Sticking with the ice rink in Paradise

Some Chico citizens requested an ice-skating rink many years ago, and they argue that it is long overdue. Despite one being next door in Paradise, Chico approved their development even though circumstances are much different now from the proposal decades ago.

Our area has experienced multiple catastrophes in recent years, most notably the 2018 Camp fire and recent Covid impacts on lives and our economy.

Many Camp Fire survivors lost everything, and as much as we want to replace everything possible, case management must help determine what are NEEDS vs. WANTS and prioritize.

Paradise and Chico are struggling, and also face needs vs wants scenarios. While Chico WANTS an ice-skating rink, we do not need an iceskating rink. Paradise NEEDS their ice-skating rink for the survival of their city.

Paradise is trying desperately to recover, and depends on its ice-skating rink as one of its only revenue generators.

Our circumstances changed dramatically when our cities collided with the fire. This is a reality owned by all neighbors, despite politics. Chico’s insistence on opening the same exact service places the ridge at risk of an even slower recovery rate than they have now.

Paradise has begged Chico to explore other options that would appeal to both communities, yet Chico is moving ahead despite rationed water and the resulting detriment to Paradise’s economy.

I may embrace other community involvement ideas, but the ice-skating tradition for my family remains with Paradise. I hope that more will support them too. We remain Butte Strong.

— Jesica Giannola, Chico