COLUSA, CA (MPG) — As 2025 comes to a close, Colusa County faced a range of challenges. Local governments managed tight budgets, aging infrastructure, and long-term planning issues tied to housing, water, and growth. Agriculture continued to anchor the local economy, while community groups, veterans organizations, and local artists sustained civic life through service and events. Here are the top stories from the past year.
As we close out another year, we look ahead to 2026 with hope and promise.
January 2025
Local government activity set the tone for the new year as Colusa County and city leaders addressed staffing changes and policy enforcement. The county announced the selection of a new community development director, marking a leadership transition tied to long-term planning, land use and economic development. In Colusa, city officials signaled a tougher approach to unlicensed pop-up vendors, responding to complaints from brick-and-mortar businesses about fairness, safety and enforcement. The discussion highlighted ongoing tension between state law allowing street vending and local requirements for business licensing and health compliance.
Colusa native Luke Steidlmayer was sworn in as Colusa County’s 12th Superior Court Judge. Also sworn in were Randy Wilson as District 4 Supervisor, Daurice Kalfsbeek Smith as District 2 Supervisor, and Kent Boes as District 3 Supervisor, as well as Cindy Dillard as County Treasurer/Tax Collector, and Bob Buckner as County Assessor.
Colusa High School Senior, Luis Flores, organized a donation center at the First Presbyterian Church in Colusa on New Year’s Day where those in need could come and receive free clothing.
After more than a decade, senior citizens returned to Trinity United Methodist Church in Colusa for a potluck-style lunch. The Senior Spread continues twice monthly inside Fellowship Hall .
Attorney Brad Morrow joined the Colusa County District Attorney’s Office, being sworn in as the office’s new Chief Deputy District Attorney.
The State of California Board of Parole Hearings held a parole suitability hearing for convicted murderer Nathan Ramazinni. Parole was denied.
February 2025
The Colusa Farm Show, the first agriculture-trade exposition on the West Coast, celebrated its Diamond Jubilee during its three-day run. The 60th show provided one-stop shopping for farm equipment and services.
Land use and long-term planning dominated February coverage. In Maxwell, residents weighed in on the draft Maxwell Community Plan, a document shaped largely by the anticipated construction of the Sites Reservoir. The plan addressed temporary workforce housing, traffic impacts, infrastructure needs and economic development, while residents raised concerns about how a multi-year construction project could permanently alter the town’s character. County officials said the plan would guide growth but does not include funding for implementation.
At the county level, the proposed Janus Solar project near Williams moved closer to a final decision after the Planning Commission failed to reach a recommendation, sending the controversial project directly to the Board of Supervisors. The debate centered on balancing renewable energy development and increased tax revenue against agricultural preservation, fire safety concerns and land use consistency with the General Plan.
Colusa City Council approved funding for an off-leash dog park near City Hall, reviving a long-standing community request first identified in the city’s 2007 Parks Master Plan. The project advanced using Measure B funds, with discussions continuing about future pickleball courts and additional park amenities.
In Williams, city leaders made headlines by voting to pay off the city’s unfunded pension liability, a rare move aimed at saving millions in long-term interest costs and stabilizing future budgets.
March 2025
Growth and infrastructure pressures dominated March coverage, particularly in Williams. City officials outlined the need to expand water and wastewater capacity as new development proposals continued to move forward, including commercial projects near the Highway 20 corridor. The City Council authorized an antidegradation study, a required step toward expanding the wastewater treatment plant, as officials warned the system was nearing its permitted capacity. Without expansion, city leaders said future development approvals could stall.
In March, a groundbreaking ceremony marked the official grand opening of CD Semple Park, a new inclusive park in the heart of a residential neighborhood on 3rd Street in Colusa.
In Colusa, City Council continued discussions tied to Measure B spending, detailing how small allocations from the sales tax increase translated into tangible public safety upgrades. Police and fire departments used funds for new in-car computers, turnout gear and equipment for firefighters, underscoring how limited dollars were stretched to meet operational needs.
Also in March, Kane Lausten was sworn in as a Colusa County District Attorney investigator.
Downtown Colusa saw a surge of activity with the launch of the inaugural Colusa Art Walk. Organized by the Colusa County Arts Council, the event spanned several blocks and featured local artists, musicians and demonstrations inside businesses and public spaces. Organizers credited strong attendance and community participation, signaling interest in making the Art Walk an annual event.
Community recognition also made headlines. Longtime agricultural and water leader Don Bransford received the Will S. Green Award, honoring decades of leadership in irrigation, water policy and regional agriculture.
Student achievement remained in focus as Arthur “Ryder” Torrens, a fifth grade student from Maxwell, claimed the Colusa County Spelling Bee title. Sixth-grader Liyana Anahi of Williams Upper Elementary School took home second-place after going head-to-head with fourth-grader Esteban Alvarado (also of Williams).
Eloise won first-place at the Colusa County Science and Engineering Fair. Her project, titled “Trick for a Treat,” explored the question: Do dogs prefer a tasty treat or lovable praise?
Colusa was transformed into a vibrant patchwork paradise in March for National Quilting Day. The annual Quilts Around the Block offered a vibrant tapestry of color at various quilt displays around the city, quilting demonstrations, a pancake breakfast at the Colusa Fire Department, vendor fair, car show and other downtown activities.
April 2025
Affordable housing and economic development dominated April’s news. The Regional Housing Authority marked the opening of Rancho Colus Apartments, a 49-unit complex on Highway 20 that brought the first new apartment construction to Colusa in decades. The project targeted low-income working families and included supportive housing units tied to county behavioral health services.
The Colusa Area Little League received a $100,000 donation from the Colusa Indian Community Council for a new ball field, and $48,000 was awarded to the Grimes Cemetery District and the Grimes Civic Association. The Grimes Civic Association plans to upgrade the town’s historic scout cabin.
The Colusa County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Williams proudly celebrated the grand opening of the Spark by Hilton hotel in Williams.
The Stonyford Museum hosted its first Spring Tea Party as a fundraiser, located in the 125-year-old historic Town Hall.
Water management drew attention as the Colusa Basin Drainage District approved $100,000 to support pilot groundwater recharge projects in the Colusa and Yolo subbasins. The funding aimed to help local water districts capture flood flows and replenish depleted aquifers, a growing priority under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act.
The 2025 Virginia Yerxa Community Read followed a week of captivating activities aimed at enhancing the understanding and appreciation of Jane Austen’s second novel, “Pride and Prejudice.”
The Colusa County Courthouse elevator was out of service for approximately six weeks. The temporary closure was necessary to modernize the elevator’s mechanical and electrical components, ensuring compliance with current safety and fire codes.
The City of Colusa approved using water fund reserves to drill a new well to replace the failing well at Veterans Memorial Park.
May 2025
Public health concerns surfaced in Arbuckle after Colusa County officials issued a clarification regarding wastewater spills at the Arbuckle Public Utility District treatment facility. County Administrative Officer Wendy Tyler acknowledged an internal communication breakdown after multiple spills between 2023 and 2024 were not promptly shared with the county’s public health officer. The incident prompted renewed focus on interdepartmental coordination and transparency, particularly when environmental issues intersect with public health.
The City of Williams marked Arbor Day with a vibrant tree planting event in April to celebrate the importance of trees in enhancing the community’s environment and quality of life.
The second annual Guerra de Tacos in Williams in May successfully celebrated a blend of flavor and culture. Tacos Rivera took first-place, and Takitos El Charquito, a local favorite, won second-place in the taco competition and first-place in the salsa competition.
At the county level, budget discussions intensified as literacy advocates urged the Board of Supervisors to protect funding for library services. Speakers warned that potential cuts tied to state funding reductions could lead to staff layoffs, reduced hours or branch closures, highlighting the library’s expanded role in education, social services and community support.
Memorial Day ceremonies across Colusa County drew residents to cemeteries in Colusa, Williams and Maxwell to honor service members killed in military service.
The arts took center stage with the debut of the Stagehands Theatre Variety Show, which showcased local performers of all ages.
Also in May, the Colusa County Adult School proudly celebrated the graduation of 21 cadets from its Fire Academy, marking a decade of preparing future firefighters for service.
The eighth bi-annual Swing for Scholarships Golf Tournament, hosted by the Colusa County Alpha Kappa Chapter of Omega Nu, raising more than $28,000 for local scholarships.
Public art also expanded countywide as the Colusa County Arts Council completed a new mural at the Princeton Library through its “Small Spaces, Big Impact” initiative.
June 2025
Financial strain dominated June coverage in Williams, where city officials approved employee furloughs to address a projected $1.17 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026, followed by an additional $1.3 million deficit the next year. Rather than layoffs, the City Council approved unpaid furlough days equivalent to a 13 percent pay reduction over two years for all employees, including management. Officials said the move aimed to preserve staffing levels while buying time to address structural budget issues tied to declining revenues and rising costs.
Summer kicked off with the return of the Levitt AMP Colusa Music Series at Veterans Memorial Park. The free concert series opened with a performance by Canadian duo Whitehorse.
Colusa Founders Day celebrated the Colusa and Lake Railroad with the official unveiling of a new mural design that will be painted on the west wall of the Kittle’s Building on Market St.
Williams’ Pioneer Day celebrated tradition and community in a big way. The parade featured floats, bands, and community groups celebrating hometown roots and small town pride.
Under the guidance of the Pierce High School art teacher Sierra Reading, students unveiled their newly-completed community murals on display in the windows of the historic Arbuckle Hotel building on 5th St. The murals paid tribute to the town and its rural culture. This marks the fourth installment of community art.
newly completed community murals. Photo courtesy of Pierce High School
Under the glow of stage lights and carnival rides, Maxwell’s Makenna Dunlap was crowned Miss Colusa County, and Rachel Shadley was crowned Mini Miss Colusa County, at the 2025 Colusa County Fair.
July 2025
Government transparency dominated July headlines after the Colusa County Grand Jury released its 2024-25 final report, marking the third consecutive year the panel criticized the City of Colusa’s financial practices. The report cited weaknesses in accounting controls, purchasing procedures and public access to records. The grand jury called for reforms such as updated accounting software, clearer procurement policies and improved audio-visual systems to enhance transparency. City officials acknowledged the findings while pointing to recent updates to the city’s purchasing policy approved earlier in the summer.
The small river town of Princeton pulsed with heritage, music and faith as the Portuguese community came together in June to celebrate more than a century of tradition. Crowned as Princeton Portuguese 2025 Festa Big Queen, Ellie Milne and her sidemaids Chelsea Perman, and twin sister, Reese. Also crowned was Portuguese Festa Little Queen Fallyn Mendes and sidemaids Paisley Pacheco and Cora Langerwerf.
Back-to-school preparation took center stage with the launch of the second annual Backpack Drive. Organizers set a goal of raising $7,000 to distribute 500 backpacks filled with school supplies to students across Colusa County.
A group of passionate and determined parents is fighting to save Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Colusa County’s only private, faith-based school, from permanently closing after 134 years of service.
The Colusa County Board of Supervisors appointed Daniel “Colt” Esenwein to serve as the county’s public works director
Summer community life remained active throughout the county. The Arbuckle Watermelon Festival returned for its fourth year, drawing families downtown for local produce, and activities.
The Arbuckle Parks and Recreation Department unveiled its brand-new basketball courts at Balfour Park in June.
In Colusa, veterans began raising funds for proposed bronze statues at Veterans Memorial Park.
A monumental-sized American flag was unfurled atop the levee at Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area in July. Rising 130 feet into the sky, the flagpole now stands as one of the tallest in the region, making it a powerful visual landmark for travelers as they enter the city.
August 2025
Public decision-making and accountability dominated August coverage in Colusa. After months of public comment and appeals, the Colusa City Council voted to uphold approval of a minor use permit for a new animal processing facility at Colusa Industrial Properties. The decision followed a lengthy public hearing and centered on zoning law, with council members stating there was no legal basis to deny a project permitted under industrial zoning. Residents raised concerns about odor, water runoff, pests and quality of life, while city officials emphasized the permit’s extensive conditions and regulatory oversight.
The Colusa County Board of Supervisors acted swiftly in August to authorize emergency repairs on the Colusa Weir Bridge following the discovery of critical structural damage that poses a potential safety risk to the traveling public.
In the wake of the unexpected closure of Our Lady of Lourdes School, more than two dozen community members discussed the future of faith based education in Colusa County. A meeting, hosted by the Ministerial Association of California Counties, focused on a bold proposal: opening a new Christian private school.
The county government also advanced structural changes as the Board of Supervisors introduced the first phase of a countywide fee schedule, beginning with the Clerk-Recorder’s Office. The proposal included significant increases to long-unchanged fees for marriage licenses, fictitious business name filings and document copies. Officials said the goal was to align fees with the actual cost of providing services and reduce losses to the general fund.
Maxwell held its first Harvest Festival in August. The daylong festival began with a barbecue competition for first responders and a Dutch oven contest open to the public. The evening featured a grand rodeo entry in the main arena and a flyover, followed by bronc and bull riding.
A new community resource opened its doors with the grand opening of the Thrive Day Center on Main Street in Colusa. Operated by the Ministerial Association of California Counties, the center launched as a daytime resource hub offering classes, social space and connections to services for individuals experiencing isolation, recovery or transition.
The Arbuckle Water District has launched a new website designed to improve accessibility and better serve the needs of its customers. Residents can subscribe to receive email and text notifications at http://arbucklepud.org.
In Williams, a dedication was held for a Little Library in the Donna Critchfield Memorial Garden. Built as an Eagle Scout project by Christopher Roland, a Life Scout with Troop 5 Colusa.
with the raffle drawing at the California Duck Calling Championships on Sunday, Aug. 24.
Photo by Susan Meeker
August also brought major community events, including the California State Duck Calling Championship, which returned to Colusa with strong youth participation and regional attention,
September 2025
former garage on 5th Street in Arbuckle. Photo by Lloyd Green
City governance in Williams dominated September coverage as tensions on the City Council continued to surface. The council voted to censure Councilmember John J. Troughton Jr. for a second consecutive month, citing unprofessional conduct. The action, while symbolic, underscored ongoing divisions among council members during a period marked by financial strain, reduced staffing and a four-day work week. Troughton defended his conduct as an effort to push for transparency and fiscal accountability, while the rest of the council offered little public explanation for the repeated rebukes.
Williams officials also moved forward with the Proposition 218 process to raise water and sewer rates, warning that current rates no longer cover operational costs or aging infrastructure. City staff emphasized the increases were not tied to expansion or new hires, but to maintaining existing service levels.
Regional infrastructure challenges remained in focus with the Williams City Council approving an agreement to continue treating wastewater from Arbuckle. The temporary arrangement brought new revenue to Williams but raised questions about long-term solutions, as Arbuckle has not yet identified a permanent fix for its failing treatment system.
In Maxwell, the long-awaited Maxwell Community Plan neared completion after more than a year of public workshops. County officials presented an implementation framework tied to the future Sites Reservoir project, addressing housing, zoning changes and coordination among multiple agencies to manage anticipated growth.
Colusa County’s new detention and treatment facility is moving forward one month ahead of schedule and under budget. The project, funded through Senate Bill 863, will replace the outdated 1962 jail with a stand-alone, 96-bed facility designed to improve security, efficiency and access to medical and treatment services.
Residents of Colusa County looked to the sky in September and caught an uncommon sight: the Goodyear Blimp flying over town.
The Sacramento Valley Museum hosted its annual birthday celebration for community members 80 years and older.
The Colusa City Council approved a two-year contract with Flock Safety to install automated license plate reader cameras throughout the city. The $77,200 project will deploy 11 cameras at key entry and exit points in Colusa.
The Colusa County Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of the ELEO Pregnancy and Family Resource Center, 231 5th St., in Colusa. The center is designed to support parents from pregnancy through early childhood. Services include lactation counseling, parenting groups and doulas.
The Pacific Flyway Quilters gathered at the Colusa Masonic Lodge for their annual Community Service Night, where dozens of handmade quilts, walker totes, pillowcases, bags and pet beds were presented to local service groups.
October 2025
Public safety and government oversight dominated October coverage. The Colusa County Board of Supervisors revisited local policies after an inquiry revealed interest from a private company in storing explosive materials on heavy industrial-zoned land.
The Colusa Masonic Lodge celebrated its 150th anniversary, marking a milestone for one of the county’s oldest institutions and a gathering place that has shaped the community for generations.
Collectors and history enthusiasts filled the Sacramento Valley Museum for the annual Antique Bottle Show, an event that has become a fall tradition in Williams.
Nearly 200 Community members gathered at the Princeton Branch Library to dedicate the newly named Mary Beth Massa Reading Room, celebrating a local figure whose decades of service have shaped the branch and its youngest readers.
The City of Colusa recognized the Rotary Club of Colusa for a century of community service and its leadership in the city’s Trees for Tomorrow program.
The effects of a prolonged federal government shutdown reached Colusa County operations. Agricultural Commissioner Anastacia Allen reported delays in federal coordination affecting grant programs and regulatory guidance, including a stalled biomass designation effort. Health and Human Services officials warned that more than 2,700 county residents would temporarily lose food assistance benefits. County departments began preparing emergency food distribution and support services.
More than 200 Maxwell Elementary students joined local veterans Thursday, Sept. 25, at American Legion Post 218 for a flag retirement ceremony that honored more than 150 worn American flags.
The City of Williams appointed John Schempf as interim city administrator to replace Frank Kennedy, who retired from the position in September.
The Colusa County Board of Supervisors honored Chief Administrative Officer Wendy Tyler in September. Tyler was recognized for her nine years in the role and for her 25 years of service in county government. Former County Counsel Marcos Kropf was appointed as interim County Administrative Officer.
The Colusa County Board of Supervisors approved a three-year contract with Joshua H. Pack to serve as County Administrative Officer beginning in December.
A concrete traffic island at the intersection of Fourth and E streets became the latest flashpoint in Williams, where city leaders say the “pork chop” was installed for safety while business owners argue it is choking off their livelihoods.
Gray skies and a forecast calling for rain did not dampen the spirit in downtown Arbuckle, where nearly 280 vehicles rolled in for the community’s annual car show.
The Friends of the Colusa County Free Library received a $20,000 boost this month thanks to a partnership between Colusa-Glenn Farm Credit and CoBank.
County Free Library. The gift was matched by CoBank for a total of $20,000. Pictured are library staff,
Friends members, Farm Credit representatives and Colusa County Librarian Stacey Costello.
The Stagehands’ third annual Scarecrow Contest wrapped with 21 creative entries decorating Colusa businesses and public spaces throughout October. First place went to “Jack Skellington,” created by staff at the Colusa County Courthouse.
Dozens of dogs and their owners gathered at Veterans Memorial Park in late October, for Puptoberfest. Hosted by the Friends of Colusa County Animal Shelter the event featured a dog costume contest, raffle prizes, games, food and activities for families. The top three overall winners were Bronco, dressed in a Toy Story themed costume; Joe, covered in spiderwebs and pushed in a stroller; and Chewy, a three-legged dog who wore an IHOP server uniform with a name tag.
November 2025
Major infrastructure investment took center stage in November as the Colusa Indian Community Council and Comcast marked the launch of a $3.2 million broadband expansion project. Funded through a California Public Utilities Commission grant and private investment, the project will bring high-speed internet to more than 250 previously unserved homes and businesses in rural Colusa County. Leaders framed the effort as essential infrastructure, with impacts ranging from education access to telehealth and economic opportunity. Comcast also announced a $5,000 donation to the Friends of the Colusa County Free Library during the kickoff.
Arbuckle Fire Chief, Casey Cox retires after 43 years of service to his community. A celebration was held honoring Cox with gifts, awards, and recognition from state and local leaders.
In city government, the Colusa City Council unanimously approved a new three-year contract for City Manager Jesse Cain, extending his tenure through 2028.
Community planning moved forward as Colusa hosted the American Planning Association’s Design and Preservation Rapid Assistance Team. Over two days, national experts worked with residents, students and business owners to develop concepts for downtown revitalization, historic preservation and improved connections to the Sacramento River. The process emphasized both long-term vision and short-term “quick wins” to rebuild public trust after past planning efforts stalled.
The Colusa Weir Bridge is once again fully open to traffic after completion of emergency stabilization work that began in July.
The second annual Ruck for Vets raised a little over $3,700 for Colusa VFW Post 2441.
The Colusa County Office of Emergency Services urged residents to “Know Your Zone” as it rolled out a new digital evacuation map and alert system. Officials highlighted the locally built tool as a cost-effective way to improve disaster readiness and communication during fires, floods and other emergencies.
City and County leaders voted for membership in Pioneer Community Energy, moving the residents toward potential rate relief for residents and businesses.
District 5160 Governor Joy Alaidarous visited the Rotary Club of Colusa in November. She inducted Colusa’s newest member, Robert Cardenas, and presented Rotarian Antonio Ortiz with the Bridge Builder Award.
Nov. 11 lunch meeting at Rocco’s Bar and Grill, where she shared her “Building Bridges” district
theme and the international “Unite for Good” message. Photo by Lloyd Green Jr.
Colusa County Superintendent of Schools Mike West announced his retirement in December, concluding nearly a decade in the elected post and almost 50 years in education. The Colusa County Office of Education board selected Deputy Superintendent of Student Services Charles Wayman to serve as county superintendent for the next year. He fills the gap between the retirement of West and the election of a new superintendent.
The Colusa County Fairgrounds kicked off the holiday gift-giving season with its annual Colusa Craft Faire, which filled the main buildings with shoppers and more than 100 vendors.
Hoblit Motors and Ford Motor Company teamed up to support Pierce Athletics with its “Drive 4 ur community” event.
December 2025
County leadership and regional influence closed out the year with Colusa County Supervisor Kent Boes selected as second vice president of the California State Association of Counties for 2026.
Birchfield Elementary’s transitional kindergarten students delivered letters to Santa to the Colusa Post Office and got a behind the scenes look at how holiday mail moves from drop box to delivery route.
At the county level, officials continued encouraging civic participation as the Colusa County Sheriff’s Office renewed its call for volunteers for the Volunteer Citizen Service Unit. The unit, which assists law enforcement with non-enforcement duties, reported declining membership even as demand for support at community events and public safety operations continues to grow.
The Colusa City Council approved a $2.5 million loan from its general fund reserves to help build public infrastructure for the Colusa Town and Country commercial project in the Wescot Road realignment area.
Colusa Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2441 hosted its annual Christmas dinner and used the evening to honor VFW Member Chaz Franklin, community member Lauren Manor, local teacher Chloe Ferraiuolo, and essay winners Caden Agnew, and Allie Dennis.
Downtown Colusa saw a notable reopening as New Leaf Cafe launched at 621 Market St., replacing the former Crave Cafe. Operated as a nonprofit, the cafe paired restaurant service with job training programs, senior nutrition meal preparation and plans for medically tailored meals. Organizers framed the reopening as both an economic and social service investment in the community.
Holiday traditions and youth engagement shaped much of December’s coverage. In Williams, the Festival of Lights brought residents downtown for a lighted parade, vendors and performances, while Colusa, Arbuckle and Maxwell hosted their own seasonal celebrations.
Colusa Police Department welcomed two new officers during a swearing in ceremony for recruits Shelby Lynn Azevedo and Luiz Rodriguez, both recent graduates of the police academy.
Community pride extended to local businesses, with Wild Hair winning the Colusa County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Glow Off, drawing residents throughout town to view holiday displays.
The Colusa Rotary Club continued its biannual Trees for Tomorrow program in December, planting about nine trees across the City of Colusa in partnership with the Colusa Parks, Trees and Recreation Commission.