Town Manager

The Town of Paradise is pleased to announce the selection of Mike O’Brien as Interim Town Manager, effective Monday, September 15, 2025. O’Brien will serve in the interim role while the Paradise Town Council conducts the process of selecting a Town Manager.

“Mike’s depth of leadership experience and strong ties to the region make him an excellent choice to guide the Town of Paradise during this transition,” said Steve Crowder, Mayor of Paradise. “We are confident in his ability to provide steady leadership and keep the Town moving forward while we complete the search for our next Town Manager.”

O’Brien brings decades of leadership and public service experience to the position. He previously served as Police Chief for the City of Chico and currently serves as Commander of the Butte Inter-agency Narcotics Task Force (BINTF). In addition to his professional career, O’Brien has served as a Chico City Council member since November 2024.

“I am honored to have been selected by the Town Council to serve this community as the Interim Town Manager. I have great admiration for the resiliency of this community and respect the progress that has been made to rebuild after the devastation of the Camp Fire.” Said Mike O’Brien when asked about his reasons for taking on this position. “I understand the remaining challenges and believe stability is critically important as the Town undergoes a search for a new Town Manager. I truly want this community to succeed and am excited to play a role in this incredible comeback story!”  

O’Brien will assume the Interim Town Manager role on September 15, 2025, and will oversee day-to-day operations of the Town, ensuring continuity of services and support for Paradise residents, businesses, and staff.