On December 3, 2025, the Redding City Council convened to appoint new leaders following the conclusion of Mayor Jack Munns's one-year term. In a 4-1 vote, council member Mike Littau, a local insurance agent, was selected as the new mayor. Dr. Paul Dhanuka was named vice mayor, and Aaron Resner was appointed mayor pro tempore. The process, which extended over 45 minutes, devolved into heated arguments about the proper method for selecting the mayor.

On March 13, during a budget workshop, Council Member Tenessa Audette noticed shifting claims about a budget gap—first $4M, then $8M. City Manager Barry Tippin insisted cuts could only come from police or fire. Audette raised questions about cash balances and inconsistent figures but got no clear answers, and was later prevented from asking questions when the budget passed 4–1.