Chico is known as the “Limestone Capital of Texas” because of the numerous rock quarries in the area. And it’s not just the materials in the earth around the city that are rock solid – so is the character of the people who live above it.
There’s plenty of Dragon Pride to be found both at the school and in the community.
Each fall, the town celebrates Chico Fest, which in recent years has featured a Little Miss/Mr. Chico contest, live music, games, delicious food and, perhaps most importantly, great fellowship. It serves as a fundraiser for numerous community groups.
The city also serves as the northern gateway to Lake Bridgeport, and the popular Wise County Park at the lake’s edge is located just south of town.
Government
Mayor: Colleen Self
City Council Members: Maryalin Bridges, Jimmy B. Counts, Greta McDaniel, Colleen Self and Gary Fatheree.
Council Meetings
First Tuesday of the Month @ 7pm
City Hall
400 S. Hovey
City Secretary: Trish Payne
Phone: 940-644-2435
Services
The city has a small police department and is also served by the Wise County Sheriff’s Office.
Phone: 940-627-5971 or call 911 for emergencies
Chico Volunteer Fire Department
Fire Chief: Michael Vail
Phone: 940-644-5302
Chico Public Library, 109 W. Jacksboro Street (on the historic town square)
Offers programs and activities for people of all ages year-round.
Phone: 940-644-2330
Website: chicolibtx.booksys.net/opac/cpl/index.html
Chico Chamber of Commerce
Meets the second Tuesday at the Chico Senior Center with an executive/business meeting at 10:30am followed by the regular meeting at noon with lunch and a speaker. It also sponsors the annual Chico Fest and provides scholarships to graduating Chico High School seniors.
Chico Veterans Memorial was dedicated in May 2017.
Parks and Recreation
Three parks serve the city.
M. Robinson Park, at the corner of West Sherman and Buffalo Streets
Includes a play area for kids, a gazebo, skate park and a basketball court.
Jewel Park, on Farm Road 1810
Includes Baseball Fields
Tucker Park, located behind city hall at 400 S. Hovey
Includes a playground
Wise County Park, 372 County Road 1638 on the north end of Lake Bridgeport and west of Farm Road 2952
Offers three two-lane boat ramps with ample parking, restrooms, handicap access and picnic areas.
Phone: 940-644-1910
Website: co.wise.tx.us (under the “Public Works” heading)
Education
The Class 2A Chico Independent School District has three campuses – an elementary, junior high and high school.
Superintendent: Don Elsom
School Board Members: W.E. “Bill” Hand, Mark Tate, Doug Bowyer, G.A. Buckner, Steven Cox, Lori Clark and Brian Hand
Administration Office, 1120 Park Road
Phone: 940-644-2228
Chico High School, 263 Farm Road 2952
Phone: 940-644-5783
Chico Middle School, 1205 W. Sherman Street
Phone: 940-644-5550
Chico Elementary School, 1120 Park Road
Phone: 940-644-2220
Website: chicoisdtx.net