r"
OPENING:
CLOSED SESSION
CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
June 3, 2024-4:30 P.M.
City Hall Council Chamber
Mayor Gordo called the regular meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. (Absent:
Councilmembers Hampton and Williams)
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting recessed at 4:30 p.m. to discuss the following closed session item:
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE PASADENA COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION CONFERENCE WITH REAL
PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8
Property: 145 North Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, CA
Agency Negotiators: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating Party: Designated entities pursuant to Surplus Land Act (Gov't Code § 54222(b))
Under Negotiation: Price and terms of payment
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency Designated Representatives: Miguel Marquez and Tiffany Jacobs-Quinn
Employee Organization: Pasadena Police Lieutenants
Association
The above closed session Item A was discussed, with no reportable action at this time.
ROLL CALL:
Councilmembers:
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Staff:
The above closed session Item B was not discussed.
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting reconvened at 5:33 p.m.
The pledge of allegiance was led by Councilmember Lyon.
Mayor Victor M. Gordo
Vice Mayor Steve Madison
Councilmember Tyron Hampton (arrived at 5:35 p.m.)
Councilmember Justin Jones (arrived at 5:34 p.m.)
Councilmember Jason Lyon
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Councilmember Jessica Rivas
Councilmember Felicia Williams
City Manager Miguel Marquez
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Michele Beal Bagneris
City Clerk Mark Jomsky
Council Minutes106/03/2024
CEREMONIAL MATTERS
PUBLIC COMMENT ON
MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
CONSENT CALENDAR
City Manager/ Executive
Director
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Mayor Gordo presented certificates of commendation to student athletes Nicholas Tellez from John Muir High School, California Interscholastic Federation (GIF) State Para-Athlete Championship competitor, and Latonio Miller from Pasadena High School, CIF Southern Section and State Para-athlete Championship competitor, congratulated them both on their athletic achievements, and expressed gratitude to the parents and coaches for their support. Jennifer Hall Lee, PUSD Board Member, and Lawton Gray, John Muir High School Principal, also congratulated the student athletes on their accomplishments.
Mayor Gordo provided a brief recap on the Pride Flag raising ceremony that took place earlier in the day in honor of Pride Month and reaffirmed the City's commitment to inclusivity and embracing diversity.
Mayor Gordo also presented a proclamation recognizing June 7, 2024, as Gun Violence Awareness Day, spoke on the significance of City efforts to reduce gun-related crimes and reaffirmed the City's support to strengthen gun safety laws. Daniel Fong, representative from Day One, thanked the City Council and accepted the proclamation on behalf of the organization, and invited the City Council and the community to attend the "Home: A Safe Place" event on Friday, June 7,2024.
Stacey Rain Strickler, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding the transparency and accuracy of the Public Works capital fund expenditures, reportedly transferred to cover operational expenses, and requested a record of the City Council's authorization for this transfer.
Olden Denham, Pasadena resident, spoke on the need to right the wrongs made by local government, and the importance of doing the right thing for the community.
Adriana Bautista, Pasadena resident, spoke on the need for increased accountability and transparency from the Pasadena Police Department, and urged for public funds to be used to address matters of poverty and homelessness.
ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE SUBMITTAL OF A
GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE CALIFORNIA CLEAN ENERGY
PLANNING PROGRAM FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENERGY
COMIVIISSION; AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER AND
GENERAL MANAGER OF THE WATER AND POWER
DEPARTMENT, RESPECTIVELY, TO ENTER INTO AND
ADMINISTER ANY RESULTING AGREEMENT (Water & Power
Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant Council Minutes206/03/2024
Item discussed separately
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to Section 21065 ofCEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required;
(2) Adopt a resolution authorizing the Pasadena Water and Power Department's ("PWP's") submission of a grant application for the California Clean Energy Planning Program ("CCEPP") grant for an amount not-to-exceed $100,000 from the California Energy Commission ("CEC") (Resolution No. 10052);
(3) Authorize the City Manager as the authorized representative with signature authority to execute the CCEPP grant agreement with CEC for an amount not-to-exceed $100,000; and
(4) Designate the General Manager of PWP, or designee, as the authorized representative for all matters related to the application, administration, implementation, and any subsequent activities related to the administration of the grant agreement.
ADOPTION OF FISCAL YEAR 2025 RECOMMENDED GENERAL
FEE SCHEDULE (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Tolls, Fares, and Charges); and
(2) Adopt a resolution approving the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 General Fee Schedule. (Resolution No. 10053)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT
FOR MARKETING, BRANDING AND PUBLIC RELATION
SERVICES WITH ECHO FACTORY (Office of the City Manager) Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a "project" pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(3) and 15378, and therefore is not subject to environmental review; and
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract as the result of the competitive selection process specified by Section 4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC), with Echo Factory in an amount not- to-exceed a grand total of $108,000 or 1 year, whichever occurs first.
Authorize the City Manager to extend the contract for up to two additional one-year periods, if needed. (Contract No. 32968)
APPROVAL OF KEY BUSINESS TERMS OF AN AFFORDABLE
HOUSING LOAN AGREEMENT WITH HERITAGE HOUSING
PARTNERS FOR A CITY LOAN IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$2,000,000 TO ACQUIRE AND REHABILITATE PROPERTY AT 2318 E. FOOTHILL BOULEVARD FOR OPERATION AS A TEN-UNIT
AFFORDABLE RENTAL HOUSING PROJECT FOR TRANSITION
AGE YOUTH AND AMENDMENTS TO THE HOUSING
DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL YEAR 2024 OPERATING BUDGET
Council Minutes306/03/2024
Item discussed separately
Item discussed separately
City Council
RESIGNATIONS,
APPOINTMENTS, &
REAPPOINTMENTS
City Clerk/ Secretary
CLAIMS RECEIVED AND
FILED
L.PUBLIC HEARING SET
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER A FORTY-MONTH
OFFICE LEASE AGREEMENT WITH 199 S. LOS ROBLES, LLC,
SAND 199 LOS ROBLES, LLC AND ROBLES SM, LLC FOR THE
PREMISES LOCATED AT 199 S. LOS ROBLES AVENUE, SUITE
#350, IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $774,147 FOR THE RENT
STABILIZATION DEPARTMENT (Office of the City Manager)
AUTHORIZATION TO INCREASE THE PURCHASE ORDER FOR AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $4,240,405 WITH GENERAL
ELECTRIC COMPANY TO REPAIR GLENARM TURBINE 5 AND
AMEND THE FISCAL YEAR 2024 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM BUDGET FOR THE WATER AND POWER
DEPARTMENT (Water & Power Dept.)
RESIGNATION OF XILIAN CHEN STAMMER FROM THE HUMAN
SERVICES COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JUNE 30, 2024 (District 7 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF LAUREN SIEGEL TO THE
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1,
2024 (District 1 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF CAROL POTTER TO THE HISTORIC
PRESERVATION COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2024 (District 1 Nomination)
Claim No. Claimant
2024-0271 Harley Jackson
2024-0272 Reneh Hayrapetians
2024-0273 Hayley Elizabeth Carr
2024-0274 Lloyd Mosley
2024-0275 Hue Lam
2024-0276 Terri Allison Gay
2024-0277 USAA Casualty Insurance
Company a/s/o Annette Adams
2024-0278 Jesus Esparza and Patricia S
Esparza as Trustees of the
Esparza Trust Dated August 17,
1987
2024-0279 Rebecca Sales
2024-0280 Los Angeles County MTA
2024-0281 Antoinette Therese Boroudian
2024-0282 Arturo Montes
2024-0283 Elite Express Inc.
Claim Amount
$ 483.23
10,000.00+
420.00
35,000.00+
10,000.00
2,107.00
4,551.64
35,000.00+
375.00
35,000.00+
35,000.00+
230.00
35,000.00+
June 10, 2024, 5:30 p.m. - Appeal of The Board of Zoning Appeals' decision regarding Concept Design Review (DHP2024-00099) - 615 South Catalina Ave
Council Minutes406/03/2024
MOTION:
CONSENT ITEMS
DISCUSSED
SEPARATELY
July 15, 2024, 5:30 p.m. - Block 5 Maintenance Assessment District Increase
July 15, 2024, 5:30 p.m. - Regarding Conditional Use Permit #6926 - 2915 East Colorado Blvd.
July 15, 2024, 5:30 p.m. - Zoning Code Amendments related to restaurants
July 15, 2024, 5:30 p.m. - Zoning Code Amendment related to Project Entitlement Time Limit and Extensions, and Miscellaneous Updates It was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by
Councilmember Lyon, to approve all items on the Consent Calendar with the exception of Items 4 (Affordable Housing Loan Agreement with Heritage Housing Partners), 5 (Office Lease Agreement with 199 S.
Los Robles, LLC), and 6 (Purchase Order with General Electric Company to Repair Glenarm Turbine 5). (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
APPROVAL OF KEY BUSINESS TERMS OF AN AFFORDABLE
HOUSING LOAN AGREEMENT WITH HERITAGE HOUSING
PARTNERS FOR A CITY LOAN IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$2,000,000 TO ACQUIRE AND REHABILITATE PROPERTY AT 2318 E. FOOTHILL BOULEVARD FOR OPERATION AS A TEN-UNIT
AFFORDABLE RENTAL HOUSING PROJECT FOR TRANSITION
AGE YOUTH AND AMENDMENTS TO THE HOUSING
DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL YEAR 2024 OPERATING BUDGET
(Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed development of the 10-unit affordable housing project for transition age youth at 2318 E. Foothill Boulevard (the "Project") is exempt from environmental review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per Administrative Code, Title 14, Chapter 3, Article 19, § 15332, Class 32 (In-Fitl Development Projects), and Article 12.5, § 15194 (Affordable Housing Exemption); (2) Approve certain key business terms, as described in the agenda report, of the proposed Affordable Housing Loan Agreement with Heritage Housing Partners in connection with the development of the Project;
(3) Authorize the City Manager to execute any and all documents necessary to effectuate the staff recommendation, including a funding agreement with the County of Los Angeles for a grant in the amount of $1,000,000 which is designated to support the Project (Contract No. 24,028);
(4) Approve a budget amendment appropriating $1,000,000 from the Other Housing Funds Unappropriated Fund Balance (Fund 238) to the Housing Department's Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Operating Budget for the Project; and
Council Minutes506/03/2024
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(5) Approve a budget amendment appropriating $1,000,000 in HOME-ARPA funds from the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) Unappropriated Fund Balance (Fund 221) to the Housing Department's FY 2024 Operating Budget for the Project.
(Budget Amendment No. 2024-49)
Adriana Bautista, Pasadena resident, spoke in support of the staff recommendation for transitional housing, but suggested approval of the item be delayed to thoroughly vet the transfer terms of the contract with hleritage Housing Partners.
Charles Loveman, Heritage Housing Partners, stated he was available to answer questions from the City Council.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that 3 letters related to Item 4, expressing appreciation, gratitude, and support to Heritage Housing Partners for their work in the community, were received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the record for this item.
AUTHORIZATION TO INCREASE THE PURCHASE ORDER FOR AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $4,240,405 WITH GENERAL
ELECTRIC COMPANY TO REPAIR GLENARM TURBINE 5 AND
AMEND THE FISCAL YEAR 2024 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM BUDGET FOR THE WATER AND POWER
DEPARTMENT (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the project in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities);
(2) Authorize the City Manager to increase the purchase order, without competitive bidding pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services, with General Electric Company (dba GE Vernova Operations LLC) by $1,954,985 for emergency repair work to Glenarm Turbine 5 ("GT-5"), thereby increasing the purchase order not-to-exceed total amount from $2,285,420 to $4,240,405;
(3) It is further recommended that the City Council grant the proposed contract an exemption from the Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section 4.08.049(B) contracts for which the City's best interests are served; and
(4) Amend the Fiscal Year 2024 Capital Improvement Program ("CIP") budget by increasing GT-5 Capital Equipment Replacements (3280) by $3,115,000 and decreasing CIP's Emergency Generator (3223), GT-1 and GT-2 Capital Equipment Replacements (3182), and GT-3 and GT-4 Capital Equipment Replacements (3186) by like amount. (Budget Amendment No. 2024-50)
Council Minutes606/03/2024
:
MOTION:
Mayor Gordo stated his
conflict of interest due to
his ownership of rental
units, recused himself,
and left the dais at 5:58
p.m.
MOTION:
REPORTS AND
COMMENTS FROM
COUNCIL COMMITTEES
Economic Development
and Technology
Committee
Mayor Gordo returned to
the dais at 5:59 p.m.
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Cynthia Cannady, Pasadena 100, expressed concerns with the proposed item, suggesting that the City utilize more
environmental friendly alternatives to gas powered energy.
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Jones, to approve Consent Calendar Items 4 and 6. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER A FORTY-MONTH
OFFICE LEASE AGREEMENT WITH 199 S. LOS ROBLES, LLC,
SAND 199 LOS ROBLES, LLC AND ROBLES SM, LLC FOR THE
PREMISES LOCATED AT 199 S. LOS ROBLES AVENUE, SUITE
#350, IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $774,147 FOR THE RENT
STABILIZATION DEPARTMENT (Office of the City Manager)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the leasing of 199 S. Los Robles Avenue is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to the State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Existing Facilities) there are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt classes, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances; and
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter a lease agreement with 199 S. Los Robles, LLC, Sand 199 Los Robles, LLC and Robles SM, LLC in the amount not-to-exceed $774,147 for the office space located at 199 S. Los Rabies Avenue incorporating the terms and conditions generally described in the agenda report, and to execute any other related agreements necessary to effectuate the transaction, including non-substantial revisions. (Contract No. 24,018)
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Rivas, to approve Consent Calendar Item 5. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
ACCEPT AND APPROVE THE CITY OF PASADENA ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN (Office of the City Manager) Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a "project" pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(3) and 15378, and therefore is not subject to environmental review; and
(2) Accept and approve the City of Pasadena Economic Development Strategic Plan.
City Manager Marquez provided introductory comments, and David Klug, Director of Economic Development, provided a brief background on the development process of the Economic Development Strategic Plan.
Council Minutes706/03/2024
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MOTION:
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Councilmember Lyon also shared that the Economic Development and Technology Committee formed an ad hoc task force that collaborated with City staff, the consultants, and community members to work on the Economic Development Strategic Plan.
Larissa Ortiz, Managing Director of Streetsense Public Nonprofit Solutions Team presented a Powerpoint presentation on the methodologies, framework policies, and strategic recommendations for the five-year Economic Development Strategic Plan.
Adriana Bautista, Pasadena resident, expressed support for the adaptive use ordinance and suggested the Council repurpose vacant commercial spaces as affordable housing or housing for the homeless.
Mayor Gordo reported that the Adaptive Use Ordinance will be discussed by the Planning Commission in July 2024 prior to the City Council considering the ordinance.
In response to questions regarding publicly posting the implementation timeline, Ms. Ortiz stated that the recommended performance dashboard allows for transparency and updates on a regular basis.
Councilmember Jones suggested staff utilize the Carbon Free by 2030 Dashboard as a template/interface for the Economic Development Performance Dashboard for ease of access for the public.
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Jones, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
FISCAL YEAR 2025 RECOMMENDED SCHEDULE OF TAXES,
FEES, AND CHARGES (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Tolls, Fares, and Charges);
(2) Open the public hearing on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges; and
(3) Close the public hearing and adopt the FY 2025 Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that the public hearing notice was published in the Pasadena Press on April 22, 2024; he also reported that no correspondence was received by the City Clerk's Office for this item.
Council Minutes806/03/2024
MOTION:
MOTION:
It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by Councilmember Williams, to close the public hearing. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
In response to Councilmember Hampton's concerns regarding the fees for accessory dwelling units (ADD), Matthew Hawkesworth, Acting Assistant City Manager/ Finance Director, stated that the Planning and Community Development Department is currently reviewing the fees, which will be presented to the City Council in the coming months.
Mayor Gordo requested that when ADD fees return, that City staff include additional information regarding the number ofADUs that are used for familial living, as well as the number of homes that are purchased, with the new owner adding an ADU to the property, and then the property is placed back on the market for resale.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by Councilmember Masuda, to approve the staff
recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None) CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING: THE FISCAL YEAR 2025 CITY
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED OPERATING BUDGET
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Sections 15060(c) and 15378(b);
(2) Open the public hearing for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Recommended Operating Budget; and
(3) Continue the public hearing to the regular meeting of the City Council at 5:30 p.m. on June 10, 2024, and such other date as the City Council may determine, at which time the City Council will be asked to close the public hearing and adopt the FY 2025 Recommended Operating Budget.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that the continued public hearing was originally opened on May 6, 2024, and reported on new
correspondence received by the City Clerk's Office, with one letter providing comments related to the Pasadena Police Department, which was distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the record for the item.
City Manager Marquez provided introductory comments, and Matthew Hawkesworth, Acting Assistant City Manager/Finance Director, presented a Powerpoint presentation summarizing feedback received from Council Committees, including direction related to the proposed operating budget. He noted that the budget has been adjusted since May 6, 2024 due to additional grants received, that state budget impacts are not yet known, and responded to questions.
Council Minutes906/03/2024
MOTION:
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Alien Shay, Pasadena resident, requested information on the funding source for the City's payment of claims.
Yadi, residence not stated, expressed her concerns with the City's Shotspotter contract, noting that the budget does not indicate if the pilot project period will be extended, and privacy concerns related to data gathered by license plate readers purchased by the Police Department continues to be an issue.
Adriana Bautista, Pasadena resident, advocated for the John J.
Kennedy and Villa Parke Pools to be funded by the City so that they may remain open on Sundays during the summer, and for the Council to include the Community Police Oversight
Commission recommendations on the IPA be included on the November 2024 ballot to ensure accountability within the Police Department.
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Masuda, to continue the public hearing to June 10, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
PUBLIC HEARING TO APPROVE RECOMMENDED WATER RATE
ADJUSTMENTS (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended adjustments to the water rates are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State C EQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Tolls, Fares, and Charges);
(2) Open a Public hlearing to receive public comment on the recommended water rate adjustments to the City of Pasadena ("City") water rates, and implement the Fiscal Year ("FY") 2025 through FY 2029 rate adjustments effective July 1 of each of these fiscal years, or as soon as practicable thereafter;
(3) Close the Public Hearing and approve the recommended water rate structure and rate adjustments; and
(4) Conduct first reading of an ordinance amending the Water Rate Ordinance, Chapter 13.20 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, implementing the changes to the water rates as determined at this public hearing and described in the agenda report. (To be discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 14, including for public comment purposes.)
City Clerk Jomsky reported that the public hearing notice was mailed on April 12, 2024. He stated that 23 letters in opposition to the proposed water rate adjustments and/or providing comments on the matter, and one letter advocating for easily understandable information regarding the water rate adjustments, were received by the City Clerk's office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
Council Minutes1006/03/2024
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City Manager Marquez introduced the item, and David Reyes, Acting General Manager of Water and Power, introduced the item, along with Stacie Takeguchi and Lynne Chaimowitz, PWP Assistant General Managers, who presented Powerpoint presentation summarizing the City's financial situation in the Water Fund. Steve Gagnon, Raftelis Consultant, presented the process and development of the recommended rate structure design and adjustments, including information on residential/commercial customer under the new rates.
In response to Councilmember Hampton's inquiry regarding the ability to separate meters for multifamily residential properties, Brad Boman, Operations Manager, clarified that while property owners can install submeters, the accounts would be tied to the primary account. He further stated that property owners can install separate meters and services for each individual unit along with installation of backflow devices, which can be an expensive process.
Councilmembers hlampton and Williams both advocated for the issue of separate meters for multifamily residential properties and how rates are passed through to tenants be reviewed by the Municipal Services Committee (MSC) since the process and costs can be prohibitive for property owners and landlords.
In response to Vice Mayor Madison's suggestion to delay the water rate increase for a year or until a new General Manager is hired, City Manager Marquez stated that delaying the process is not financially sustainable since projected expenses for FY 2027 are greater than projected revenues.
In response to Councilmember Lyon's inquiry regarding a partially fixed rate structure versus a completely variable rate structure dependent on usage, Assistant General Manager Chaimowitz noted that a fixed rate pori:ion provides financial stability for revenues that can prudently cover operating costs in the future. She also noted that the proposed structure is a consen/ation rate structure, meaning that variable costs accumulate depending on the amount of water used by customers.
Ken Kules, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns that the proposed rate structure is flawed and fails to encourage conservation, and advocated for limiting the proposal to two years, as well as implement the 2021 commitment of budget- based pricing.
Adriana Bautista, Pasadena resident, advocated to implement the proposed rate structure for one year and asked how the community can protest the water rate increase.
Council Minutes1106/03/2024
MOTION:
D
MOTION:
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Genette Foster, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns
regarding inconsistencies between the water financial plan and the reports Pasadena Water and Power Department presented to the Municipal Services Committee and to the City Council.
Jimmy Kam, residence not stated, suggested a minimal rate increase to meet the budget for the time being, and advocated for the rates to be increased in phases consistent with phases of proposed water projects.
Councilmember Williams reported that the Municipal Services Committee discussed the matter and recommended for the proposed water rate structure design as an interim step to budget-based rates that would be implemented as part of the next rate study.
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Williams, to close the public hearing. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
In response to Councilmember Hampton's inquiry regarding the impact of the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan on the rate increase, Councilmember Williams clarified that the rate increase for the first year (FY2025) would be 13% and would smooth out over the next 5 years if the City successfully obtains the WIFIA loan.
Acting General Manager Reyes further clarified that the application for the WIFIA loan can only be submitted with City Council's approval.
Assistant General Manager Chaimowitz stated that City staff will need to submit a letter of intent prior to applying for the loan and that the process takes approximately 9 months. Acting General Manager Reyes also stated that in order for the WIFIA scenario to be implemented, the rate increase would need to be formally accepted as part of the budget.
Councilmember Hampton expressed support for the submission of an application for the WIFIA loan, however, he stated that he would not be able to support the water rate increase as proposed by staff.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Williams, seconded by Vice Mayor Madison, to approve the staff's
recommendation, with additional direction to staff to apply for, and return next year with an update on, the WIFIA loan; and with staff to return with a proposal on implementing budget-based water rates.
AYES: Councilmembers Jones, Lyon, Masuda, Rivas, Williams, Vice Mayor Madison, Mayor Gordo
NOES Councilmember Hampton
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Council Minutes1206/03/2024
ORDINANCE - FIRST
READING
ORDINANCE-SECOND
READING
PUBLIC HEARING
Conduct first reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA AMENDING THE WATER RATE
ORDINANCE, TITLE 13, CHAPTER 13.20 OF THE PASADENA
MUNICIPAL CODE" (Discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 11, including for public comment purposes.)
The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Williams.
AYES: Councilmembers Jones, Lyon, Masuda, Rivas,
Williams, Vice Mayor Madison, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Councilmember hlampton
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Adoption of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PASADENA
AMENDING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF TITLE 4, CHAPTER 4.100
OF THE PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE TO REFLECT THE MARCH
2024 CHARTER AMENDMENT PERTAINING TO ANNUAL LIGHT
AND POWER FUND TRANSFER" (Introduced by Councilmember
Hampton) (Ordinance No. 7424)
The ordinance above was adopted by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers hlampton, Jones, Lyon, Masuda,
Rivas, Williams, Vice Mayor Madison, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING: PROPOSED STREET NAME
CHANGE TO TROOP WAY - DAYTON STREET BETWEEN FAIR
OAKS AVENUE AND RAYMOND AVENUE (Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed street name change to Troop Way from Dayton Street between Fair Oaks Avenue and Raymond Avenue is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section 15061(b)(3), "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment; as well as under Section 15301 as a minor alteration of an existing facility with no change in capacity; and
(2) Adopt a resolution changing the name of Dayton Street between Fair Oaks Avenue and Raymond Avenue to Troop Way; or
(3) Provide alternate direction.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that the public hearing notice was published on May 2, 2024, in the Pasadena Press. He reported that 19 letters in opposition to the proposed renaming of Dayton Street, eight letters advocating for the City Council to honor the R&B musical group by Council Minutes1306/03/2024
MOTION:
renaming Dayton Street, "Troop Way", one letter in opposition to the potential renaming of Morton Street, and one letter/petition with 18 signatures in opposition to the proposed renaming of Dayton Street, were received by the City Clerk's office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
TonyOlmos, Director of Public Works, provided introductory comments on the item, and Kris Markarian, Deputy Director of Public Works/City Engineer, presented a Powerpoint presentation summarizing the agenda report, with both responding to questions.
Vice Mayor Madison expressed support for honoring the R&B musical group Troop in the City, however, he expressed concerns with the lack of a street renaming policy after reviewing feedback from members of the community.
The following individuals spoke in support of the proposed street renaming of Dayton Street to Troop Way:
Alien Shay, Pasadena resident
Ken Custis, residence not stated
Bryant Williams, residence not stated
Keisha Wilkins, Riverside resident
Olden Denham, Pasadena resident
Don Rodell, Pasadena resident
The following individuals spoke in opposition to the staff recommendation and/or provided various comments on the renaming of Dayton Street to Troop Way:
Aaron Gallardo, Castle Green HOA
Michele Hooker, Pasadena resident
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Williams, to close the public hearing. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
Mayor Gordo stated that there is a distinction to be made between renaming/dedicating streets and rights-of-ways versus buildings or public spaces, noting that the impacts of these actions extend beyond the City.
In response to Councilmember Williams' inquiry regarding the difference between a street naming policy and City's Monument Naming policy, City Manager Marquez and Director Olmos reported that the City does not have an adopted street naming policy and defaults to state laws to rename streets. Councilmember Williams advocated for a way to honor Troop in a manner where people can learn about them and their contributions, similar to the memorial plaque Council Minutes1406/03/2024
MOTION:
in front of the Robinson Memorial, but noted that renaming a street does not widely capture Troop's significance to the City or the Black history on Dayton Street.
In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding the historical concern with renaming Dayton Street, Vice Mayor Madison reported that the Dayton Street is named after the Dayton family, who played a significant role in framing Pasadena. Director Olmos added that the historic portion of the private property on Dayton Street is designated as a historic landmark, but the designation does not apply to the street.
Vice Mayor Madison suggested alternatives to honor Troop, such as placing statues in the Civic Auditorium courtyard or a photo exhibit to highlight their contributions to Pasadena.
Councilmember Rivas and Mayor Gordo expressed the importance of listening to the public in the absence of a policy for street renaming.
Mayor Gordo stated that the lack of guidelines and a process creates difficulty in justifying priority in dedications.
Discussion ensued regarding alternative ways to honor the musical group as an alternative to a street renaming and the dedications the City has implemented in the past.
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Masuda, to approve the staff recommendation to rename Dayton Street to Troop Way.
Vice Mayor Madison cautioned against making a rushed decision, and suggested seeking an alternative approach to honoring Troop, while also committing to do so in meaningful and significant way that captures their story.
In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding City staff collaborating with the applicant on alternative approaches, Director Olmos stated that various departments would be involved in brainstorming ideas, and then after would engage with the applicant to get feedback and input. He further stated that staff will work with the City Manager to identify a path forward in terms of direction given by the City Council.
City Manager Marquez reported that the matter of a policy for street names is scheduled to be taken to the Legislative Policy Committee on July 2, 2024, and stated that it may take some time before the policy is fully developed.
Mayor Gordo disagreed with incorporating a timeframe and recommended that City staff bring the matter back to the Council by the end of the year.
Council Minutes1506/03/2024
SUBSTITUTE MOTION:
SUBSTITUTE MOTION:
ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST:
L^ity ClerkJ^
Following discussion, it was moved by Vice Mayor Madison, seconded by Councilmember Williams, to resolve to honor and recognize Troop in a meaningful way (to be determined), and to utilize the City's Monument Policy as a basis for developing a Street Naming Policy.
AYES: Councilmembers Rivas, Williams, Vice Mayor Madison, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Masuda
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
MOTION FAILED
Councilmember Lyon advocated for separating the two matters of developing a Street Naming Policy and honoring Troop.
Following discussion, Vice Mayor Madison recommended directing staff to report back within 90 days with new recommendations on how best to honor Troop.
Following additional discussion, it was moved by Vice Mayor Madison, seconded by Councilmember Williams, to resolve to honor and recognize Troop in a meaningful way, with City staff to report back within 90 days to provide recommendations and options on how best to honor Troop.
AYES: Councilmembers Lyon, Rivas, Williams, Vice Mayor
Madison, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Masuda
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilmember Hampton recognized all high school and college graduates throughout the community.
On q^der of the Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adjo'urlped at 10:06 p.m.
1^h_
Victor M. Gordo
City of Pasaden
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Council Minutes1606/03/2024