Logo courtesy of the City of Biggs

BIGGS, CA (MPG) – Biggs residents could see faster responses to animal control complaints after the City Council approved an agreement Oct. 13 returning services to neighboring Gridley following several years under contract with Butte County.

The change follows the county's decision not to participate in Biggs' competitive bidding process. Gridley was the only agency to submit a proposal and agreed to provide the same services at the same cost, City Administrator Nicolas Gauthier said.

"We're hoping that we get a good quality service with this," Gauthier said.

Animal control complaints in Biggs now exceed 100 calls a month, according to Gauthier. Although he did not provide figures on how frequently Butte County responded, councilmembers expressed frustration with the level of service residents have received.

Mayor Bo Sheppard said Gridley's proximity should improve response times, particularly compared with county personnel traveling from Oroville. He said the city previously had good experiences with Gridley's animal control operations.

Councilmember Anita Wilks described problems involving an aggressive dog in her neighborhood that had bitten several residents. She recalled being chased toward her house and having to leave groceries outside to avoid being bitten.

"The response time, I think, is going to be much better," Wilks said.

Under the agreement, the Gridley Police Department will provide animal control patrols, investigate animal cruelty and other violations, transport stray animals and handle rabies-control activities. Residents needing assistance should contact the department's dispatch center.

Animals requiring shelter will be housed at the Gridley Animal Shelter.

Regular service hours will be Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Weekend, holiday and after-hours responses will be provided if deemed necessary by Gridley police supervisors.

The agreement carries an annual cost of $27,228, payable in monthly installments of $2,269. Gauthier said the expense remains within the city's existing budget.

The contract runs from Oct. 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030, with provisions allowing annual fee adjustments. Total compensation cannot exceed $150,500 without a formal amendment.

Additional charges could apply for unusually extensive investigations, certain veterinary expenses and other specialized services.

Biggs will continue handling animal licensing and collecting fees while providing Gridley with updated licensing records each month. Gridley will furnish reports on its animal control activities.

The agreement still requires approval by the Gridley City Council, Gauthier said.