473 Local advocacy and networking. DOWNTOWN CHICO BUSINESS ASSOCIATION NORTH VALLEY LEAN WWW.DOWNTOWNCHICO.COM WWW.MANUFACTURER-DIRECTORY.COM (530) 345-6500 Wade Meith (MTECH), Chair RELATED Supports Downtown Chico as a vital (530) 894-5091 and thriving retail and cultural center. ? Manufacturers meet monthly to share INFO Services: best practices in lean manufacturing. ƒƒ Downtown location assistance Meet Chico’s Businesses: ƒƒ Events such as Christmas Preview, see Business Overview, sidewalk sales, Concert in the Park, and Thursday Night Market pg. 3 ƒƒ Business directory

Source: Respective organizations, May 2016

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 41 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

Tri Counties Bank campus at the Chico Airport Industrial Park. Read a full profile of Tri Counties Bank Business Spotlight at choosechico.com.

TRI COUNTIES BANK WWW.TCBK.COM IN CHICO: Since 1975 CHICO EXPERIENCE: Tri Counties Bank was founded in Chico in1975. SERVICE: Business and Now with assets of over $4.4 billion, the bank has grown to serve com- personal financial services munities throughout California from the Oregon border to Bakersfield. The bank provides a unique brand of Service With SolutionsTM with a FUN FACT: Tri Counties Bank’s breadth of consumer, small business and commercial banking services first branch was a mobile and easy access to it all with advanced online and mobile banking, facility which opened on bankers available 7 days per week and access to a nationwide sur- March 11, 1975 at the current charge free network of more than 25,000 ATMs. Chico Pillsbury branch site.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 42 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

CONFERENCE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY CHICO MASONIC FAMILY CENTER CHICO WWW.CHICOMASONIC.COM FACILITIES WWW.CSUCHICO.EDU 1110 W East Ave Sierra Hall (3rd & Chestnut) (530) 342-7143 (530) 898-6118 Meeting Rooms: 2 banquet rooms, Meeting Rooms: 12 York Rite room /conference room Occupancy: 8-1,000 Occupancy: 200-750 ARC PAVILION Food Service: Food Service: ARCPAVILION.ORG Full–Service catering provided by AS No, full restaurant–style kitchen is 2020 Park Ave Conference Services available (530) 891-5865 Technology: Technology: Meeting Rooms: 1 State of the art technical facility, “smart Some audio/visual equipment to rent Occupancy: Up to 240 classrooms” Food Service: CHICO WOMEN’S CLUB A restaurant style kitchen is part of the CHICO AREA RECREATION & WWW.CHICOWOMENSCLUB.ORG rental area including tables, plates and PARK DISTRICT (CARD) 592 E 3rd Avenue flatware. No glassware. WWW.CHICOREC.COM (530) 894-1978 545 Vallombrosa Ave Meeting Rooms: Convention & THE ARROYO ROOM (530) 895-4711 Meeting Facilities 131 W. 1st Street Meeting Rooms: 3 locations: CARD Occupancy: Up to 220 depending on (530) 894-1930 Center, Pleasant Valley Recreation seating style Meeting Rooms: Yes Center, Dorothy F. Johnson Center Food Service: Occupancy: Up to 200 Technology: No, full service kitchen is available Food Service: PA system at CARD Center & Dorothy Technology: Kitchen – Caterer’s Prep Johnson Center; not at Pleasant Valley. PA system

Business Spotlight SAFEPATH PRODUCTS WWW.SAFEPATHPRODUCTS.COM IN CHICO: Since 1994 PRODUCT: ADA compliant transition CHICO EXPERIENCE: “We use waste tire and truck rubber to manufacture transition ramps and sidewalk repair systems. products from recycled materials Operating in Chico’s Recycling Zone made it possible to FUN FACT: It’s not fun, but it’s a fact: reduce our feedstock costs through CalRecycle’s TIP tire 2.8 million elderly Americans are grant and to apply for loans to grow our business.” injured in falls each year. Safepath Timothy Vander Heiden, CEO Products aims to reduce that figure.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 43 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM BUSINESS RESOURCES

Conference Facilities cont. MANZANITA PLACE RAMADA INN WWW.MANZANITAPLACE.COM WWW.RAMADA.COM 1705 Manzanita Ave 685 Manzanita Ct (530) 343-5617 (530) 345-2491 GRAND BALLROOM ON BROADWAY Meeting Rooms: 2 Meeting Rooms: 8 242 Broadway St Occupancy: Up to 700 Food Service: (530) 899-8331 Food Service: Full–Service Catering Full service catering Technology: Meeting Rooms: Available from 12pm Full service kitchen 35mm Slide Projector, Cable Modem, Occupancy: Up to 274 DVD Player, Digital Projector, Flip Chart Food Service: and Markers, LCD Projector, Lectern, Catering, in–house PANIGHETTI’S EATERY WWW.PANIGHETTIS.COM Microphone, Modem Lines, Overhead Technology: Projector, VCR, Whiteboard PA system 2760 Esplanade, Ste 100 (530) 809-1640 HOTEL DIAMOND Meeting Rooms: 1 HOTELDIAMONDCHICO.COM Occupancy: Up to 50 people 220 West 4th St. Food Service: Full service catering (530) 893-3100 Source: Chico Chamber of Commerce; Super Yellow Technology: Pages; Local telephone book; Respective providers, May Meeting Rooms: 2 Overhead projector, wireless Internet 2016. Occupancy: Call for details Food Service: Catering Dept. (on-site) Technology: Call for details

Business Spotlight

GOLDEN VALLEY BANK GOLDENVALLEYBANK.COM

IN CHICO: Since 2006 SERVICE: Local community banking FUN FACT: You can purchase Organic Golden Valley Coffee at Bidwell Perk, made especially for Golden Valley Bank. CHICO EXPERIENCE: “I was born and raised in Chico, graduated from PV and Chico State. After 20 years in banking, I opened a new community bank in Chico using contacts local- ly. After 10 years I am happy to say that not only are we financially successful, but we are an important community player. There really is opportunity in Chico to build great careers.” Mark Francis, President & CEO

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 44 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Utilities

Sustainability Comes Naturally

With so many sunny days and Chico’s flat terrain, solar energy plays a LOOKING FOR A significant role in powering businesses, residences, and public facilities. UNIQUE NATURE California’s target of producing 50% of its electricity from renewable WALK? sources by 2030 has resulted in many incentive programs for installing energy efficient systems. A few projects in and around Chico include: Take a stroll at Chico’s water treatment plant. • Sierra Nevada Brewing Company — Oft-recognized sustainable It’s a popular spot for practices go well beyond its 10,751 solar panels, to include natural birdwatching, particularly gas microturbine, on-site wastewater treatment facility, and more. in the winter. The City • Butte College — Became the first “grid positive” college in 2011, used grant funds to create employing 25,000 solar panels with a capacity of 6.4 million kWh. a wildlife sanctuary with • City of Chico — Installed one of the nation’s largest solar arrays at a native plants and an ADA accessible trail. A bird blind wastewater treatment plant, as well as a 335kW co-generator that was added by the Audubon uses methane produced at the plant. Additional arrays are placed Society. Go to the Chico around town; notably at the bus stop and park structure. Water Pollution Control Additional Resources: California Energy Commission, www.energy.ca.gov/renewables/; Chico Sustainability Task Force, Plant at 4827 Chico River chicosustainability.org. Road and follow signs to the Oxidation Ponds. ELECTRICITY AND NATURAL GAS

PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY www.pge.com (800 ) 448 - 4743 PG&E provides electricity and natural gas to Chico businesses and resi- dents. Their economic development staff will work with your company on location incentives, labor costs and supply, transportation and commu- nications infrastructure, real estate costs and availability, fees and taxes. For businesses, PG&E offers: Sandhill cranes spotted at the • Economic development rate incentive Oxidation Ponds. • Custom rate analysis • Detailed cost and reliability analysis • Bundled and unbundled natural gas service

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 45 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM UTILITIES

Business Spotlight

PACIFIC GAS & ELECTRIC IN CHICO: Since 1905 WWW.PGE.COM SERVICE: Electricity and natural gas provider CHICO EXPERIENCE: PG&E has nearly 400 employees headquartered FUN FACT: In their 1905 formation, in the Chico area. Not only do their employees give back to the com- PG&E merged with three local util- munity through their employee volunteerism program, but their Better ities founded in the 1800s: Chico Together Giving Program supports deserving local organizations and Gas and Electric Company, Chico efforts that help power life for their customers. In 2016 alone, PG&E Gas Company, and the Chico employees volunteered over 600 hours of their time and the company Gas, Electric Power and Lighting made significant charitable investments in the Chico community. Company.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 46 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM UTILITIES

WATER & SEWER SOLID WASTE BUTTE REGIONAL HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE FACILITY WWW.CHICO.CA.US (530) 879-2352 CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE NEAL ROAD LANDFILL 1110 M AR AUDE R , C HICO WWW.CALWATER.COM WWW.BUTTECOUNTY.NET (530) 893-6300 (530) 879-2350 Accepts household cleaners, automotive SOURCE: Ground water 1023 Neal Road care products, garden care and pest CAPACITY: 25.5 MDG CAPACITY: 20.8M cu. yd remaining control products, paint related items, PEAK DEMAND: N/A electronic waste, household batteries, fluorescent lights, aerosol cans, etc. CITY OF CHICO WATER POLLUTION CONTROL PLANT WWW.CHICO.CA.US (530) 894-4300 MANUFACTURERS: DO YOU REUSE WASTE IN PROCESS: Secondary treatment MENTION RMDZ (CALL-OUT BLOCK) activated sludge YOUR PRODUCTION PROCESS? CAPACITY (PER YR): 12 MGD You may qualify for grants, loans, and marketing assistance PEAK DEMAND: N/A through the The Chico/North Butte County Recycling Market Development Zone. Read more in “Business Resources.”

Sources: Respective service providers, May 2016.

Business Spotlight

CALIFORNIA WATER SERVICE WWW.CALWATER.COM

IN CHICO: Since 1926

PRODUCT: Water utility service

FUN FACT: From three small water companies in Chico, Cal Wa­ ter has grown to serve more than 90 communities.

CHICO EXPERIENCE: Cal Water serves about 102,200 people through 29,400 service con- nections in Chico and Hamilton City. To meet the needs of its Chico District customers, Cal Water utilizes 68 wells to pump an average of 2.7 million gallons of groundwater per day, which is delivered through 380 miles of pipeline, eight storage tanks, and six booster pumps.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 47 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM UTILITIES

TELECOM PROVIDERS

NAME CONTACT SERVICES www.a-bcomm.com A B Communications Answering service, live operator, voice mail, VR Technologies (530) 327-2100 Local & long distance, high–speed Internet, teleconferencing, www.att.com AT&T Multi–protocol Label Switching (MPLS) IP VPNs: Network– (800) 799-5323 based solutions www.atscommunications.com ATS Communications Inc. Voice & data IP/Network services and Web hosting (530) 894-1600 carpiotelephone.com Telephone systems installation & repair; networking; coaxial Carpio Telephone Service (530) 514-8255 cabling www.century-networks.com Century Executone Voice and data network design and traffic provisioning (530) 896-1222 Christensen & Kern Telephone & voice mail systems; computer network cabling and (530) 343-5305 Telephone Services VOIP www.comtecsys.com SMB voice networks; data networks; messaging; structured Com Tec Telephone & Data (530) 894-3370 cabling and connectivity my.xfinity.com Internet, voice and TV; Large, medium and small business Comcast Xfinity (800) 266-2278 services www.digitalpath.com wireless broadband network; voice and data plans with Digital Path (800) 676 -7284 higher speeds Telephone systems, messaging and voice mail; wireless www.gaynortelesys.com Gaynor Telesystems solutions; CCTV cameras/surveillance; light signaling; data (530) 895-8442 cabling www.mghenterprises.com M G H Enterprises Telecommunications infrastructure (530) 894-2537 www.metropcs.com Cellular service provider, phone & devices, long distance Metro PCS (530) 879-9300 service www.norcalwireless.com Norcal Wireless (AT&T) Regional AT&T retailer (products and services) (530) 895-8195 www.sprint.com Phones & devices; Nextel Direct Connect ®; mobile broadband; Sprint PCS (530) 566-1600 mobile e–mail; GPS & mobile applications and IP voice & data www.quorumtech.net Networking, enterprise infrastructure, wireless technologies, Quorum Technologies (530) 924-4071 mobile apps www.t-mobile.com T Mobile Cellular service provider; Internet & email; messaging; (530) 566-9376 thetelephoneman.net Business & residential phone systems; structured cabling; copper The Telephone Man (530) 893-1510 & fiber optic cabling; data networking www.verizonwireless.com Verizon Wireless Cellular service provider, long distance & local service, phones (530) 892-6900 & devices, Internet (FIOS, high–speed & dial–up), FIOS TV (530) 893-1000 www.vninc.com VOIP phone systems; messaging & communications; network Vistanet (530) 891-8555 consulting & design; LAN & WAN assessment westelcommunications.com Business telecommunications; structured cabling/cable repair; Westel Communications (530) 897-0200 wireless/digital/VOIP/ paging and cellular signal enhancement Sources: Chico Chamber of Commerce Business Directory; YellowPages.com; local phonebook, and respective linked websites, May 2016 and March 2017.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 48 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Transportation

Accessible Hub for Commerce

Located on Hwy 99, Chico is 90 miles north of Sacramento and WHAT’S THAT SPELL? 20 miles east of I-5, the primary route between California and Wash- These successive streets ington. As the most populous city within a 80-mile radius, Chico serves were part of John Bidwell’s as a hub for retail, education and health services. original town layout.

Companies — particularly those with headquarters in Silicon Valley — find that Chico is just the right distance from the “mothership” for satellite operations. Niche market manufacturers also find the location to be strategic for hiring highly productive talent and reaching critical markets while enjoying a lower operating cost.

Locally, the City has invested in measures to ease congestion and ensure safety for all modes of transportation. These include roundabouts throughout the city and new bike lanes downtown. CalTrans recently wid- ened the busiest portion of the freeway (Hwy 99) between E. First Ave. and E. Eighth/Ninth streets (Hwy 32) to three lanes in each direction, and Hwy 32 has also been widened and improved near the freeway intersection.

FedEx shipping center is located at the Chico Municipal Airport.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 49 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION MAP

Redding

32 Chico Reno

99 5 20 80

505 Sacramento 101 DISTANCE FROM CHICO 80 CITY MILES DRIVE TIME 5 Sacramento, CA 87 1:03 Oakland, CA 171 2:46 San Francisco, CA 176 2:53 Reno, NV 169 3:07 Oakland San Francisco San Jose, CA 206 3:20 580 Los Angeles, CA 470 7:17 Portland, OR 492 7:57 Boise, ID 593 11:52 Las Vegas, NV 617 10:05 San Jose Seattle, WA 664 10:40 Salt Lake City, UT 687 10:04 Find more maps in the Demographic and Work- Phoenix, AZ 742 12:42 force sections. Distances and times: randmcnally.com, May 2016.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 50 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM TRANSPORTATION

AIR SERVICE AIRPORTS

CHICO MUNICIPAL AIRPORT Chico Municipal Airport (CIC) CHICO AIRPORT CONTACTS: DISTANCE: 0 miles Airport Operations: Airport Manager (530) 896-7216 RUNWAY: 6,724 x 150 Airport Business Park: City Manager’s office (530) 896-7201 ACRES: 1,475 CONTROL TOWER: Yes Chico Municipal Airport operates adjacent to the city-owned Airport Business Park on the north side of town. Several aviation related busi- SACRAMENTO INTERNATIONAL (SMF) nesses are located at the airport, including Air Spray’s fleet of aerial DISTANCE: 90 miles firefighting planes. Beale AFB has taken advantage of the airport’s long RUNWAY: 8,601 x 150 runway (6,724 ft) to practice takeoffs and landings, including the famed ACRES: 6,000 U2 spy plane. Commercial flights were discontinued in 2014. Since then, CONTROL TOWER: Yes the City has hired an airport manager and is exploring ways to attract SACRAMENTO EXECUTIVE (SAC) a new provider. A local community group, JetChico, presented plans to DISTANCE: 94 miles expand and upgrade the terminal and has identified a developer willing RUNWAY: 5,503 x 150 to build and lease back the facility should an air carrier be identified. ACRES: 540 CONTROL TOWER: Yes

Commercial Air Travel ADDITIONAL AIRPORTS Sacramento International Airport, 90 minutes south of Chico, is notable San Francisco International Airport (SFO) for easy access and lack of congestion. Most major carriers provide DISTANCE: 183 miles cross-country and international flights from two terminals at SAC. Its Oakland International Airport location on I-5, north of Sacramento, allows you to reach the airport (OAK) from Chico without driving all the way into Sacramento. Private shuttle DISTANCE: 176 miles services are available between Chico and SMF. Chico residents also use Sources: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration Airport Master Records as posted the San Francisco and Oakland airports. on GCR Inc.; Distances: Rand McNally, May 2016.

FOREIGN TRADE ZONE Do you import or export prod- ucts or components? Federally designated Foreign Trade Zones allow importers and exporters to defer, reduce, or eliminate U.S. Customs duties or excise taxes; duty is not paid until goods are withdrawn from the foreign trade zone for domestic sale in the U.S. The 1,500-acre Chico Municipal Airport Region is part of FTZ #143. If your business might benefit, contact the Chico City Manager’s office for details: (530) 896-7201. Chico Air Museum is housed at the Chico Airport.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 51 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM TRANSPORTATION

RAIL SERVICE PARCEL CARRIERS Freight Union Pacific, serving 23 states in the Western U.S., operates a branch FEDERAL EXPRESS line through Chico, with several trains passing through Chico daily. UP’s WWW.FEDEX.COM J.R. Davis Yard, the largest intermodal rail facility on the West Coast, is in LASTEST DROP/PICK-UP: 5:00 pm Mon–Fri Roseville (85 miles south). 3:30 pm Saturday EARLIEST DELIVERY: Passenger 8:30 am The Amtrak station at 450 Orange Street is about 5 blocks from down- UPS town and Chico State. Northbound (Portland/Seattle) and southbound WWW.UPS.COM LASTEST DROP/PICK-UP: (Los Angeles) trains pick up passengers nightly on the Coast Starlight 5:00 pm Mon–Fri line. Additionally, Amtrak’s California Thruway bus service connects n/a Saturday passengers to Sacramento and San Francisco four times daily. EARLIEST DELIVERY: 8:30 am

GREYHOUND PACKAGE EXPRESS WWW.SHIPGREYHOUND.COM LASTEST DROP/PICK-UP: 8 am – 6:30 pm Mon–Fri1 8 am – 4:00 pm Sat EARLIEST DELIVERY: 8 am – 6:30 pm Mon–Fri1 8 am – 4:00 pm Sat

Sources: Representative service providers, May 2016.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

BUTTE REGIONAL TRANSIT (B-LINE) & PARATRANSIT WWW.BLINETRANSIT.COM (530) 879-2468 OPERATOR: Transdev Bus Service Area: Butte County and the cities of Biggs, Chico, Gridley, Oroville, Paradise, Magalia

Sources: B-Line & B-Line Paratransit, Butte County Association of Governments; Transdev, May 2016.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 52 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM TRANSPORTATION

NEAREST SEAPORTS PORT OF OAKLAND WWW.PORTOFOAKLAND.COM (510) 627-1100 MOTOR FREIGHT & DISTANCE: 180 miles PORT OF WEST SACRAMENTO ƒƒ 20 deepwater berths CONTRACT CARRIERS WWW.PORTOFSACRAMENTO.COM ƒƒ 35 container crates (including 31 (Partial List) (916) 371-8800 Post–Panamax type) DISTANCE: 105 miles ƒƒ Foreign Trade Zone ED BROWN TRUCKING INC ƒ ƒ 50 Trucking companies service the ƒƒ Warehouses and intermodal facilities (530) 893-8595 port ƒƒ Channel deepening project to be ƒƒ 200 Railcar terminals (BNSF, UP, completed in 2007 ƒƒ Hauls Machinery Sierra Northern) ƒƒ Served by Interstate 80 ƒƒ 6 Trucks, 2 Tractors, 2 Trailers ƒƒ Paved open storage, covered ƒƒ 9,000 acres of maritime property ƒƒ 6 Drivers warehouse, domed warehouse, flat ƒƒ 2,600 acres for aviation storage J&J TRANSPORT ƒƒ General cargo, bulk, grain, PORT OF SAN FRANCISCO (530) 345-8700 containers WWW.SFPORT.COM ƒƒ Hauls Fresh Produce, General ƒƒ Foreign Trade Zone, West (415) 274 - 0400 Freight, Meat, Dry Bulk, Refrig- Sacramento Enterprise Zone DISTANCE: 184 miles erated Food, Beverages and ƒƒ 480 ac. of maritime property Paper Products ƒƒ 7,000 sq. ft. of enclosed storage ƒƒ Five berths, on–dock rail, acres of paved land for staging cargo ƒƒ 3 Trucks, 3 drivers ƒƒ Over 550,000 sq. ft. of covered stor- PORT OF STOCKTON age for weather sensitive cargo NORTHGATE EXPRESS WWW.PORTOFSTOCKTON.COM ƒƒ Cranes capable of working both (530) 342-6504 (209) 946-0246 breakbulk and containers DISTANCE: 152 miles ƒƒ Hauls General Freight, Liquids ƒƒ 624 reefer outlets Gases ƒƒ Warehouse and storage handling ƒƒ Harbor and cargo service facili- ƒƒ 10 Trucks, 2 Tractors, 3 Trailers facilities for both dry and liquid bulk ties are located near our terminals ƒƒ 11 D r i ve r s materials offering easy access to tug and barge ƒƒ Facilities and equipment for container- companies ized and breakbulk cargo ƒƒ heavy lift crane services WHITCHURCH & SON ƒƒ Tugs available ƒƒ Foreign Trade Zone (530) 342-9342 ƒƒ Convenient railway and interstate ƒƒ Cold storage / warehousing ƒƒ Hauls General Freight, Lumber, access ƒƒ CFS facilities Building Materials, Drywall ƒƒ Customs services available, Foreign ƒƒ Full service ship repair ƒƒ 13 Trucks, 6 drivers Trade Zone ƒƒ Specialized, flatbed, or heavy ƒƒ Average low tide channel depth is haul 37 feet ƒƒ Average high tide channel depth is 40 feet YRC FREIGHT YRC.COM ƒƒ 2,000 acres, 7 million sq. ft. of USDA Sources: California Association of Port Authorities; respective service providers; Rand McNally, May 2016. (800) 610-6500 approved storage DISTANCE: Orland (20 miles); Sacramento (43 miles) ƒƒ National LTL ƒƒ Domestic Ocean ƒƒ Spot Volume ƒƒ Reverse Logistics ƒƒ White Glove ƒƒ Hazardous Materials ƒƒ Custom Projects ƒƒ Freeze Protection ƒƒ Specialized Freight Services ƒƒ Sealed Trailers

Sources: Quick Transport Solutions; Rand McNally; Yellow Pages; respective service providers, May 2016. UPS shipping center on Otterson Dr. in south Chico.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 53 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM TRANSPORTATION

ABOVE (L): New bike lines lead into downtown from the BELOW: Check out the Esplanade just north of downtown. Chico State area. This tree-lined thoroughfare was planned by Chico’s ABOVE (R): Butte College Chico Center features charging founder, John Bidwell, and is most spectacular when stations. autumn leaves are turning. © Chico Enterprise Chico Record ©

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 54 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Government

Where People Know Your Name WHO TO CONTACT For businesses, Chico falls in a sweet spot — it’s large enough to provide adequate support and small enough that you can be on a first name BUSINESS LICENSES basis with city officials. All departments have made notable efforts Finance Office at community outreach. The City participates in Team Chico Business (530) 879-7320 Walks and holds forums to address needs of the business community BUILDING PERMITS and residents. Building and Development Services Chico is the largest of five cities in Butte County, representing 41% of 530) 879-6700 the county population — more if you include residents living adjacent to the city. The county seat is Oroville, approximately 20 miles south- PLANNING APPLICATIONS AND FORMS, ZONING AND east. Chico operates as a charter city with a city council-city manager LAND USE style administration. Seven council members are elected at large from Contact: Planning Services throughout the city, serving staggered four-year terms, and council mem- (530) 879-6800 bers choose a mayor from amongst themselves. The City Council meets RECYCLING MARKET on the first and third Tuesday evenings each month. DEVELOPMENT ZONE (RMDZ) Contact: Public Works (530) 896-7241

BUSINESS LOCATION / EXPANSION OR QUESTIONS

Mark Orme City Manager (530) 896-7201 [email protected] Chris Constantin Assistant City Manager (530) 896-7202 [email protected] Debbie Collins Management Analyst (530) 896-7216 [email protected]

Rooftop mural commemorating Chico’s first town hall can be seen from the current City Council chambers.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 55 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM GOVERNMENT

TAX PROFILE – STATE OF CALIFORNIA TAX BASIS RATE AGENCY

Corporation 8.84% Corporate Income and Net income apportioned to S-Corp 1.5% Franchise Tax Board Franchise Tax California Bank/Financial Corp 10.84% www.ftb.ca.gov S-Bank/Financial S-Corp 3.5%

Receipts from sale or lease of Board of Equalization Sales and Use Tax 7. 25 % taxable items www.boe.ca.gov

Assessed value of real and Butte Co. Assessor personal property, not incl. buttecounty.net Property Tax 1.02–1.19%1 business inventory or personal Board of Equalization effects www.boe.ca.gov

Employment Development First $7,000 of wages per Unemployment Insurance 3.4% to 6.2% Department employee per year www.edd.ca.gov

Workers’ Compensation Variable depending on Dept of Industrial Relations Payroll and occupation Insurance occupation classification www.dir.ca.gov

Franchise Tax Board Personal Income Tax Taxable personal income 1.0% to 9.55% www.ftb.ca.gov

Employment Development Disability Insurance First $104,378 of wages 0.9% (paid by employee) Department www.edd.ca.gov

Finished Goods, Raw None None None Material, Inventory Tax

Mineral Severance Tax None None None

Inheritance Tax None None None

Employment Development First $7,000 of wages per Employment Training Tax 0.1% Department employee per year www.edd.ca.gov

Source: 2016 California Employers’ Guide (DE-44); respective organizations, May 2016; Board of Equalization; Butte Co. Auditor, AUD70-2360-020 Multi-Year Tax Rates.pdf (2016 rates), January 2017. (1) State Property Tax is limited by law to 1% (Prop. 13); local voter-approved bonds, assessments, etc. raise the total percentage slightly, depending on location.

TAX & LICENSE REQUIREMENTS – CITY OF CHICO TAX BASIS RATE AGENCY / PHONE

Business License1 Employees $26 - $81 + $1 for every Chico Finance Office employee over 25 (530) 879-7320 Units Flat Rate or Gross Receipts www.chico.ca.us

Downtown Parking & Business Employees, business type and $7 - $101 + $1 for every Improvement Area location employee over 25

Transient Occupancy Tax Revenue 9%

Source: City of Chico Finance Office, May 2016; (1) See Agency website for applications/formula worksheets.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 56 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM GOVERNMENT

STATE TAX CREDITS

Your business may be able to reduce its tax burden with one or more of SALES AND USE TAX EXCLUSION, these incentives offered by the State of California. Qualifications vary MANUFACTURING AND R&D WWW.BOE.CA.GOV but are generally based on either the type of business, type of investment Manufacturers and qualifying research made by the business, or new hires. and development firms may qualify for partial exemption of sales and use tax For an overview of state tax incentives for businesses, go to the state’s on purchases and leases of manufactur- GO-Biz portal: businessportal.ca.gov/Incentives ing and R & D equipment. Contact your tax professional or the California State Board of Equalization to determine eligibility.

Federal Tax Credit CALIFORNIA COMPETES TAX MANUFACTURERS’ INVESTMENT CREDIT CREDIT WORK OPPORTUNITY TAX WWW.BUSINESS.CA.GOV WWW.FTB.CA.GOV CREDIT (WOTC) Five-year tax credit that businesses Manufacturers can receive a 6% credit WWW.DOLETA.GOV apply for in advance through a com- for acquisition or construction of qual- (866) 593-0173 California Office petitive application process. Califor- ified property, including real property WOTC is a federal tax credit offered nia’s income tax credit is available to and some equipment. through the U.S. Department of Labor businesses that expand in or relocate to to employers who hire from certain California. There are no geographic or NEW EMPLOYMENT CREDIT groups; i.e. those facing barriers to industry sector restrictions. The income WWW.FTB.CA.GOV employment. Employers can reduce tax credit application is submitted The New Employment Credit (NEC) is their income tax liability by $1,200 to online, the terms are negotiated with $9,600 depending on the hires. GO-Biz, and then the credit is approved available to qualified taxpayers that by the California Competes Tax Credit hire qualified full-time employees. The Committee. credit may be up to 35% of qualifying wages. The NEC applies in designated census tracts with high unemployment CALIFORNIA FILM & TELEVISION and poverty (a map is available on the TAX CREDIT FTB website). Qualifying wages are WWW.FILM.CA.GOV those exceeding 150% but not more Film and television productions featuring than 350% of the minimum wage. California are eligible to apply for this tax incentive that encourages still-image SALES AND USE TAX EXCLUSION, and entertainment programs to shoot in ALTERNATIVE ENERGY AND California. The program offers a variety TRANSPORTATION of tax credit amounts for different types WWW.TREASURER.CA.GOV RELATED and scales of productions. ? Manufacturers that promote alternative INFO energy and advanced transportation CALIFORNIA RESEARCH CREDIT may be eligible to receive a sales tax Hiring & training new WWW.FTB.CA.GOV exclusion from both state and local employees? You may be Reduces sales and franchise tax for sales tax collection on equipment taxpayers engaged in qualified re- purchases and qualifying activities. Ap- reimbursed for hiring and search activities. The credit can reduce plications are accepted on an ongoing training expenses. expenditures by 24% of basic research basis and are considered at the Califor- See Butte Community payments, 15% of excess research nia Alternative Energy and Advanced Employment Center expenses. There are several differences Transportation Financing Authority between California’s and the federal (CAEATFA) board meetings within 60 under Hiring & Training tax credit. The California Franchise Tax days of the completed application. The Resources, pg 37 Board provides a four-part test to deter- statute limits exclusions to $100 million mine which activities qualify. in each calendar year.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 57 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

Chico creek winds through Upper Bidwell Park and into downtown Chico, where it is passes through the Chico State campus.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 58 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM Living in Chico

A Place to Thrive KEY The social spirit of our vibrant community is evident at every Farmers ! TAKEAWAY Market (there are a least four), Chico Heat game, and Friday Night Concert. If you’re the kind of person who gets your best ideas walking Half the cost of in the park or riding your bike to work, Chico is your place. If you like to San Francisco mix with friendly, intelligent people, yet you don’t want to be lost in the Houses from Mid-Century crowd, Chico is for you. If you dream of owning a home, it will be more to New Urban affordable here than in many California locations. You can work close to School choice where you live, leaving more time to enjoy the rest of your life, and there Healthcare hub of are plenty of things to do. Our biggest attraction — Bidwell Park — is free. the North State Fun people …and Bidwell Park! COST OF LIVING

San Francisco, CA

Los Angeles, CA

Seattle, WA This index compares the relative cost of living in different locations. Portland, OR Using the United States as the base

Chico, CA location (i.e. a value of 100), an index value of 120 means that Salt Lake City, UT the cost of living in that particular Sacramento, CA community is 20 percent higher than in the base location. Chico, at 123, Boise, ID is higher than the base but much Reno, NV lower than the San Francisco Bay area and most other West Coast Las Vegas, NV urban centers. Phoenix, AZ

0 50 100 150 200 250

Source: Sperling’s BestPlaces, 2014 data. The total of all cost of living categories is weighted as follows: 30% housing, 15% groceries, 10% transportation, 6% utilities, 7% health care, and 32% miscellaneous (clothing, services, entertainment); state and local taxes are not included, May 2016.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 59 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

HOUSING

Affordable housing is a big advantage in Chico, and the range of styles within a 5-mile radius is equally attractive. Your housing options include established neighborhoods within walking distance of downtown and Bidwell Park, luxurious executive homes at a fraction of Bay Area prices, mid-century ranch houses on large lots, new urban developments integrating homes, parks, and commercial districts in a compact footprint, and energy-efficient, solar-pow- ered neighborhoods. Most of the newer develop- ments have playgrounds and parks incorporated into the plan, and some have bike paths.

In December there are whole neighborhoods that stage brilliant holiday displays, and one family has hosted a neighborhood Easter parade around the Neighborhood amenities. block for more than 20 years.

Business Spotlight

NEW URBAN BUILDERS WWW.NEWURBANBUILDERS.COM

IN CHICO: Since 2001 PRODUCT: Developer and builder of traditional neighborhoods FUN FACT: Their “cat slide” roof (photo) was modeled after several 1920s Chico homes near Bidwell Park. CHICO EXPERIENCE: “Chico is an archetype of the great American college town in the midst of an agricultural region. I was immediately charmed by its many great neighborhoods which inspired me to build the ‘old neighborhood new again.’ ” Tom DiGiovanni, President

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 60 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

HOUSING PRICE RANGE

EXECUTIVE: $380,500 TO $2.15 MILLION

MID-LEVEL: $275,000 TO $385,000

STARTER: $149,500 TO $187,750

$0 $0.5M $1.0M $1.5M $2.0M Source: Compiled from trulia.com, Housing Market Trends, May 2016. EXECUTIVE: 4+ bedrooms, 2,000+ SF, 0-5 yrs old;MID-LEVEL:3-4 bedrooms, 1,200+ SF, 0-10 yrs old; STARTER: 1 or 2 bedrooms, 800-1,000 SF, 0-50 yrs old.

RENTAL COSTS SINGLE FAMILY HOMES APARTMENTS / TOWNHOMES

4-BEDROOM: $2,170 3-BEDROOM: $1,515 3-BEDROOM: $1,475 2-BEDROOM: $1,250 2-BEDROOM: $1.130 1-BEDROOM: $750

$0 $0.5K $1.0K $1.5K $2.0K $0 $0.5K $1.0K $1.5K

Source: Compiled from trulia.com, Housing Market Trends, May 2016.

Business Spotlight

BUILD.COM WWW.BUILD.COM

IN CHICO: Since Oct 2000 (orig. as FaucetDirect)

SERVICE: Online retailer for home improvement products

FUN FACT: Chris Friedland was 13 years old when he started college at College of the Siskiyous.

CHICO EXPERIENCE: “We have the 13th largest municipal park in the nation, being 3,670 acres and 11 miles in length. We are centrally located between the Sierra Nevadas and the California coast with the Sacramento River in our backyard. A typical work commute is 15 minutes so you do not have to spend 25% of your day in a car instead you can with your friends and family!” Chris Friedland, Founder & CEO

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 61 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

HOUSING CHOICES

COMPACT URBAN LIFESTYLE NEIGHBORHOODS ƒƒ Doe Mill (Bruce & 20th St) ƒƒ Meriam Park (Bruce & 20th St) ƒƒ Westside Place (Nord Ave) ƒƒ Park Forest (E 8th St)

CALIFORNIA BUNGALOWS, NEW AND OLD ƒƒ Doe Mill (Bruce & 20th St) ƒƒ Park Forest (E 8th St near Chico Nature Center) ƒƒ South of Bidwell Park (Woodland to Humboldt, downtown to Hwy 99) ƒƒ Barber Neighborhood (south of Little Chico Creek, west of Park Ave) ƒƒ Chapmantown Area (west of Park Ave)

SUBURBAN FAMILY, MID-CENTURY TO NEW ƒƒ The Avenues (east and west of Esplanade, to Manzanita Ave & Hwy 32) ƒƒ Amber Grove (off Esplanade near Eaton Rd) ƒƒ California Park ƒƒ Big Chico Creek Estates and others off West Sacramento Ave ƒƒ Areas off Glenwood Ave

UPSCALE, INCLUDING CLUBS AND GATED ƒƒ Butte Creek Country Club ƒƒ Canyon Oaks Country Club ƒƒ Songbird Ln and areas off Garner and Keefer Rd ƒƒ East end of 8th Street near Five Mile (Bidwell Park)

PARKSIDE AND WATERSIDE ƒƒ Vallombrosa, north of Bidwell Park ƒƒ Woodland Ave and E. 8th, south of Bidwell Park (near One Mile / Sycamore Pool) ƒƒ California Park (small lake at edge of foothills)

RANCHETTES ƒƒ Areas at the edge of town, including the vicinities of Bell Rd, Nord Ave, Rose Ave, 5th St, Dayton Rd, Meridian, and Garner

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 62 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

K-12 EDUCATION GOLD RIBBON SCHOOLS The Chico Unified School District educates over Chico High School (2017) 12,000 students from Chico and the adjacent unin- Bidwell Junior High (2017) corporated areas of Butte County. CORE Butte Charter School (2017) Chico schools are filled with teachers who share a Sierra View Elementary School (2016) passion for education and provide children with an Inspire School of Arts & Sciences (2015) exemplary student experience. From maker spaces California Department of Education honors high and robotics to second language fluency, arts, achieving schools each year, alternating between music and more, your student will find a nurturing elementary and secondary schools. An additional and energy fueled experience designed to support 12 received earlier “Distinguished School” honors. students from Pre-K–12 for college, career and life. Source: California Department of Education, April 2017.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND TEST SCORES

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS ENROLLMENT AVG CLASS SIZE TEST SCORES* Blue Oak Charter (K-8) 430 22 740 Chapman Elementary (K-5) 351 16 749 Chico Country Day Charter (K-8) 565 23 844 Citrus Avenue Elementary (K-5) 328 22 718 Core Butte Charter (K-12) 678 22 781 Emma Wilson Elementary (K-5) 609 23 790 Hooker Oak Elementary (K-8) 366 24 797 Little Chico Creek (K-5) 541 25 799 Loma Vista (PK-12) (Special Ed) 22 11 n/a Marigold Elementary (K-5) 556 26 819 McManus (John A.)Elementary (K-5) 521 24 730 Neal Dow Elementary (K-5) 386 25 836 Nord Country (K-8) 140 20 780 Oakdale (K-12) (Alternative) 92 40 531 Parkview Elementary (K-5) 385 24 809 Rosedale Elementary (K-5) 586 24 787 Pivot Charter School North Valley (6 -12) 61 11 n/a Shasta Elementary (K-5) 696 26 849 Sierra View Elementary (K-5) 648 24 881 Wildflower Open Classroom (K-8) 133 22 n/a Source: National Center for Education Statistics: enrollment, average class size, 2014-2015 school year data; California Department of Education, Data Quest 2014-2015 school year data, graduation rates, test scores, April 2017.

*Specific test reference: Academic Progress Index (API) scores - Each school is assigned an API Growth target by the state, determined by calculating 5% of the difference between the Base API and 800, or a minimum of 5 point growth. Schools with APIs at or above 800 must maintain a minimum API of 800.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 63 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

Quality and Choice Pleasant Valley’s Viking football team won the state championship. Regional Occupational Programs One of CUSD’s greatest strengths is its wide variety (ROP) provide valuable career preparation for high of focused programs. Beyond the excellent neigh- schools students (see “Business Resources”). Butte borhood schools, parents can apply to have their College Connection gives high school students a children attend specialized programs including: head start on college by allowing them to complete • 2-Way Spanish Immersion (Rosedale) their senior year of high school at college through • Academics Plus (Sierra View) concurrent enrollment. • GATE (Parkview) • STEM (Parkview) Public Charter Schools • Thematic Learning (Hooker Oak) A strength of Chico is its diversity in K-12 education • Arts & Sciences (Inspire HS) options. Along with our outstanding public school • International Baccalaureate (Pleasant Valley HS) district you’ll find several public charters employing a variety of educational modalities. All of the high schools offer a host of AP courses to make your college-bound student competitive, and • Chico Country Day (K-8) of course there is a robust athletics program. In 2017, • Blue Oak Waldorf (K-8)

JUNIOR HIGH AND HIGH SCHOOL TEST SCORES

JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS ENROLLMENT AVG CLASS SIZE TEST SCORES* Academy for Change (7-12) (Alternative) 25 7 n/a Bidwell Junior High (6-8) 587 25 811 Chico Junior High (6-8) 639 23 841 Marsh Junior High (6-8) 581 25 840 Center of Alternative Learning (6-12) 33 20 n/a ENROLLMENT / HIGH SCHOOLS AVG CLASS SIZE GRADUATION RATE SAT/ACT SCORES Chico High (9-12) 1,769 (93%) 24 1,613 / 25 Fairview High (9-12) 231 (62%) 20 n/a Inspire School of Arts and Sciences (9-12) 443 (99%) 20 1,716 / n/a Pleasant Valley High (9-12) 1,792 (93%) 24 1,589 / 24 PRIVATE SCHOOL ENROLLMENT AVG CLASS SIZE TEST SCORES* Chico Christian School (PK-8) 422 17 n/a Chico Oaks Adventist School (K-8) 111 17 n/a Notre Dame School (K-8) 225 11 n/a Pleasant Valley Baptist (K-12) 51 7 n/a Rose Scott Learning Community (1-11) 22 6 n/a Source: National Center for Education Statistics: enrollment, average class size, 2014-2015 school year data; California Department of Education, Data Quest 2014-2015 school year data, graduation rates, test scores, April 2017.

*Specific test reference: Academic Progress Index (API) scores – Each school is assigned an API Growth target by the state, determined by calculating 5% of the difference between the Base API and 800, or a minimum of 5 point growth. Schools with APIs at or above 800 must maintain a minimum API of 800. SAT scores are out of a possible 2,400 (4 tests); ACT scores are out of a possible 36.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 64 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

• Wildflower Open Structure Classroom (K-8) Construction • CORE Butte Alternative Homeschool / Hybrid Chico Unified has undertaken some major construc- High School Education (K-12) tion projects in recent years to expand and improve • Sherwood Montessori (K-8) the learning facilities. Projects have included science • Nord Country School (K-8) labs (Chico Jr High and Marsh Jr High), Multipur- • Inspire High School of Arts & Sciences (9-12) pose Building (Marsh Jr. High), and improvements to the athletic fields (PV and CHS). Extensive renovation and expansion of elementary schools is planned. Private Schools Chico offers several options for those who prefer a private school environment. They include:

• Chico Christian School (PK-8) • Chico Oaks Adventist School (K-8) • Notre Dame Catholic School (K-8) • Pleasant Valley Baptist (K-12) • Rose Scott Learning Community (1-11) Chico Junior High science lab completed in 2016.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 65 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

HEALTH CARE

Chico residents are lucky to have nationally recognized health care and ADDITIONAL award winning physicians. PROVIDERS (a sampling) Enloe Medical Center offers comprehensive medical services housed AMPLA HEALTH CENTER. Migrant either in the main medical center or in one of the other 22 facilities farm workers and low-income. located throughout the community. The medical center has 298 beds NORTHERN VALLEY INDIAN HEALTH. and operates the FlightCare air ambulance service. Enloe is one of Tribal health clinics open to all. only two Level II trauma centers north of Sacramento and home to the CHICO IMMEDIATE CARE. Walk-in region’s only Level II neonatal intensive care unit. Other services include: clinic. • Cardiac surgery, heart care • Total joint replacement ENLOE PROMPT CARE. 2 Walk-in clinics. • Neurosurgery • Cancer center SHALOM FREE CLINIC. Free services • Orthopedics • Maternity care for low-income patients. • Bariatrics • Women’s services SKYPARK WALK-IN MEDICAL CENTER. Walk-in clinic. Enloe is one of the few California hospitals still locally governed. This en- sures many services are available from within our community providing convenient access, minimizing patient impact and improving the patient’s overall experience.

Business Spotlight

ENLOE MEDICAL CENTER IN CHICO: Since 1913 WWW.ENLOE.ORG SERVICE: Level II Trauma CHICO EXPERIENCE: “As the largest institution of its kind for many Center hundreds of square miles, we have a responsibility and an obliga- FUN FACT: Dr. N.T. Enloe’s first tion that transcends just providing healthcare. I think it’s a responsi- hospital was a 6-bed cabin bility that we can never forget and never take lightly.” serving lumbermen in the Mike Wiltermood, CEO/President foothills near Chico.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 66 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

PUBLIC SAFETY CRIME RATE PER 100,000 PEOPLE

CITY OF CHICO POLICE 7,000 WWW.CHICO.CA.US (530) 897-5801 Mike O’Brien, Chief of Police 5,250 # STATIONS: 1 OFFICERS PER 1000 PEOPLE: 1 SPECIAL UNITS: 3,500 ƒƒ Traffic Unit ƒƒ Patrol Unit ƒƒ Crisis Negotiations Team ƒƒ Special Weapons & Tactics 1,750 Team ƒƒ Crime Scene Investigators (CSIs) ƒƒ Hostage Negotiating Team 0 (HNT) Property Crime Violent Crime ƒƒ Butte Interagency Bomb Squad ƒƒ K-9 Program Chico Gridley Oroville Paradise Source: FBI Uniform Crime Reporting, Table 8 California Offenses Known to Law Enforcement, 2014 data, May 2016. CITY OF CHICO FIRE DEPARTMENT WWW.CHICO.CA.US (530) 897=3400 Bill Hack, Fire Chief CLIMATE 1 Note: Comfort Index measures STATIONS: 6 (4 currently in use) Jan Low/High: 37° / 59° F humidity and summer afternoon INSURANCE RATING: ISO 2 July Low/High:1 69° / 95° F temperatures to predict effects of (Sale of 1-10 with 1 being best; humidity on people. A higher value Prevailing Windspeed:1 6 mph / NNW indicates a more comfortable climate. rated by Insurance Services 3 Office) Annual Precipitation: 26.61 in. SPECIAL UNITS: 2 Sources: (1) Weather Underground; Elevation: 205 feet (2) Sperling’s Best Places, May 2016. ƒƒ Technical rescues Comfort Index:2 55 (3) U.S Climate Data, April 2017. ƒƒ Downing accidents ƒƒ Hazardous materials response

AVERAGE RAINFALL AND TEMPERATURES

100 5.00

75 3.75

50 2.50

25 1.25 (in) Rainfall Avg Avg Temperature (°F) Temperature Avg

0 0.00 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Avg. High (°F) Avg. Low (°F) Avg. Rainfall (in)

Source: usclimatedata.com, May 2016.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 67 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

THINGS TO DO IN BIDWELL PARK… Of all the things to do around Chico, indoors or out, we must start with our gem: Bidwell Park. Chico is smallish city with a huge city park. At Chico Creek Nature Center 3,670 acres, we mean huge. Community Observatory Children’s Playgrounds (5); Bidwell Park notably, Caper Acres In Lower Park you can take a drive, and mountain biking, horse-back riding, ride your bike or jog the 6-mile loop. swim holes, the Chico Community Secluded Picnic Spots along There are picnic spots along the creek Observatory, and a public golf course. the Creek and swimming areas at One Mile and There is disc golf at Hooker Oak Park Five Mile recreation areas. For young and at Peregrine Disc Golf off Highway Hiking Trails in Upper Park children, Caper Acres features Humpty 32. Upper Bidwell Park Hiking Tour: Cycling (road or trail) Dumpty and other fantasy play centers. This loop contains the most popular Hooker Oak Park and Wildwood Park trails on both sides of the park, B Trail Swimming (Sycamore Pool have additional playgrounds and picnic and Guardian Trail. You’ll find great and Five Mile) areas. Visit Chico Creek Nature Center views of the valley and the park itself. in the middle of Lower Park to see Total length is 14.2 miles. Wear sturdy Baseball Fields science exhibits and some live animals. shoes and bring your water-filled Klean Upper Park offers more rigorous hiking Kanteen. Disc Golf Municipal Golf Course

Business Spotlight

KLEAN KANTEEN WWW.KLEANKANTEEN.COM

IN CHICO: Since 2004 PRODUCT: Stainless steel beverage bottles FUN FACT: “Our parent company is our dad.“ CHICO EXPERIENCE: “Chico has always been such a welcoming and friendly community, and we grew up being part of that giving nature. We love to see our employees give back through our Volunteer Program, use their flexible time to play in our parks, and to simply be themselves every day.” Michelle Kalberer, Co-owner

Read a profile of Klean Kanteen at choosechico.com.

CHICO BY THE NUMBERS 68 WWW.CHOOSECHICO.COM LIVING IN CHICO

BIDWELL PARK

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Sports & Outdoor Recreation ƒƒ Senior Sports Chico State – The Wildcats Baseball ƒƒ Toddler sports team has brought home 2 Division II Chico is an active, sports loving College World Series titles and has community. Whether you’re eager SCHOOL SPORTS had 9 West Regional titles and College High School Sports – Our two largest World Series appearances. Wildcat to jump in and participate or high schools, Chico High and Pleas- Women’s Basketball has brought home cheer from the stands, we have ant Valley High, offer award winning 12 conference championships. plenty of options from which to competitive sports that are spectator friendly and thoroughly enjoyable. Each AQUATICS choose. football season, these two high schools With our hot summers, swimming is a meet in the Almond Bowl, a Chico way of life in Chico. If you prefer pools tradition nearly 50 years old. Wrestling, over local creeks and swim holes, here ORGANIZED SPORTS basketball, volleyball, soccer – Chico are a few programs to explore: Chico Area Recreation and Park District area schools have a tradition of success (CARD) provides a full range of quality and achievement. CARD programs range from water polo programs for the entire family. A few of and underwater hockey to swim team the athletic programs offered include: Butte College – The community college and lap fitness. needs a large trophy case. Most nota- ƒƒ Archery Chico Water Sprites offers private bly, the Roadrunner football team has ƒƒ Baseball/Softball lessons for children. The program’s roots won 2 national championships, 2 state ƒƒ Flag Football are grounded in Olympic swimming and championships and 28 bowl games. ƒƒ Soccer they believe in keeping kids engaged It’s home to 1 Super Bowl MVP (Aar- ƒƒ Fencing and moving. ƒƒ Volleyball on Rodgers) and 1 NFL Hall of Fame ƒƒ Track & Field Inductee (Larry Allen). Chico Aqua Jets is a year-round swim ƒƒ Tennis team run by the Chico Area Swim Association.

Business Spotlight

HERO CMO WWW.HEROCMO.COM

IN CHICO: Since 2014 SERVICE: Marketing & Customer Experience Consulting/Education FUN FACT: Interviewed by former Vice President Al Gore for his book Joined at the Heart CHICO EXPERIENCE: “My husband and I moved to Chico from LA in 2000. It’s our little slice of Americana. I value the close-knit business community and love being greeted by friendly, smiling faces wherever we go. Plus, it’s beautiful here and feeds our love of the outdoors.” Valerie Reddemann, Principal

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CYCLING Rim to Rim Trail Run ultramarathon SPRINT CAR RACING Chico is a cycling town. Both road isheld in June, featuring a half For four-wheel fans, sprint car races at warriors and trail riders will find an marathon, marathon, 50K and 50 mile Silver Dollar Speedway draw large abundance of cycling to fill your love ultramarathon. crowds at the weekly Friday night shows of two wheels. Two major cycling from early April through the end of Bidwell Classic Half Marathon, 5K events held in Chico are the Wildflower August. The Gold Cup Championship and Relay, is a fast, flat, paved course Century and the Bidwell Bump. is typically in November, bringing that runs throughout lower Bidwell park. thousands to the racetrack. October Chico Velo is a local nonprofit who 2016 rang in 40 years of this popular finds weekly shows that include the organizes rides locally as well as race typically held in March. regionally. A bike map is available at 410 sprint cars, dirt modified and pure the Chico Visitor Center. stocks. Other big events throughout the CHICO HEAT BASEBALL year include 3 days of racing during the High caliber baseball is back in Chico! Silver Dollar Fair and the annual July RUNNING Part of the Great West League, the Chi- 4th race followed by fireworks. co Heat is a premier collegiate wood With the variety of terrains and mild bat league providing a professional, BEYOND CHICO climate Chico has to offer, it’s no won- minor-league like atmosphere for top Recreation enthusiasts love Chico for der running is a popular activity. Road college athletes seeking a professional easy access to outdoor fun. Why live or trail, you’ll find canopy covered flat baseball career. Games are played in the snow when you can driver there runs, trails running creekside as well in the evening, taking advantage of within 60 minutes? It’s a quick day trip as hill-climbing options in wide open cooler evening temperatures in Chico’s to winter skiing and snowboarding, spaces. Nettleton Stadium. Get a ticket, grab summer water sports, camping in the a hot dog and watch some youngsters foothills, or hunting and fishing. Week- The Chico Running Club hosts fun play dizzy bat in-between innings. It’s end getaways to the coast are also pop- run/walks for members and the Chico an evening the whole family will enjoy. ular. A number of residents have second community, and organizes foot races for If you cant make it to the game, you can homes in Fort Bragg/Mendocino or in participants from all over California. listen on the KPAY mobile sports app! the Tahoe or Lake Almanor areas.

Chico Heat fans cheered their team all the way to the inaugural 2016 Great West League championship.

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Events & Attractions BIDWELL MANSION On your tour of the town founder’s TOURS Here are just a few ways you can home, you might learn about the Gold spend a day in Chico. Rush, Native American culture, or the purpose of fainting couches. Watch DOWNTOWN CHICO General Bidwell’s eyes follow you from HISTORIC WALKING TOUR anywhere you move in the entry hall as This eleven block self-guided DOWNTOWN you gaze up at his painting. Chico’s community spirit is seen in its walk passes many of the locations downtown, which serves as a central which helped shape Downtown gathering place for many community FOOD, BEER, SHOPPING, Chico’s history. Also included, for events, such as farmers markets, Friday MUSEUMS AND ENTERTAINMENT those with more time, are possible night concerts and parades. Downtown As you venture out in all directions from detours to the Junction, Stansbury Chico is where you’­ll find niche shops, the city center you will find fabulous Home and St. John’s Catholic vibrant public art and some of our restaurants, some larger hotel chains, Church, CSU Chico and Bidwell fine cuisine and libations. Sometimes several shopping centers, and the Mansion. the streets are closed for fun activities world-famous Sierra Nevada Brewery, such as Thursday Night Market or bike where you can dine, tour, and possibly CHICO CEMETERY races. Friday night concerts in the City take in a live concert at the Big Room. There is nothing like an informa- Plaza are a weekly feature during the tive tour of our City’s oldest cem- summer. Several museums operate AG TOURISM etery to gain insight into our past. downtown. Follow the Sierra Oro Farm trail and Led by local historians, you’ll visit 30 farms and wineries in the Chico pass the burial site of Ira Weath- region during Passport Weekend in erbee who notoriously found a CHICO STATE Park downtown and you can stroll right October or sample the fare of Chico 54 pound gold nugget worth onto the gorgeous Chico State campus restaurants at Taste of Chico, one of more than $10,000 in 1859 and which straddles Little Chico Creek. several Downtown events. Thousands visit the resting place of John and Bricks, ivy, and so many trees there’s an of revelers show up for Sierra Nevada Annie Bidwell, founders of Chico. actual nature walk. You will find several Brewery’s annual Oktoberfest. You’ll Call 530.345.7243 for details footbridges and paths near the creek. find many chef inspired beer or wine and availability. If you time it right, Chico Performances pairing dinners throughout the year. might be hosting a famous performer or These often sell out so be sure to check HAUNTED CHICO play in Laxson Auditorium. event calendars early for best tickets. A group of local historians and ghost buffs cater to those brave enough to explore some of Chico’s most historic sites after dark. Tours start with a short film, involve a walking tour, last 60-90 minutes and may result in hair raising or full body chills.

SIERRA NEVADA BREWERY Beer geeks will love the variety of tours offered. All are free and you must be 21 and over. Visit their website for times and reserva- tions.

ORIENT & FLUME ART GLASS Observe glass-making in action at this nationally acclaimed studio.

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CHICO COMMUNITY SILVER DOLLAR FAIR OBSERVATORY Chico kicks off the summer with the One of the many attractions of Bidwell annual Silver Dollar Fair. This week-long Park, the Chico Community Observato- event is held in May and attracts thou- MUSEUMS ry offers family friendly entertainment sands every night to enjoy the carnival and a stellar opportunity to explore the rides, farm animals, corn dogs and BIDWELL MANSION night sky. Operated by the Pacific Cen- incredible art. For history buffs, the historic ter for Astronomical Outreach, entrance Bidwell Mansion, home of Chico’s is free for the public Friday-Sunday CHICO PARADE OF LIGHTS founder, is a good place to start. (clear weather nights permitting) from Held each October, Chico Parade of sunset until park closing. The CCO is Lights is a feast for the eyes and delights located in Upper Park just past the first Chicoans of all ages. Held downtown, CHICO MUSEUM parking lot. the parade features activities, food The Chico Museum, downtown, and thousands of lights, as we usher in mounts several themed exhibits SNOW GOOSE FESTIVAL shorter days and cooler weather. and each year showcasing the The Pacific Flyway ranks as one of the history of the area, and hosts greatest migratory pathways in the presentations on Chico history. entire world, stretching from the Bering Strait off the coast of Alaska to the GATEWAY SCIENCE steeps of Patagonia in South America. RELATED MUSEUM Millions of birds representing hundreds ? INFO Adjacent to Bidwell Mansion, of species use this great avian highway Gateway caters to children as each year, and nowhere is this abun- Find the Latest Events: well as adults with interactive dis- dance of wildlife more accessible than plays. Exhibits have ranged from right here in Chico. For 5 days in Janu- chicochamber.com melting glaciers to what camping ary, thousands of people descend upon downtownchico.com was like 100 years ago. Chico to learn and enjoy the Snow Goose Festival. There are workshops, tours, and bird-watching. PATRICK RANCH Ranch home preserved to honor our community’s rich agricultural heritage through the presentation of its collection, rotating exhibits and interpretive displays.

CHICO AIR MUSEUM This charming spot at the airport collects, preserves documents and displays aircraft and aviation and space artifacts. Kid friendly and continually growing in size.

NATIONAL YO-YO MUSEUM Nestled inside the Bird In Hand gift shop in downtown Chico, this collection features every yo-yo imaginable along with informa- tion and other artifacts.

NEW! Two new museums are slated to open in 2017– MONCA (Museum of Northern California Art) and the Chico Children’s Museum.

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Arts & Entertainment PERFORMING ARTS AND LECTURES In 2015 a rotating group of determined Chico is an art town, influenced Enjoy theater? Chico has lots of it. A musicians played nonstop for the entire by the university and many cre- Chico iconic event is The Butcher Shop. month of April in an attempt to make the Held late summer (usually late August world record for the longest concert. ative-minded residents. In fact, the or September) it features live theater Foiled by a technicality, they tried again city ranks #10 in the book, The and a bocce ball tournament. All free in 2016, going 16 full days. 100 Best Art Towns in America. and open to the public. If you’ve never been, you’re missing out on a fun com- CALIFORNIA REGIONAL munity event. Visit their Facebook page CHILDREN’S THEATER for details and event dates. ARTISTS Whether your kids like to be on stage Chico’s creative arts community is bol- or in the audience, CRT is dedicated to stered by the presence of Chico State As a university community, Chico Perfor- the creation of excellent theater and the and Butte College. In addition to gal- mances hosts performances in theater, education of students of all ages in the lery shows, there are frequent special comedy and music, as well as lectures art of performance. CRT also features events, such as the Open Studios tour typically found in big cities. Sierra shows for all ages year-round. Visit their and Palio during Artoberfest in October Nevada Brewery brings live concerts to website for show times, tickets, work- and Art at the Matador in May, where Chico in its Big Room venue, and a num- shops and more! artists display their creations in the vin- ber of small independent theaters such tage rooms of the Matador Hotel. as Chico Theater Company and the Chico offers a robust Theater scene. ever-colorful Blue Room Theater offer Chico Theater company and The Blue Public art is everywhere in Chico. performances throughout the year. Room offer performances year round Stand-alone pieces, functional art, archi- featuring some of Chico’s most talented tectural art elements, and commemora- We also love our music and theater, thespians. From adaptations to original tive work can be found on sidewalks, at from wildly talented local performers productions, there’s something for every- the airport, in traffic medians, in parks, to the internationally renowned. During one, young and old alike. on bridge abutments, and on and in April and May, enjoy the ever popular public and private buildings. An assort- CAMMIES music competition held at ment of galleries cater to every taste. venues throughout the city.

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CHICO BY THE NUMBERS

PHOTO CREDITS

California State University, Chico Enloe Medical Center (p. 4 medical Laura Sederberg (p. 1 blossoms, CSUC, (p. 28 capstone project) center p. 28 CSUC, 32 CSUC creek and Chico Chamber of Commerce Daran Goodsell / Chico Performances Performing Arts bldg, 76) (p. 9 business walk). (p. 74 acrobats) Sierra Nevada Brewery (p. 1 SNB) Jake Early, artist (p. 74 public art) Nate Graham (p.1 Bidwell Park) Valya Watson (p. 65 science lab) Chico Enterprise Record Lindy Hoppough (p. 1 mansion, 3 Weiss McNair nut harvesting (p. 4 & 9 (p49 & 54 Esplanade) header, 9 Sel-Tech, 11, 15, 17, 18, harvester) 21, 22, 27, 28 header, Butte College, Chico Heat (p. 71, 74 Heater mascot) Wikimedia Commons (p. 58, 59) Cal Northern, 30 business spotlight, Chico Velo (p. 74 Wildflower Century 32 CSUC admin, 33 Butte College, Jon Yunker (cover photo, p. 1 header) and Chico State Race) 34 Butte College fire tower and Plus businesses featured in the Business Alex Chiu (p. 4 Chico Stage Race) ambulance, 36 header, 38 Butte Spotlights, except CSUC, KCoe-Isom, College, 45 towers, 47, 49 airport and New Urban Builders, and Transfer Flow Columbia College street signs, 51, 52, 53, 54 bike lane (p. 28 Columbia College) and electric vehicle, 55, 60, 62, 65 Daniel Donnelly (p. 34 Butte College mortar board, 69 pool, 72 Gateway, Digital Art & Design Lab) Chico Creek Country Club, Bidwell Mansion, 75 night shot) Downtown Chico Business Association (p. 36 downtown volunteers, 72 Sandy Laver (p. 69 all except Sycamore performer, 73, 74 Burgers & Brew Pool) outdoor dining, 75 watermelon) Jan Mathews (p. 45 oxidation ponds) © Laura Sederberg Laura ©

Lucky dogs live in Chico.

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