BIGGS, CA (MPG) - The City of Biggs has formally responded to the 2024–2025 Butte County Grand Jury report, which found serious governance lapses at the Biggs Industrial Park. 

The City Council, at its Aug. 12 meeting, adopted a response letter pledging to implement all recommended reforms by early 2026.

The Grand Jury’s report, titled “Big Changes in City of Biggs Government,” found that city staff had approved expenditures without budgeted line items or council authorization, and allowed tenants to operate without valid lease agreements.

In response, Interim City Administrator Rodney Harr acknowledged the issues stemmed from internal control deficiencies and administrative transitions.

The Grand Jury’s four recommendations were calls for a comprehensive fiscal audit, monthly public financial reporting, standardized lease agreements, and execution of legally compliant leases. 

The council agreed with the Grand Jury's findings and will restore trust and transparency by appointing an independent auditor to review Industrial Park finances since July 2023, Harr said.

The city also agreed to the creation of a centralized and publicly accessible ledger for monthly financial reporting, the implementation of a lease management system, and formalization of all tenant leases, subject to City Council approval.

Mayor James “Bo” Sheppard signed the official response letter submitted to the Butte County Superior Court Judge Michael R. Deems.

“The City Council of Biggs is committed to improving transparency, accountability, and oversight related to its assets and operations,” the letter states. “We thank the Grand Jury for its work and will continue to implement reforms in alignment with the recommendations provided.”

Harr said the city expects to finish the measures in phases by early next year. Auditing and legal expenses under review will be managed through budget amendments or separate contracts.