Jan 8, 2026 - Zephyr News | Congressman Doug LaMalfa Dies, Chico City Council Actions, and Klamath River Land Return

This week on Zephyr News, FM 90.1 KZFR Chico’s weekly local news program, we cover major stories impacting the North State.The episode includes reporting on the death of longtime U.S. Representative Doug LaMalfa and what California law requires to fill the congressional vacancy. We also recap the January 6, 2026 Chico City Council meeting, including discussions on development projects, police oversight, public utility decisions, e-bike safety, and the future of Depot Park.From Ecotopia, we share highlights from an interview with Chico City Council members Addison Winslow and Bryce Goldstein on safe streets, smart growth, public power, and transit planning. The program also covers a landmark land return along the Klamath River, where the Klamath Indigenous Land Trust purchased 10,000 acres from PacifiCorp.Additional reporting from Chico Sol examines immigration detention affecting local residents, challenges within Butte County’s Mental Health Diversion Program, and a lawsuit seeking public records related to officer-involved shootings.Zephyr News airs Thursdays from 7 to 7:30 pm on KZFR 90.1 FM. Support local journalism at kzfr dot org slash donate.