In a stunning reversal that validates months of public outrage and investigative reporting, Redding’s new City Manager, William Tarbox, has officially paused the Redding Electric Utility’s (REU) proposed 18% cumulative rate increase and canceled the March 17 public hearing.

At the Redding City Council’s regular meeting, Redding Electric Utility (REU) Director Nicholas Zettel presented on the proposed multi-year rate increases. He noted that the two public workshops held on February 26 had low attendance. Zettel recommended postponing the vote until the next council meeting on March 17 to allow for additional workshops at varied times and locations. Councilmember Tenessa Audette was the only member actively pushing back on the rate hikes.

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.

Tensions flair up as Redding City Mayor Jack Munns Won't Allow Council Member Audette to Use Her PointPoint Presentation to Address Issues with the City Finance Director's Response to Her Budget Findings Report

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.