AR 14 SUPP CORR CORRESPONDENCE — Pasadena City Council, July 8, 2024

McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent: Saturday, July 6, 2024 3:28 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse To:

Subject: July 8, 2024. Agenda Item 14 - Charter Amendments [&J CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

I STRONGLY SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CHARTER AMENDMENT TASK FORCE.

YES - CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION LIMITS:
• Task Force recommendation to adopt an ordinance establishing campaign contribution limits at $1,000 per person/entity for Council District races and $2,500 per person/entity for Mayoral races. • Additional Task Force recommendation - City Charter should be amended to include a provision, "If the City Council limits are different than state limits, the ordinance may be amended no earlier than following the 2nd election cycle after its enactment or amendment".

YES-TERM LIMITS FOR MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL (TO BE IMPLEMENTED BY CHARTER AMENDMENT):
• Council Members-no more that 3 consecutive terms and at least a 4-year hiatus after which member may serve 2 additional terms; total term limit of 5 terms in City Council seats. • Mayor - no more that 3 consecutive terms and at least a 4-year hiatus after which member may serve 2 additional terms; total term limit of 5 terms for Mayor.

Genette Foster
Council District 2
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Cc:

Subject:

Colin Bogart
Sunday, July 7, 2024 2:40 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Hampton, Tyron
July 8, 2024 City Council agenda item #14
Some people who received this message don't often get email from , ;n. Learn why this is important [_&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phi sh using the Phi sh Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear Mayor Gordo and City Council Members,
I support term limits and campaign contribution limits as part of City Charter updates. Please vote yes for adding these items to the election ballot this coming fall. The current campaign contribution limits are too high and term limits are necessary for a more responsive City Council and Mayor.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Colin Bogart
District 1 resident, 91103
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Julie McKune
Sunday, July 7, 2024 5:53 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Public Comments, July 8 City Council Mtg.
[_&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear Mayor, City Council Members, and staff/team,
Re: Old Business, Agenda item #14, Charter Study Task Force/Reform I strongly support Campaign Contribution Limits ($2,500 for Mayor & $1,000 for council members) & Term Limits. My hope is that the Pasadena City Council represent all residents/community, not just the few wealthiest families.

I ask that you put these changes on this November's ballot.

I'm opposed to the status quo of our local government.

We all need to contribute to the improvements in our community, to participate, be involved, be aware, and to the development of new policies/guidelines. Create/shape a future Pasadena for all, especially for our youth.

Thank you for your attention,
Julie McKune
Randal Romero
-residents of six decades,
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Gloria Newton
Sunday, July 7, 2024 7:27 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Support for charter amendments regarding campaign contributions and term limits [&,] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0O10263" on the DolT portal.

Dear Mayor Gordo and City Council members,
After reviewing the staff report on the Charter Reform Task Force's final report, I am writing in support of the following recommendations contained regarding term limits and campaign contribution limits. I believe that limits of $1000 per person for council races and $2500 per person for mayoral races is generous, still above other California cities of comparable size and even larger cities in our region (such as the city of Los Angeles). The proposal for terms limits (3 consecutive with the opportunity for 2 more after a break of 4 years) is also generous, allowing a council person 12 to 20 years to have a substantial effect in their district and in the city, and provides some mitigation for the potential stagnancy caused by unending incumbency.

However, I would like to add that my support is that these limits be enacted as amendments to the charter rather than by ordinance. Going through with the charter amendment process ensures that 1) Citizens of Pasadena have the chance to vote on these reforms, which spreads awareness and increases accountability; and 2) these reforms cannot be easily changed by future councils even after the proposed time gap of 1 full election cycle.

I am proud that the citizens serving on the task force and our city staff have done the hard work of researching these policies, discussing the options during their meetings and getting feedback from community members. I am excited that they have come to these conclusions in order to make involvement in city government more accessible to everyday residents. Please support this work by placing these recommendations on the November ballot so that Pasadena voters have a true say in the future of this accessibility.

Thank you for your continued dedication and hard work on behalf of our city.

Sincerely,
Gloria Newton
District 5 resident
Pasadena.CA 91106
********************
1 7/8/2024
lem 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Elbert Newton
Sunday, July 7, 2024 8:29 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: charter amendment: Term limits and campaign contributions [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear City Council and Mayor,
Thank you for your service to the city and for your staffs continued work. We write to submit comments on the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force regarding term limits and campaign contribution limits.

On term limits, we support the recommendation of the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force to amend the City of Pasadena Charter to include the following provisions:

Councilmembers may serve no more than three consecutive terms as Councilmember. At least a four year hiatus is required from the seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms. The total term limit is no more than five terms in Council District seats. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January I, 2025.

The Mayor may serve no more than three consecutive terms. At least a four-year hiatus is required from the Mayor's seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms as Mayor. The total term limit is no more than five terms in the Mayor's seat. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January I, 2025.

On campaign contribution limits, we support the recommended framework of the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force. However, we support the recommended campaign contribution limits as an amendment to the City of Pasadena Charter. Thus we recommend an amendment to impose the following provisions:

A single person or entity may contribute up to $1,000 per election, for Council District races.

A single person or entity may contribute up to $2,500 per election, for Mayoral races.

The above recommendations have profound precedent in local governments throughout Los Angeles County, California, and are supported by research considered by the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force and its thoughtful deliberations.

We appreciate the transparency of the Council's considerations around the City of Pasadena Charter and it's proposed amendments.

Sincerely,
Bert Newton
Pasadena, 91106
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
SONJA K. BERNDT
Pasadena, CA 91107
July 7, 2024
Mayor Victor Gordo (_Y=-'----'----'--'----"--'----'---'------"--'-"'---=:.;...c....=~ Vice Mayor Steve Madison (smadis,m li cit\ol'tksad,:;1:u-;,__.'.) Councilmember Tyron Hampton (Lhanmtun <i cit\ c.Jnas,,d .:,,:_1.:1,:::t) Councilmember Justin Jones (jion-:·s\1'citn1:·nas,1."L::u.11c1) Councilmember Jason Lyon (i lvon dcit\ oli.·\aS~h.h:11,_1.n,.:t) Councilmember Gene Masuda (gnEtsl:da O'Cil \ pfx1s~1dcnu.11ct) Councilmember Jessica Rivas (icri\ ,.:,~ ,i ciI\ o fna::;;1d,::n,1 n,::t) ounc1 mem er e 1cm 1 iams iw1,iicm1s ac1t\nl1x;:;act,:.:r1::.ncl C ·1 b F 1· • w·11· ( • • 1.. • • • • ) By Email
Re: 7/8/2024 City Council Meeting Agenda #14: Letter Supporting Charter Study Task Force Recommendations for Lower Campaign Contribution Limits & Term Limits Dear Mayor Gordo and Members of the City Council:

I have been a resident of Pasadena for 21 years and I live in District 4. I write to urge you to adopt the Charter Study Task Force's recommendations for lower campaign contribution limits and term limits, with the exception that I urge you to go forward with a proposed charter amendment for lower campaign contribution limits rather than implementation by an ordinance.

I. The Task Force's Recommendation to Adopt Much Lower Campaign Contribution Limits in Pasadena
A. Background
The Charter Study Task Force ("Task Force") spent several meetings discussing and debating (1) whether the City's campaign donation limits should be decreased; and (2) if so, should the recommendation be to include lower limits as a proposed charter amendment for the Fall election or should it be to establish lower limits by ordinance voted on by the City Council.
7/8/2024
Item 14
Ultimately, the Task Force voted 7-2 to recommend that the City Council adopt an ordinance establishing campaign contribution limits of $1,000 per person/entity, per election, for Council District races, and $2,500 per person/entity, per election, for Mayoral races. The recommendation is subject to the City Attorney's Office providing a framework to the City Council for enforcement equivalent to, or exceeding, enforcement by the Fair Political Practices Commission, if possible.

The Task Force also recommended the following to prevent arbitrary changes in contribution limits by future seated City Councils: "It is recommended that the City Charter be amended to include a provision, 'If the City Council adopts an ordinance implementing campaign contribution limits different than state limits, the ordinance may be amended no earlier than following the 2nd election cycle after its enactment or amendment.'"
B. Arguments in Favor of Lowering Pasadena's Campaign Contribution Limit
The benefits of lower contribution limits in Pasadena were discussed at length by Task Force members and community members. Arguments supporting much lower campaign contribution limits include the following:
• 77% of Americans believe there should be limits on the amount of money individuals and organizations can spend on political campaigns. (Pew Research Center report 5/2018.)
• Strong and meaningful contribution limits prevent wealthy special interests from having undue influence and prevent even the appearance of undue influence, which erodes public trust in the election process.

High donation limits discourage people who are not wealthy from showing up to vote.
• be empowering small-dollar donors to make an impact in campaigns, and we should be setting the campaign limits low enough to encourage voter participation.
• A reasonable limit of $1000 or lower will go far to increase public trust and voter participation since voters will know that everyone has a voice in Pasadena. • While some may say lowering contribution limits is just a matter of "optics" or a "feel good" measure, if it provides voters with greater confidence in the electoral process that is a benefit.
• High campaign limits discourage people from running for office. • Reducing the limit would encourage candidates to engage with more constituents. 2 • Pasadena is fortunate to have relatively small council districts in which candidates can meet in person with constituents. Large campaign contributions work against this practice by encouraging mass mailings.
• Cities comparable in size to Pasadena have lower campaign donation limits:

Glendale= $1,340; Burbank - $500; Torrance - $1,000; Berkeley= $250. The City of LA has a population of almost $4 million people, yet its limit is $900 for council races and $1,700 for mayoral races.

C. Responses to Arguments Against Decreasing Pasadena's Current Contribution Limit
• Argument: Lowering campaign donation limits will lead to increased donations through the mechanism of independent expenditures (IE's), which decreases transparency. IE's are independent from a candidate's campaign and can be made without the campaign's knowledge. They can be harder to track.

RESPONSE:
o The Task Force studied this issue. Staff and the Task Force's consultant, Baker Tilly, could find no evidence that decreasing donation limits causes an increase in IE' s.
o The evidence actually presented suggested that increased IEs are caused by several factors, especially the issues on the ballot (e.g., cannabis, tenant's rights, public safety, etc.).
o "The Political Reform Act ("Act") requires committees making independent expenditures to file reports so that voters are fully informed about who is paying for the communications that urge voters to support or oppose a particular candidate or measure. The city could easily provide a link to the site where IEs are reported.
o When Jonathan Mehta Stein of Common Cause spoke to the Legislative Policy Committee in 2021, he noted that the issue of independent expenditures is not the problem that some allege. The City could require all IE's to be filed with the Clerk's Office and posted on the City's website. • Argument: Purported increased City cost of enforcement if campaign donation limits are decreased.

Per AB 571, if a local jurisdiction establishes contribution limits other than the statutory default limit, then it is responsible for enforcing it. But if a local jurisdiction does not adopt its own limit, then the CA Fair Political Practices Commission prosecutes violations.
3 RESPONSE:
o According to a staff report for the 5/9/24 Task Force meeting, "It is likely that current staffing could handle such enforcement, initially, with further review of the need based on the matters referred for handling. Part time staff costs for a Deputy City Attorney could range from $50,000 to $100,000 per year, at a minimum." This is miniscule given Pasadena's 2025 approved budget of over $1 billion.
o We're talking about a small number of candidates per cycle here in Pasadena.

Moreover, most candidates scrutinize their disclosure reports to correct any problem before they suffer intense blowback from their opponents. o Many other cities have a much lower campaign donation limit and there was no evidence presented of any increased enforcement cost in those cities.

D. Lowering Campaign Contribution Limits: Charter Amendment v.

Ordinance
While the Task Force recommended implementing lower campaign contribution limits by ordinance, our residents need to be given an opportunity through the Charter amendment process to vote for a $1,000/$2,500 limit (with a provision for adjustment for inflation).

Some or most of our council members have a vested interest in leaving the limit at $5,500. People in power rarely vote to change their own power. Without a Charter amendment decreasing campaign donation limits, the Council could easily arbitrarily increase limits and even could go back and try to get a "no-limit" limit by ordinance again.

However, if and only it the City Council is not inclined to include campaign contribution limits for the Charter amendment process, agendize and adopt an ordinance providing for much lower limits as soon as possible.

II. The Task Force's Recommendation to Adopt Term Limits A. Background
Pursuant to state law, a city can adopt term limits for its officials, but only if it is submitted to the voters of the city at a regularly scheduled election and a majority of the votes cast favor the adoption of the proposal. Pasadena's Charter provides for four-year terms for both Mayor and Councilmembers but does not provide for any limits on the number of terms served.
4 B. Task Force's Recommendation to Amend the City Charter to Provide Term Limits for the Mayor and Councilmembers
The Task Force's consultant, Baker Tilly, reported on nine comparable cities and found that Glendale, Long Beach, and Santa Monica have term limits set at three terms.

Anaheim, Santa Barbara, and Torrance limit their elected officials to two terms. Both Anaheim and Torrance allow Councilmembers who have exhausted all terms to take a hiatus of two years and four years (respectively), and then run again.

On March 14, 2024, Dr. Julian Gold, Mayor of Beverly Hills, and Michael MacDonald, City Clerk of Ventura, spoke to the Task Force via Zoom about the advent of term limits in their respective cities and answered questions from the Task Force. Dr. Gold reported that voters approved the Beverly Hills measure in 2022 by 82%. Mr. MacDonald stated his support for term limits but noted that term limits adopted in 2016 created a high rate of turnover on the Council and resulted in a lack of experienced Councilmembers remaining to lead the City and mentor newer elected officials.

The Task Force recommended that term limits be implemented by Charter amendment as follows:

Councilmembers:

Can serve no more than three consecutive terms as Councilmember. At least a four-year hiatus is required from the seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms. The total term limit is no more than five terms in Council District seats. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit.

Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

Mayor:

Can serve no more than three consecutive terms. At least a four-year hiatus is required from the Mayor's seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms as Mayor. The total term limit is no more than five terms in the Mayor's seat. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

The Task Force Recommended that the following be implemented by policy, not charter amendment:
• The City Council should adopt policies to formalize a Council-driven public information process to encourage and inform community members to consider running for office.
• The City Council should adopt a well-designed onboarding process for new Councilmembers.
5 C. Arguments in Favor of Term Limits
• Term limits have broad public appeal. Among Los Angeles County voters, 78% said they strongly or somewhat favor term limits for local elected offices. (LA Times, 6/18124.) 87% of adults favor limiting the number of terms for members of Congress. (Pew Research Center, 2023.)
• Two members of the Pasadena City Council have been in office for more than 20 years.
• They increase the opportunity for new voices and perspectives, fresh thoughts, fresh approaches. They get new (and younger) people involved in local government.
• They can encourage elected officials to be more responsive to constituents rather than institutional interests.
• They can increase voter interest because they provide a wider array of choices. • In the 2020 general election, 93% of incumbents nationwide won their re-election bids. (Ballotpedia.) Incumbency is an advantage that makes change difficult, even as the demographics or other characteristics of a district may change. • Incumbency may result in an unfair playing field for challengers because incumbents generally have better access to donors than new candidates. • Term limits would limit the influence of lobbyists and reduce the power of special interests. Special interests direct many of their efforts toward keeping certain people in power and their influence on elected officials is a detriment to democracy.
• Being termed out makes it easier to advocate for change. When your term is ending, it is easier to take necessary, but politically unpopular, positions.

III. Conclusion
In conclusion, for the foregoing reasons, I urge the City Council to propose Charter amendments for this Fall's election proposing lower campaign contribution limits and term limits as discussed in this letter. Thank you for your consideration of this letter. 6 Sincerely,
Isl
Sonja K. Berndt
Pasadena
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

John Doyle
Monday, July 8, 2024 7:18 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Term Limits and Campaign Contribution Limits
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from • important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification] . Learn why this is
[&,] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear Pasadena City Council,
I am strongly in support of campaign contribution limits as well as term limits. The City deserves more diverse opinions as well as the ability to nurture different ideas from the people of Pasadena.

I know it is hard to raise money and painful, but it is more Democratic to raise money from small donors than large special interest groups that do not necessarily have the people's best interests in mind.

Best,
John Doyle
District 4 City Council Candidate
John Doyle (he/him/his)
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette {Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Attachments:

Andy Wilson
Monday, July 8, 2024 7:21 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Public comment for item #14: CONSIDERATION OF CHARTER STUDY TASK FORCE

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR POSSIBLE CHARTER AMENDMENT MEASURE(S) TO SUBMIT TO VOTERS ON THE NOVEMBER 5, 2024 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION BALLOT; AND DIRECTION TO CITY STAFF ON THE P ...

Pasadena Now Guest Opinion_ Andy Wilson_ Why Pasadena Leaders Should Embrace Term Limits - Pasadena Now.pdf
[&,] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear Council and Staff -
Please review my recently published Pasadena Now opinion piece in favor of establishing reasonable term limits and including this measure on the fall ballot.

Full article attached as PDF (staff- please print 4 pages) and also at: https ://www .pasadena now .com/main/guest-opinion-a ndy-wilson-why-pasadena-leade rs-should embrace-term-li m its_
I encourage you to show leadership on this issue (as well as the other thoughtful recommendations from the Charter Study Task Force on which I had the privilege of serving) as compelling evidence of your commitment to enhance public trust and confidence in our electoral process. Please note that my comments are as an individual and not in any formal capacity as a member of the Task Force.

Thank you for your consideration and your service.

Andy
Andy Wilson
Founder & Managing Partner
Momentum Venture Management LLC
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyWilsoninnovator/
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
7/8/24, 7:04AM Guest Opinion I Andy Wilson: Why Pasadena Leaders Should Embrace Term Limits - Pasadena Now Your Child's Best
Future Starts
Here this
Summer

LATEST GUIDES
Homeofthe
Week: Tranquil
Sierra Madre
Retreat
The Best Events
In Pasadena
This Weekend
Pasadena
Library Invites
Young Readers
to Practice
Virtual Guide to Pasadena Area Schools
Descanso
Gardens Will
Unveil New
Railroad
Attraction
New Breakfast
Burrito
Restaurant to
Openin
Pasadena
Ten Thousand
Villages and
Pasadena
Humane Partner
Your Chil<
Guest Opinion I Andy Wilson: Why
Pasadena Leaders Should Embrace
Term Limits

BY ANDY WILSON
Published on Monday, July 8, 202414:11 am
f
https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/gue~t-:lpi~,icn-a;idy-wi'!. 1n-wby-pasadena-leaders-should-embrace-•p:rm-limits PasadE
&Desi!
Retur
Exp.

OffE
l/l6
7/8/24, 7:04AM Guest Opinion I Andy Wilson: Why Pasadena Leaders Should Embrace Term Limits - Pasadena Now The City of Pasadena stands at a pivotal moment as it updates its foundational governing framevrnrk: the City Charter (originally adopted in 1901 and last meaningfully updated 25 years ago). As a member of the Charter Reform Task Force, I urge the City Council to include the proposed term limits for City Council members, including the Mayor on the fall ballot. This thoughtfully developed recommendation calls for a maximum of three terms, and alknvs for a potential return for hvo additional terms after a four-year hiatus. After five terms, the official would be ineligible to seek the previously held office again. The Task Force settled on this measured approach after revie\-ving best practices with the goal of balancing the benefits of accumulated experience with the benefits of injecting new diverse perspectives. \Ve believe this path will invigorate our local government, ensure diverse and representative leadership, and foster greater trust in our political system.

Injecting Fresh Ideas and Perspectives
One of the most compelling reasons to implement term limits is the infusion of fresh ideas and perspectives into our local government. Long-term incumbency can lead to stagnation, where innovative solutions and new approaches to persistent problems are stifled. By setting reasonable term limits, ,vc create a regular opportunity for new leaders '"rith diverse backgrounds and experiences to bring forward novel ideas and strategies. This dynamic change can lead to more effective governance, responsive to the evolving needs of our community.

Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership
Term limits can also pave the way for a broader and more diverse set of leaders to serve Pasadena. Our city is a mosaic of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. "'vVe are fortunate to have improved representation over the years, but I know we can continue to do better especially with our gender mix.

However, without term limits, the same individuals can dominate the political landscape, limiting opportunities for emerging leaders from underrepresented communities. Though I have great respect for those ·who have served the City for decades, I am confident if these seats ,vere to turn over in a measured fashion ,\'e would be impressed by the enthusiastic and fresh faces who would vie to serve. By implementing reasonable term limits, we open the door to a wider array of voices, ensuring that our leadership reflects the rich diversity of our population while maintaining sufficient longevity to preserve valuable institutional knowledge. This inclusivity can lead to more comprehensive and equitable policies that address the needs of all residents.

Mitigating the Incumbency Advantage
h ttps :/ /www .pasadenanow: . om/main/ guest-opi 1i on--2 ;-;dy-wi l son-w h y-pasadeu.-kad~rer ,ihould-e:t!-',race-term-limi ts ,•, 2/l6 7/8/24, 7:04AM Guest Opinion I Andy Wilson: Why Pasadena Leaders Should Embrace Term Limits - Pasadena Now The incumbency advantage is a well-documented phenomenon in California municipal elections, where approximately 90% of incumbents are re-elected. This advantage often stems from greater name recognition, established donor networks, and the ability to leverage the resources of the office. While experience is valuable, perpetual incumbency can discourage qualified challengers from running, stifling healthy competition. Term limits \rnuld help level the playing field, encouraging more candidates to participate and invigorating the democratic process. This increased competition can lead to more robust debate, better policies, and a government that better serves its constituents.

Building Trust and Confidence in Our Political System
In an era ,vhere trust in government is waning, term limits can enhance transparency and accountability, thereby helping restore public confidence. When officials knmv their time in office is finite, they may be more motivated to act in the public's best interest rather than entrenching their political careers.

Furthermore, the recent poll conducted by Berkeley researchers on behalf of the Evelyn and Walter .Jr.

Haas Fund found that approximately 75% of Republicans, Democrats, and nonpartisan voters favor restricting how long key local officials should serve. The preferred limit among respondents would be two four-year terms (eight years total), the poll found. Similarly, corporate board of directors seem to share this perspective as the average tenure of a Fortune 500 CEO is just shy of eight years. This bipartisan support underscores a collective desire for change and a more accountable government.

The Risks of not Acting
Ignoring this sentiment could lead to voter-initiated ballot measures that impose more stringent term and campaign limits than those recommended by the Task Force (witness local rent control (Measure H) which is still being navigated). By
proactively adopting these reasonable limits, the City Council can demonstrate its commitment to responsive and responsible governance based on thoroughly vetted best practices versus opening the door to well-intentioned activists who might opt for "rough justice" solutions that may lack the guardrails currently being proposed. Strong self1ess leadership is certain to result in a more favorable and timely outcome.

A Personal Perspective
As a former City Councilmember in Pasadena, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities within our local government. I believe that term limits will not only enhance the effectiveness of our elected officials but also encourage a more engaged and participatory electorate. We h'.t'.:"'//www.pasadenanow.com/main/guest-op,n: • n-andy-wilson-why-pas~bna-leaders-sh_ould-embsac,e-trn:ns'.imits •· d, 3/16 7/8/24, 7:04AM Guest Opinion I Andy Wilson: Why Pasadena Leaders Should Embrace Term Limits - Pasadena Now know that the public's confidence in government is a direct reflection of the fairness and transparency of the system. I realize none of these measures alone are any type of silver bullet but collectively they demonstrate a commitment to improving both the perception and reality of our electoral system. Some say term limits restrict voter's choice, I say put your personal agendas aside and let the uol"e1·s decide this crucial issue.

Andy Wilson served as City Councilmember District 7 2015 - 2022 including 2 years as Vice JWayor. He served on the recently concluded Charter Study Task Force though this editorial is written by him as cm individual and not in cm.yf()nnal capacity.
[http:/ /huntingtonhealth.org/surgery]
-= ~ Get our daily Pasadena newspaper in your email box. Free.

Get all the latest Pasadena news, more than 10 fresh stories daily, 7 days a week at 7 a.m, Subscribe
• email address
htt::,s://www.pasa,le1.mow.•:om/main/guest-opinion-andy-wilson, :.rhy-pasadena-lead;,rsashc,;ld-embrace-term-limits., ... 4/16 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: Andrew Good
Sent:

To:

Subject:

Monday, July 8, 2024 9:23 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Agenda item 14
Some people who received this message don't often get email from 1. Learn why this is important [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phi sh using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear City Council and Mayor,
Thank you for your service to the city and for your staff's continued work. We write to submit comments on the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force regarding term limits and campaign contribution limits.

On term limits, we support the recommendation of the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force to amend the City of Pasadena Charter to include the following provisions:

Councilmembers may serve no more than three consecutive terms as Councilmember. At least afour year hiatus is required from the seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms. The total term limit is no more than jive terms in Council District seats. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

The Mayor may serve no more than three consecutive terms. At least a four-year hiatus is required from the Mayor's seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms as Mayor. The total term limit is no more than jive terms in the Mayor's seat. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

A single person or entity may contribute up to $1,000 per election, for Council District races.

A single person or entity may contribute up to $2,500 per election, for Mayoral races.

We appreciate the transparency of the Council's considerations around the City of Pasadena Charter and it's proposed amendments.

Sincerely,
Andrew Good
Council District 3
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: cityclerk
Sent: Monday, July 8, 2024 9:39 AM
To: Iraheta, Alba; Jomsky, Mark; Robles, Sandra; Sabha, Tamer; McMillan, Acquanette (Netta); Kenebrew, Jerice; Soo, Christine; Haskett, John Subject: FW: For city council meeting today
From: Ellen Finkelpearl
Sent: Monday, July 8, 2024 9:38:35 AM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: cityclerk <[email protected]>
Subject: For city council meeting today
You don't often get email from .earn whv this is important [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phi sh Alert Button view article "KB0O1O263" on the DolT portal.

Mr. Mayor and City Councilmembers:

I am writing to urge you to adopt the recommendations of the Charter Task force on campaign finance limits and term limits. The task force devoted countless hours to their work, and they were appointed by you, so it was upsetting to see some of you rejecting their recommendations at a recent meeting, asserting that these were solutions looking for a problem.

On the topic of campaign finance, Common Cause and other groups have shown that contribution limits do help level the playing field, allowing a broader range of candidates to compete with those who have access to deep pockets. Some of you have noted that the city council currently is very diverse racially, but that will not necessarily always be the case, and, as Felicia Williams pointed out, there are currently only two women on the council, soon to be reduced to one. Limiting individual contributions to $1000 for city council candidates rather than the state-mandated $5500, as recommended by the Task Force, will allow for a larger pool of potential candidates to feel they can compete. Further, limits on contributions avoid undue influence by wealthy donors, or at least avoid the appearance of undue influence.

The lower limit also empowers small donors, giving them a sense that they can participate in the electoral process, that their contributions mean something. I take it as a given that we all believe elections should not be bought; while federal regulations have limited our power to keep PAC money and IE's out of politics, we need to do what we can, and at least ensure that small donors can have a voice in our elections.

On the subject of Independent Expenditures, it is discouraging, to say the least, to hear the mayor and people on the council still invoking the specter of IE's to argue that campaign contribution limits are pointless because IE's would simply increase. The Task Force did a thorough study of this issue and found NO connection between lower campaign finance limits and increased IE's. Are you going to pay any attention to the thorough work of the Task Force?
Campaign finance limits are broadly popular; when brought to a vote, voters in Alhambra overwhelmingly approved a $250 per person limit. 77% of US citizens approve of such limits. You have already heard 1 7/8/2024
Item 14
multiple times from us that the city of LA has a limit of $1000 and that many neighboring cities have instituted limits much lower than the state mandated $5500-and indeed much lower than what the Task Force has recommended!
While the Task Force advised that these limits be codified as an Ordinance rather than a Charter Amendment, many of us fear that the issue will simply be brushed aside or will be easily eliminated if it is approved by Ordinance rather than Charter. Why not get this done while you are amending the Charter? Similarly, we need term limits for City Council and Mayor. The proposal is already rather generous, in allowing for 12 consecutive years and then after a break, another 8. Twenty years is a very long time! Presidents of the US are only allowed 8! I understand that there is a steep learning curve and that we need some people on the council with experience. But we need new blood and currently we need turnover to allow for adequate representation by women! It is very rare in Pasadena for incumbents to be voted out, perhaps simply because most voters don't pay much attention to the city council. I agree with councilmember Lyons who countered Mayor Gordo's assertion that we'd like the surgeon with 20 years experience rather than the one with 8. New people contribute new voices and are in touch with more recent developments.

As a final side note, the recommendation that a candidate for City Council needs to live in the district for a minimum of 6 months should absolutely be adopted.

Likewise, reject landlord revisions to Measure H which was approved by petition and voters! Will Pasadena be branded as a conservative elitist city if these measures are rejected after being recommended by the Task Force? Approval of the measures for campaign finance reform and term limits will advance the image of Pasadena as an inclusive and forward-looking city.

Thank you.

Ellen Finkelpearl
Pasadena Resident
Officer of Democrats of Pasadena Foothills
Professor Emerita of Classics, Scripps College
2 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Mark Maier
Monday, July 8, 2024 9:51 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Comment on July 8 City Council meeting agenda on charter amendments [Some people who received this message don't often get email from important at https:/ /aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification] Learn why this is
[_&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

As a long-time resident of Pasadena, I urge the Council to support the amendment to the City charter that will lower campaign contribution limits to $1000 for Council contests and $2000 for Mayoral contests.

We can support the current high participation by citizens in Pasadena affairs by encouraging personal contact by political candidates with constituents. Lower contribution limits is one step in that direction.

Sincerely,
Mark Maier
Pasadena 91104
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Stella Murga
Monday, July 8, 2024 10:10 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Public Comment for July 8, 2024 City Council Meeting on Charter Reform (Agenda Item #14)
Some people who received this message don't often get email from _earn why this is important [&1 CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content i~ safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0O1O263" on the DolT portal.

First of all, my husband and I appreciate the opportunity to address the mayor and city council members on the following impactful matters.

We urge the City Council to adopt new term limits for City Council members and the Mayor, on the Fall ballot as proposed by Pasadena's Charter Task Force, which calls for a maximum of three terms, and allows for a potential return for two additional terms after a four-year hiatus. After five terms, the official would be ineligible to seek the previously held office again.

We believe this proposal will allow adequate time for those elected to serve and provide the Pasadena residents with their knowledge, expertise and experience. Term limits also provide Pasadena residents with greater opportunities to benefit from new, diverse perspectives, which will also encourage greater civic participation and build confidence in our political system.

We also believe that Pasadena's election campaigns have allowed too much money to play an outsized role in the selection of candidates, limiting who can run for office.

More reasonable campaign contribution limits of $2,500 for mayor and $1,000 for council members should be adopted, so that candidates can be judged by their abilities to represent their constituents rather than on their ability to raise money. Larger donations allow for those with the financial means to have greater influence on the candidates.

Respectfully,
Arthur & Stella Murga
Pasadena, CA 91104
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Norma E. Fernandez
Monday, July 8, 2024 10:19 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Public comment on Agenda Item #14 (7 /8/24 meeting)
Some people who received this message don't often get email from important
.earn why this is
[&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phi sh Alert Button. For more information about the Phi sh Alert Button view article "KB0O1O263" on the DolT portal.

Dear Pasadena City Council Members,
In response to agenda item #14 (city charter reform), I'd like to express my support for term limits and campaign contribution limits. To ensure a democratic process that is transparent, accountable, and functioning, we need policies such as term and contribution limits in place.

I urge you to also support the reforms for our city's charter.

Sincerely,
Norma
Pasadena resident (District 4)
Former chair of the Commission on the Status of Women
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Christine Harris
Monday, July 8, 2024 10:27 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Public Comment for Pasadena City Council meeting on 7 /8/24 Some people who received this message don't often get email from Learn why this is important [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Hello,
This comment would go under the category of General Comment.

The items to be considered by the Charter Reform Task force include nothing that would make the elections for city council positions less expensive and nothing that would result in a better voter turnout. While the Task Force's options for recommending any real change in the way elections are run may currently be limited by what the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk currently allows for, it should be noted that things, including the options allowed by Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk, are always evolving. With that said, I feel it is foolish for the Pasadena City Council Charter Reform Task force not to agendize talking about how Pasadena City Council might transition to other more cost effective and fair ways to elect the council members.

Proportional Ranked Choice Voting should be considered in such a discussion as it is being successfully implemented in cities and states across the country.

Thank you,
Christine Harris
Pasadena resident
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Gabriela Barron-Herrera
Monday, July 8, 2024 10:49 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Supporter of term limits for elected officials and reasonable campaign contribution limits
Some people who received this message don't often get email froll" rn why this is important [,&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Topic: Supporter of term limits for elected officials and reasonable campaign contribution limits ($2,500 for mayors & $1,000 for council members)
Dear Mayor and Council Members,
I am a Pasadena resident and a mother of two young children. I am a strong supporter of term limits for elected officials and of campaign contribution limits. The discussion on adopting these very important issues has been ongoing in Pasadena for too long and It's been ignored by our current officials. No more. The time is now for a well needed change. My children need a positive outlook for their future now.

Pasadena has not formally moved to allow voters to vote on term limits for elected officials and on campaign contribution limits. We must be given the same consideration and right as many other cities throughout Californias that established term limits for publicly elected government officials and established limits on their campaign contributions.

I believe together with other strong advocates for these issues that these changes are the most effective ways to ensure that we have fresh and diverse perspectives and experiences represented on the Council. Term limits will help counteract the strong inertia of incumbency, and a limit on campaign contributions will help level the playing field between candidates.

If there are term limits for the Presidency and California's state elected officials that should be good enough for Pasadena. This matter should not be controversial. I question any person who opposes it What would be their real agenda? It certainly isn't for the common good.

The time is now! Please vote to include term limits and campaign contribution limits (as set forth in the Charter Reform Task Force's recommendation) as proposed amendments to our City's Charter for this November's election so the residents of this City have the opportunity to vote on them.

Respectfully,
M Gabriela Herrera-Barron
Gabriela Barron
Pasadena, CA 91107
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette {Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Raul Ibanez
Monday, July 8, 2024 11 :13 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
07 /08/24 Public Comment - Item 14
Some people who received this message don't often get email from 1. Learn why this is important [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Hello,
My name is Raul Ibanez, I am an 18-year District 5 Pasadena Resident, City Commissioner, and full-time employee of Pasadena City College. I am writing to let you know I strongly support City Council term limits and a lowering of the campaign contributions max to $1,000.00. It is imperative this is approved as it will provide a more accurate capturing of elected officials that equitably serve Pasadena residents and provide a higher and cleaner standard of service.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Raul
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:
mb kalis ·
Monday, July 8, 2024 11 :20 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: charter updates- term limits/ campaign contrbutions Some people who received this message don't often get email from r _earn why this is important L&.1 CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

I do not like mandatory term limits. They disenfranchise voters; also, experience is an important part of serving the community. Maybe having a required break between without completely ending eligibility is a useful compromise.

There may be a need to adjust for inflation and its cost of campaigning without making the positions open only to those with higher financial sources.

Thank you for this opportunity to participate in the project. (Ms) MB Kalis _ Pasadena 91106
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Rody Stephenson ·
Monday, July 8, 2024 11 :20 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
For agenda item 14 for tonight's CC meeting
Some people who received this message don't often get email from t. Learn why this is important L&J CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phi sh Alert Button. For more information about the Phi sh Alert Button view article "KB0O1O263" on the DolT portal.

I support the 3-term limit, and reducing the campaign contributions to $1000 maximum per election.

Rhoads
R. Rhoads
CA 91101
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Adry Hezekiah
Monday, July 8, 2024 11 :28 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
July 8th Council Agenda - term/contribution limits ...
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from; important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification]

1. Learn why this is
[&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Good afternoon,
I am reaching out today to add my voice to the folks speaking today in favor of both term, and contribution limits.

The current city campaign contribution limit is so high - higher than larger surrounding cities even! This seems like a very unleveled playing field for all candidates involved & a real disservice to constituents if their representatives can just be bought by the highest bidders.

As for term limits, it just makes sense, especially in such a rapidly changing world where uncomfortable/tense conversations & some tough decision making is necessary. It will likely be a big help to stop stagnation of ideas and could even speed up slow or stalled out action.

I've been a bit of a curmudgeon myself in all my years & have often been an "it's historic...we've always done it this way ... let's not ruffle too many feathers ... " kind of person but we need some changes.

Climate catastrophe, environmental destruction, housing monopolization & exorbitant rents, and more are a real problem and hopefully contribution and term limits help get new voices and ideas into city hall and working for the families and everyday people in our city.

I see and hear the fear, anxiety, and deep depression around the way things are right now from not just friends and colleagues, but even my own teenage children and their friends.

My shot at ever having my own home or even rental apartment might be a lost cause & I may not see a lot of quickly apparent positive environmental changes in my time but I'm done with "it's always been this way" and ready to support new ideas for the sake of the next generation.

Thank you for taking the time to read my comment.

Sincerely,
Adry Hezekiah
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Bin Lee
Monday, July 8, 2024 11 :36 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Council Meeting Item #14
Some people who received this message don't often get email from ' earn why this is important [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phi sh using the Phi sh Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear city council,
I support term limits for councilmembers. Maximum three terms.

Thanks for your time,
Bin Lee
District 1 homeowner
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
Jomsky, Mark
Subject: FW: Charter Reform for Term Limits and Campaign Contribution Limits Importance: High
From: mariacastellon -
Sent: Monday, July 8, 2024 11:19 AM
To: PublicComment-AutoResponse <[email protected]> Cc:

Subject: Charter Reform for Term Limits and Campaign Contribution Limits Importance: High
Dear Mayor Gordo and City Council Members,
I am writing to express my thoughts on two important subjects related to charter reform: term limits for councilmembers and campaign contribution limits.

Firstly, I want to extend my gratitude to each of you for stepping up and representing the residents of Pasadena. We deeply appreciate and honor your dedication to our community.

As our city's culture and landscape grow and change, so too should our representatives. I firmly believe that councilmembers should not be allowed to serve indefinitely. The role of a councilmember should not be viewed as a career position but rather as an opportunity to serve the community and ensure that our city council remains a clear representation of the diverse voices within Pasadena. If, by chance, no candidate steps forward to run for a particular district, then I support the idea of the current councilmember running for another term once their current term is over. However, those who wish to continue serving our community after being termed out can certainly find other valuable ways to contribute.

Additionally, I believe the current campaign contribution limit of $5,500 should be lowered.

Reducing this limit would create a more equitable environment, allowing residents of Pasadena to fairly run for office. A lower contribution limit would help foster a more diverse city council, reflective of our community's varied perspectives and backgrounds.

Thank you for considering my views on these important issues. I look forward to seeing how our city continues to evolve with thoughtful and inclusive representation.

Best regards,
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
Marfa G. Castellon (she/her/ella)
asadena, CA 91106
2 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From: cityclerk
Sent: Monday, July 8, 2024 1 :17 PM
To: Iraheta, Alba; Jomsky, Mark; Robles, Sandra; Sabha, Tamer; McMillan, Acquanette (Netta); Kenebrew, Jerice; Soo, Christine; Haskett, John Subject: FW: July 8, 2024 Pasadena City Council - Public Comment, Agenda 14 (Let the Voters Decide on Term Limits & Campaign Finance Limits)
From: Una Jost
Sent: Monday, July 8, 2024 1:17:10 PM (UTC-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada) To: cityclerk <[email protected]>; Gordo, Victor <[email protected]>; Hampton, Tyron <[email protected]>; Williams, Felicia <[email protected]>; Jones, Justin <[email protected]>; Masuda, Gene <[email protected]>; Rivas, Jessica <[email protected]>; Madison, Steve <[email protected]>; Lyon, Jason <[email protected]>
Subject: July 8, 2024 Pasadena City Council - Public Comment, Agenda 14 (Let the Voters Decide on Term Limits & Campaign Finance Limits)
Some people who received this message don't often get email from , important
/0
Learn why this is
[&,] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Greetings Councilmembers,
I'm Una Lee Jost, long-time resident of the City of Pasadena District 4 and PUSD parent leader.

Thank you for your service to the city and for your staff's continued work. I write to submit comments on the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force recommendations regarding term limits and campaign finance limits.

Please vote YES to include term limits AND campaign finance limits as a charter amendment not an ordinance.

On TERM LIMITS, I support the recommendation of the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force to amend the City of Pasadena Charter to include the following provisions:
"Councilmembers may serve no more than three consecutive terms as Councilmember. At least a four year hiatus is required from the seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms. The total term limit is no more than five terms in Council District seats. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025."
"The Mayor may serve no more than three consecutive terms. At least a four-year hiatus is required from the Mayor's seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms as Mayor. The total term limit is 1 7/8/2024
Item 14
no more than five terms in the Mayor's seat. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025." On CAMPAIGN FINANCE LIMITS, I support the recommended framework of the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force; however, I support the recommended campaign finance limits as an AMENDMENT to the City of Pasadena Charter. Thus I recommend a charter amendment to impose the following provisions:
- A single person or entity may contribute up to $1,000 per election, for Council District races. - A single person or entity may contribute up to $2,500 per election, for Mayoral races.

Such limits have profound precedent in local governments throughout Los Angeles County, California, and are supported by research considered by the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force and its thoughtful deliberations. I am in agreement that Pasadena's current campaign finance limit of $5500 is too high. 23% of all California cities have campaign finance limits and $1,000 is the average for cities our size. Burbank has $500 limits.

Moreover, Pasadena voters need to be given an opportunity through the Charter amendment process to vote on campaign finance limits because some of our council members have a vested interest in leaving Pasadena's limit at the current $5,500 state default limit (even though the limit of $5500 per contributor was designed for statewide races and is excessive for a city council race in a moderate sized city such as ours).

In addition, without a charter amendment decreasing campaign finance limits, the Council could go back and try to get a "no-limit" limit by ordinance again. As you may recall, the Council's previous effort to get a "no-limit" limit by ordinance resulted in a huge public outcry with an October 2021 Open Letter published in Pasadena Now signed by more than a hundred Pasadena community leaders and residents (see "We Get Letters: Community Leaders, Advocates, and Residents Urge Mayor, Council to Pass Campaign Finance Reform Measure" published in Pasadena Now, available at <https :/ /www. pa sad e na now. com/ma i n/we-get-lette rs-ope n-lette r-to-pasade na-ma_y.Q_r-victor-gordo-_ and-city-councilmembers-to-lead-pasadenas-figbt-for-a-truly-inclusive-government-by-implementing:
urgently-needed-campaign-finance-re>.

REQUEST
In light of the above, I urge the Council to:
(i) Adopt the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force's recommendation to amend the City of Pasadena Charter to include the above-referenced Task Force recommended provisions pertaining to imposing term limits on both Councilmembers and the Mayor; and
(ii) Allow Pasadena voters an opportunity through the Charter amendment process to vote for a $1000/$2500 limit (with some clause for adjustment for inflation), and that such vote should be on the November 2024 ballot.

I believe the above recommended term limits and campaign finance limits are effective ways to ensure that we have fresh and diverse perspectives and experiences represented on the Council, help counteract the strong inertia of incumbency, and level the playing field between candidates. 2 Importantly, adopting such measures would engender public trust in Pasadena city leaders and candidates and increase voter participation, and help create a City that is truly more inclusive of everyone.

Kind regards,
~ Una Lee Jost, Resident of Pasadena, District 4
3 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta}
From:

Sent:

To:

Cc:

Blair Miller
Monday, July 8, 2024 1 :17 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Ken Chawkins
Subject: Comments on Charter Study Task Force - Item #14 on July 8, 2024 agenda [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Councilmembers and Chair Chawkins,
I want to thank the Task Force members for their efforts on this complicated issue of government reform. As we have all had the opportunity to discover through their careful work, something that seems like a straightforward "good idea" can turn out to be more complicated to implement than previously understood, once the costs and consequences are reviewed.

Here are my comments on specific Task Force recommendations:
1) Vacancy Appointment Process and Special Election
I reluctantly support the Task Force recommendation. These lengthy appointments are in opposition to the ideal of representative government, but the potential costs of the special elections are too high.

However, if there is a Mayoral election on an odd year (see #6 below) that could be used as an opportunity to have an election sooner than two years, depending on the timing. 2) Charter Language regarding Mayoral Vacancy
I support the alternative discussed in the staff report to allow a candidate seeking to fill a Mayoral vacancy, who receives a 50%+1 majority of the total votes cast in the Primary municipal election, to begin serving the remaining unexpired term upon certification of the election results. 3) Term Limits for Mayor and City Council
I would prefer four total terms for both City Council and Mayor, not five, but the Task Force proposal is better than the status quo.
4) Campaign Contribution Limits
The goal, of course, is to ensure that campaign contributions do not unduly influence politician's decisions, and do not allow rich people and organizations to have more power than voters. The problem is that the Supreme Court has (effectively) ruled that Pasadena voters may not set a limit on independent expenditures. This leads to a conundrum - the more we limit individual contributions, the more potential power the independent expenditures have.

My preference would be to have the same limit for both Councilmembers and Mayor, and to make it $2,000 per person for both. Trust me, I would like nothing better than to advocate for contributions to be limited to $250, but we are dealing with an unfortunate reality, and I think that is the best solution to level the playing field.
5) City Council Compensation
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
From observing and speaking with Councilmembers, the time required to do the job properly is at least 20 hours per week, and at least 30 hours during a Councilmember's first term if they are still learning about the City and its issues. This makes it very challenging for people who are not independently wealthy or retired to manage the City Council job along with a job that pays enough to support living in Pasadena, which can be very expensive.

I urge the City Council to consider significantly increasing compensation in order to make City Council a realistic option for people who are younger and have a variety of life experiences.

This would enable our leadership to better reflect the City as a whole, and I think this is a critical opportunity that would not significantly impact the annual budget. I also think the compensation committee should be meeting every 2 years to review potential cost-of-living adjustments.
6) Timing of Mayoral Elections
The Mayor should be elected in an odd-numbered year, so it does not disadvantage City Council members in certain districts to run for that office. I understand that the costs involved are challenging, but the current system unfairly penalizes experienced Councilmembers (who are in the best position to run for Mayor) who happen to live in certain districts.

Thank you for your consideration of my comments.

Blair Miller
2 McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Rose Eustachio
Monday, July 8, 2024 1 :02 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Tonight's Vote
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification ]
Learn why this is important
[&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Hello,
I reside at in Pasadena. I am responding to Councilwoman Jessica Rivas's request for votes for tonight's meeting. I wanted to cast my vote for no on both questions.

Thank you,
Rose
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Rashna D
Monday, July 8, 2024 11 :58 AM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Subject: Charter Reform Term Limits & Campaign Contribution Limits Some people who received this message don't often get email from , .earn why this is important [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Hello,
In regards to term limits for city council members there should absolutely be term limits and no one person should be allowed to serve indefinitely.

In regards to campaign contribution limits I think $5,500 is a high number and most working class do not donate so much. The campaign contribution limit should be lowered so that wealthy donors do not have greater influence over our elected officials. For our local city government to remain for the people by the people we need to lower the campaign contribution limit and encourage more small dollar donations.

Thank You,
Rashna Dordi
Pasadena Resident of District 5
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
From: danidle laocoo
To: Pub!icComm<'nt -AutoReSPQnse
Subject: Fwd: MONDAY NIGHT - let the City Council know what you think about term limits & campaign contribution limits
Date: Monday, July 8, 2024 12:21:47 PM
Some J:)€'ople wh0 received th!~ rn;;,ssage don't often get emad from imp;,;,41nt
~
[ ] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the internet Do not did links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report ph1sh using the Phish Alert Button. For rr.ore mformation about the Phish Alert Button Ylew article 'KB0010263" on the Don portal
Hi, my partner fonvarded me this email. I'm a resident at I vote no on both questions.

Thank: you,
Danielle
Begin forwarded message:

From: Rose Eustachio
Date: July 8, 2024 at 12:l :09 PM
To: [email protected],_
Subject: Re: MONDAY NIGHT - ~ow what you think
about term limits & campaign contribution limits
Rose
On Jul 8, 2024, at 10:46 Mf, Councilmember Jessica Rivas, District 5 <[email protected]> wrote:
7/8/2024
Item 14
What - City Council Meeting on CHARTER REFORM
(including term limits and campaign contribution limits).

Do you think councilmembers should be allowed to serve
indefinitely? Do you think we should change our current $5.500 campaign contribution limit? Let the Council knov,· what you think! Details here under item #14.

When - Monday, July 8th, 5:30 pm
Where - Pasadena City Counci, Chambers
How - 3 ways, details available !:ere:

In person during meeting
Remotely via Zoom during meeting
Via email before meeting - you can e-mail
c(a·rt:spond1:ncec~eity(,>fpasadena.net to tet the
Council kno'N your thoughts. This is the easiest option and one I recommend at a m:nimum if you care about
these topics.

Who- You, Pasadena resident
Why- Government for the people. by the people. etc.

Grupo de trabajo de estudio de
estatutos
Que: Reunion de! Concejo Municipal sobre la REFORMA DE
LOS ESTA TUTOS (incluidos /os limites de mandato y /os
limites de contribuciones de campana). i Cree que a los concejales se /es deberra permitir servir indefinidamente? i Cree que deberiamos cambiar nuestro limite actual de
contribuci6n de campafia de $5.500? JOejale saber al Consejo Jo que piensas! Deta!les aqui bajo el punto #14.

Cuando: Lunes 8 de julio. 5:30 p.m.

Donde - Camaras de! Ayuntamiento de Pasadena. 100 N
Garfield A venue
Como - 3 formas de parlicipar. fnstrucciones p,lra
cornentarios pliblfcos
" En persona durante la reunion
" De forma remota a traves de Zoom durante la reunion
" Por correo e!ectronico antes de la reunion: puede
enviar un correo e!ectronico a
cftyclcrk/3:_;cityo(vasade;;,:u1et para informar al grupo de trabajo de estudio de estatutos su opinion. Esta es la opci6n mas sencif!a y !a recomiendo como mfnirno :si te interesa este tema.

Quien: Usted. residente de Pasadena
Por que: Gobiemo para el pueblo. por el pueblo, etc.
---·-----------
Pasadena City Council, District 5
100 N. Garfie!d Avenue. Room S228
Pasadena. CA 91109-7215
(626) 744-7147
@PasadenaD5
IJ
Council District 5 ! Pasadena Cit,, Ha!! 100 N. Garfie!d Ave., Room S22S \ Pasader:a, CA 91109 US
Unsubscribe I Update Profile : constant Contact Data Notice Constant Contact
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

David Pritchard
Monday, July 8, 2024 12:53 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Charter reforms
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification ] Learn why
[&_] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

As a Pasadena resident, I favor all the recommendations by the task force and think they should all be on the November ballot.

David Pritchard
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Carl Selkin
Monday, July 8, 2024 1 :34 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
City Council Agenda item #14 7 /8/24
Some people who received this message don't often get email frorr. Learn why this is important [&] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not dick links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Mayor Gordo and members of the Pasadena City Council,
I write in support of the recommended provisions for term limits and campaign contribution limits. While I would have preferred lower limits on contributions, $1000 will require that candidates demonstrate their commitment to the people they serve by encouraging person-to-person contact, reducing the influence of pressure groups and individuals trying to buy favor.

These recommendations need to be charter amendments. An ordinance would be an invitation to raise these limits. But the campaign contribution limits should be difficult to raise, especially since the limit is between two and four times the limits in comparable cities. And I doubt a future city council would push an ordinance to lower limits.

Carl Selkin
District 5
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Scott Harden
Monday, July 8, 2024 2:02 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Comment in support of Task Force recommendations on term limits.

Some people who received this message don't often get email fromILearn why this is important CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Distinguished Pasadena City Council Members,
I am writing in support of the limit of terms as recommended by the Charter Study Task Force. As a parent and community leader, I support the need to ensure that our city council is as accessible of as many people as possible who commit to serving the public in Pasadena.

Term limits ensure that we:

1. Infuse fresh ideas and perspectives to avoid stagnation

2. Increase diversity and inclusion of a greater swath of those communities in Pasadena

3. Reduce the incumbency bias

4. Increase trust in our democracy
The parameters recommended by the Charter Study Task Force are sensible and ensure greater representation on our City Council. I strongly encourage the City Council to adopt the term limits as prescribed for the Fall ballot.

Scott Harden
Public education Advocate and Parent leader
17/8/2024
Item 14
1 RECEIVED
282UUL-8 PH2-.06

CSTY CLERK

CITY OF PASADENA
Brandon D. Lamar
District 3 Resident
7/8/2024
Pasadena City Council
100 North Garfield Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91101
Dear Members of the Pasadena City Council,
I am writing to urge you to place term limits and campaign contribution limits for the city council and mayor on the ballot for the upcoming November 2024 election. These measures are vital to ensure that our local government remains dynamic, accountable, and representative of the community's diverse needs.

Additionally, I believe it is very important for individuals to have lived in their respective districts for at least six months to a year before they can apply for an appointment to an open city council seat. We can all agree that we want people who have actively invested in the community they wish to serve. Having a residency requirement ensures that candidates have a genuine understanding of and commitment to the unique needs and challenges of their district.

Below you will find my reasoning of why term limits and campaign contribution limits are needed...

Ensuring Fresh Perspectives and Ideas
Term limits are crucial in fostering a dynamic and innovative governance environment. By setting limits on the number of terms elected officials can serve, we encourage a regular influx of new individuals with fresh perspectives, ideas, and approaches to tackling the city's challenges. I am asking the City Council to limit tenns to three, four-year terms for a total of twelve years combined.

Promoting Accountability
When elected officials know they have limited time in office, they are more likely to focus on making meaningful contributions and achieving tangible results. This system promotes a culture of accountability, where officials are driven by the desire to leave a positive legacy rather than by the allure of prolonged power.

Encouraging Civic Engagement and Political Participation With term limits in place, there are more opportunities for citizens to run for office and participate in the democratic process. This can invigorate the political landscape, as more individuals from diverse backgrounds may feel encouraged to contribute their talents and skills 7/8/2024
Item 14
to public service. A system that regularly welcomes new candidates can lead to increased voter engagement and a stronger connection between elected officials and the communities they serve.

Ensuring Fairness and Equity in Campaign Financing
Regulating campaign contributions is essential for maintaining the integrity of our electoral system. Without limits, there is a risk that wealthy individuals or special interest groups could wield undue influence over candidates and elected officials, leading to policies that favor a select few rather than the broader community. Campaign contribution limits help level the playing field, ensuring that candidates have a fair chance to compete based on their ideas and qualifications rather than their fundraising prowess. I believe campaign limits should be the same as the Charter Taskforce suggested, $2500 for mayor and $1000 for City Council races.

Fostering Trust and Confidence in Government
When citizens believe that their leaders are elected based on merit and that the political system is fair and transparent, trust in government institutions is strengthened. Term limits and campaign contribution regulations can help mitigate public concerns about entrenched power structures and the potential for corruption. By implementing these measures, we can build a more transparent, accountable, and equitable government that truly serves the interests of all Pasadena residents.

In summary, the implementation of term limits and campaign contribution regulations for Pasadena's city council and mayor is essential for promoting fresh ideas, accountability, civic engagement, fairness, and public trust. These measures will help ensure that our local government remains responsive to the needs of its citizens and capable of driving positive change in our community.

I respectfully ask that you allow the voters of Pasadena to decide on these important issues by placing term limits and campaign contribution limits on the ballot for November 2024.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your positive response and to a more vibrant, accountable, and fair governance system in Pasadena.

Sincerely,
Brandon D. Lamar
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Jenna Cobb
Monday, July 8, 2024 2:11 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Public comment - Agenda item #14
^
Some people who received this message don't often get email fromLearn why this is important CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DoIT portal.

On term limits, we support the recommendation of the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force to amend the City of Pasadena Charter to include the following provisions:

Councilmembers may serve no more than three consecutive terms as Councilmember. At least afour- year hiatus is required from the seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms. The total term limit is no more than five terms in Council District seats. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

The Mayor may serve no more than three consecutive terms. At least afour-year hiatus is required from the Mayor 's seat, and then the member may serve two additional terms as Mayor. The total term limit is no more than five terms in the Mayor 's seat. Elected partial terms of two years or more count towards the term limit. Term limits are applicable to terms of office beginning on or after January 1, 2025.

A single person or entity may contribute up to $1, 000 per election, for Council District races.

A single person or entity may contribute up to $2,500 per election, for Mayoral races.

We appreciate the transparency of the Council's considerations around the City of Pasadena Charter and its proposed amendments.

Sincerely,
Jenna Cobb
District 2
17/8/2024
Item 14
Kenebrew, Jerice
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Morales, Margo
Monday, July 8, 2024 2:43 PM
Rivas, Jessica; Public Comment
FW: Fair Representation on PRB!!
^siy
Margo L. Morales
Field Representative, Council District 5
(626) 744-7147
(626) 744-3814 fax
To Join Our Mailing list go to htti3s:/Avww.citvofpasadena.net/disthct5/newsletters/ From: Matilde Soria-lbarra <
Sent: Thursday, July 04, 2024 12:05 PM
To: Bell, Cushon <[email protected]>; Dyson, Darla <[email protected]>; Sullivan, Noreen <[email protected]>; Morales, Margo <[email protected]>; Chapman, Justin <[email protected]>;Thyret, Pam <[email protected]>; Barrios, Lisa <[email protected]>
Subject: Fair Representation on PRB!!
Some people who received this message don't often get email from, Learn why this is important ^] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

I am urging the board to ensure representation for all stakeholders. The continued single sided make up of the board will not meet any compromise and wilt ensure LITIGATION AND INJUNCTIONS! Pasadena Rental Housing Board must be reformatted to provide EQUAL representation to renters and rental housing providers. As it exists today, the Rental Housing Board is severely inequitable and lopsided due to its structure of 9 renters to 2 owners.

Also, the Pasadena City Council is urged to change the existing rent increase formula from 75% of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to 100% of CPI as anything less than the full CPI means that rental housing providers are prevented from keeping up with inflation, which is unjust, unfair, unconscionable, and unconstitutional! Act now!
MatitdeSoria-lbarra
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
Kenebrew, Jerice
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Morales, Margo
Monday, July 8, 2024 2:44 PM
Rivas, Jessica; Public Comment
FW: City Council Members-Pasadena Rental Housing Bd. Must Provide Equal Representation
,S5?^AS^
6^
g

^3^ EO
Margo L Morales
Field Representative, Council District 5
(626) 744-7147
(626) 744-3814 fax
To Join Our Mailing list go to https://www.cityofpasadena.net/disthct5/newsletters/ From: Richard Longobardo •
Sent: Thursday, July 04, 2024 11:04 AM
To: Bell, Cushon <[email protected]>; Dyson, Darla <[email protected]>; Barrios, Lisa <[email protected]>; Sullivan, Noreen <[email protected]>; Morales, Margo <[email protected]>; Chapman, Justin <[email protected]>; Thyret, Pam <[email protected]>; [email protected]
Subject: City Council Members-Pasadena Rental Housing Bd. Must Provide Equal Representation Some people who received this message don't often get email fromLearn why this is important ^} CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

City Council Members,
It is appropriate I am sending this email to you on Independence Day. A day we gained our freedoms as a nation.

Although I regard Measure H as an unconstitutional confiscation of my property rights as a housing provider, I hope you will work to at least give us equal representation on the Board and rectify some other wrongs.

As the Rental Housing Board exists today it is biased and stacked against the housing providers (at least those of us with smaller buildings those built before 1995 another unequable element of the Measure H) with only two property owners and nine renters on the Board. This inequitable situation must be changed with specifically designated seats for property owners. Now is the time for you a City Council Member to remedy this inequity by adding an amendment to the Charter that would reconstitute the Rental Board with seven specifically designated renter seats, adding seven specifically designated rental housing provider seats, and adding one specifically designated homeowner seat for the purpose of breaking any tie vote situations that 17/8/2024
Item 14
may arise. There must be fair and equal representation on the Board for both renters and rental housing providers as anything less is unacceptable, unjust, and untenable.

Further, now is the time for you to act to make the allowable increases in rent to at least the Consumer Price Index increases for our area. The measure hi increase of 75% of CPI is grossly unfair. None of our vendors have limitations while our expenses continue to increase. This is unsustainable. As an example, Pasadena's July 1st increases in water rates increased rates 61%, the mandated organics trash increases of 116%, landscaping maintenance is up 50%, and the statewide debacle in insurance costs with State Farm abandoning the state, rates in most cases have gone up nearly 400% even with a much greater deductible we have to pay. We cannot continue to sustain these losses.

In addition, placing the burden of paying the Rental Housing Board to inflict such pain and suffering on us, is adding insult to injury. These costs should be passed along to the Renters as they are the sole beneficiaries of this Measure.

Please do the right thing in representing everyone of your constituents.

Richard Longobardo
2 Kenebrew, Jerice
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Morales, Margo
Monday, July 8, 2024 2:48 PM
Rivas, Jessica; Public Comment
FW: Fair & Equal Representation for All
Margo L Morales
Field Representative, Council District 5
(626) 744-7147
(626) 744-3814 fax
To Join Our Mailing list go to https://www.citYofpasadena.net/distnct5/newsletters/ From: Kali Lamarine
Sent: Thursday, July 04, 2024 6:53 AM
To: Bell, Cushon <[email protected]>; Dyson, Darla <[email protected]>; Barrios, Lisa <[email protected]>; Sullivan, Noreen <[email protected]>; Morales, Margo <[email protected]>; Chapman, Justin <[email protected]>; Thyret, Pam <[email protected]>; [email protected]
Subject: Fair & Equal Representation for All
I
^Some people who received this message don't often get email frorrn_why this is important ^\] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you fcnowthe content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Dear Pasadena City Council Members,
I am reaching out today in hopes to achieve fair and equal representation of Pasadena rental housing owners in regards to the Pasadena Rental Housing Board. When discussing and implementing changes that affect both renters and landlords, it's only fair that both sides be heard and represented equally. It my hope that you seethe value in hearing from both sides, equally, during the discussions and legal changes that affect both renters and landlords in Pasadena so we can ensure that everyone is considered when weighing the positive and negative effects for alt.

As it exists today, the Pasadena Housing Board is comprised of 9 renters and 2 rental property owners. If 7 seats are going to be designated for renters, there should also be 7 seats designated for rental housing owners and 1 additional neutral seat for the purpose of breaking any tie votes. It's only fair and just to balance the board this way. If the goal is to continue forward with 1 1 board members, 5 seats should be reserved for renters, 5 should be reserved for rental housing owners and there should be 1 specifically designated homeowner seat.

The Consumer Price Index is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by consumers for market based consumer goods and services. When we only consider 75% of this already averaged number, it 17/8/2024
Item 14
significantly puts rental housing owners at an unfair disadvantage, not allowing rental housing owners to keep up with inflation, which is unsustainable.

I urge you to do right by ALL Pasadena citizens by making these two critical changes when drafting the ballot measure forthis November.

I am available to discuss further and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thankyou foryourtime and consideration,
f^i.ojf^&jruf^i
Chief Executive Officer / Owner
CalDRE 02027112
LA Lux Property Management
CalDRE022l631S
^ 3156 Foochifl BSvd.. Suite J. La Crescenta. CA 91214
^ (603) 714 - 1476
@ ©laluxpm
www.ialuxpm.coin
<n»>
't»»
^-*1
^tt!l
LA LUX
'"••"-/•-'^T
2 Kenebrew, Jerice
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Morales, Margo
Monday, July 8, 2024 2:50 PM
Rivas, Jessica; Public Comment
FW: Fair Representation on PRB!!
^nwo.^
PA ofs-<0 y?^
^y^.7.
;1 IU
^»,
^^y
Margo L. Morales
Field Representative, Council District 5
(626) 744-7147
(626) 744-3814 fax
To Join Our Mailing list go to https://www.citvofpasadena.net/distnct5/newsietters/ From: Matthew D. Riojas
Sent: Wednesday, July 03, 2024 5:55 PM
To: Bell, Cushon <[email protected]>; Dyson, Darla <[email protected]>; Barrios, Lisa <[email protected]>; Sullivan, Noreen <[email protected]>; Morales, Margo <[email protected]>; Chapman, Justin <[email protected]>; Thyret, Pam <[email protected]>; [email protected]
Subject: Fair Representation on PRB!!
ISome people who received this message don't often get email fromLearn why this is important CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you fcnowthe content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DoiT portal.

I am urging the board to ensure representation for all stakeholders. The continued single sided make up of the board will not meet any compromise and will ensure LITIGATION AND INJUNCTIONS! Pasadena Rental Housing Board must be reformatted to provide EQUAL representation to renters and rental housing providers. As it exists today, the Rental Housing Board is severely inequitable and lopsided due to its structure of 9 renters to 2 owners.

Also, the Pasadena City Council is urged to change the existing rent increase formula from 75% of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to 100% of CPI as anything less than the full CPI means that rental housing providers are prevented from keeping up with inflation, which is unjust, unfair, unconscionable, and unconstitutional! Act now!
*********
Matthew D. Riojas, Esq.
1 7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Cc:

Subject:

David W
Monday, July 8, 2024 3:23 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Rivas, Jessica
City Council - July 8, 2024: Agenda Items 14: Term Limits & Campaign Contribution Limits
[A.] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Good afternoon, hlonorable Mayor and City Council.

I would encourage you to please support the Task Force recommendations with regards to Mayor and Council Member term Limits as well as the recommendations regarding campaign donation limits.

Thankyou for any consideration of my above comment.

With best regards,
David Whitehead
District #5
17/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Diane Trout
Monday, July 8, 2024 3:31 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Term limits & campaign contributions limits
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification ]
-earn why this is important at
^\] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

Hello,
I personally like contribution limits and think there probably should be some level of limit, though I'm ambivalent about term limits. It can lead to good candidates getting ejected because they weren't able to advance to a new seat.

I think a "soft term limit" where an incumbents contribution limits decline the longer they're in office might be an interesting way to keep elections between new challengers and long term incumbents.

It also might make sense to let the term limit expire after several election cycles as someone else now has the incumbent advantage.

Good luck on trying to figure out fair election rules.

Diane Trout
Resident of Districts.

Pasadena, CA
17/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:
cindyclark-schnuelle •
Monday, July 8, 2024 3:33 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Charter Reform: Tonights City Council Meeting
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderldentification ] iarn why this is
CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

I believe that there should be a limit on campaign contributions for any elected official of Pasadena. However, if an elected official is doing a good job and their constituents have faith in their abilities then I see no reason for term limits.

The ballot box is where residents will decide how long a person should remain in his or her office.

Regards,
CindyClark-Schnuelle
North Pasadens Resident
17/8/2024
Item 14
LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS1 RECEIVED

PASADENA AREA
202UUL-8 PH 3; 54
Alhambra Altadena Arcadia Bradbury Duarte LaCanada Flintridge Monrovia Montere San Gabriel San Marino Sierra Madre South Pasadenaoyy OF PASADENA July 8,2024
Dear Mayor and City Councilmembers,
I write as President of the League of Women Voters for the Pasadena Area (LWV-PA) with respect to Agenda item 14 for the July 8, 2024, meeting of the Pasadena City Council. We support the Charter Amendment Task Force recommendation to set term limits, leave unchanged the election cycles for city council and Mayor, and to establish campaign contribution limits at $1,000 per person/entity for Council District races and $2,500 per person/entity for Mayoral races.

Our position is consistent with positions taken by the League at both the national and state level.

With respect to campaign finance, the League of Women Voters of the United States has stated:
"Money in Politics - Campaign finance regulation should enhance political equality for all citizens, ensure transparency, protect representative democracy from distortion by big money, and combat corruption and undue influence in government. The League believes that campaign spending must be restricted but not banned. The League supports public financing, full disclosure, abolishing SuperPACs and creating an effective enforcement agency. " The League of Women Voters of California also supports "default limits on the size of campaign contributions to local candidates," and calls upon local Leagues "to push their cities, counties and districts that do not have contribution limits to establish limits appropriate to their communities. "
https://lwvc.org/issue/money-in-politics/
Yours truly,
Karen Roberson
President of the League of Women Voters Pasadena Area
Resident of District 2
A nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization
65 S. Grand Avenue • Pasadena, CA 91105-16
7/8/2024
Item 14
McMillan, Acquanette (Netta)
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

S. A. Gibson
Monday, July 8, 2024 4:07 PM
PublicComment-AutoResponse
Comment to City Council
ISome people who received this message don't often get email fromirn why this is important [A! CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0010263" on the DolT portal.

I support term Limits and campaign contributions limits of 2500 for mayoral and 1000 for city council.

Thankyou,
Steve Gibson
PCC Trustee
I am giving my opinion as an private citizen,
17/8/2024
Item 14
July 8,2024,
Pasadena Mayor and City Council
Council Chambers, Pasadena City Hall
100 North Garfield Avenue, Room S249
Pasadena, CA 91101

RECEIVED
202UUL-8 PH ^ II
CiTY CLERK

CITY OF PASADENA
^
^
California
Common
Cause
Re: Campaign Contribution Limits (7/8/2024 Pasadena City Council Agenda Item #14) Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers,
California Common Cause is a nonpartisan, good-government organization with over 50 years of advocacy and expertise in campaign finance, election, ethics, transparency, lobbying, conflict of interest, and anti-corruption reforms.

We support the Pasadena Charter Study Task Force's recommendation to implement campaign contribution limits of $1,000 per candidate per election for Pasadena City Council candidates and $2,500 per candidate per election for Pasadena Mayoral candidates.

These limits are reasonable; they are not so low as to hamstring fundraising efforts nor so high that they would provide an undue advantage to candidates with a large pool of wealthy donors.

For perspective, California Common Cause recently published the California Municipal Campaign Finance Index (MCFI), a compilation of all California cities with self-imposed campaign finance reforms.1 Of the California cities in the MCFI with by-district elections and a population similar to Pasadena's, the average contribution limit is $1,123, with the most common limit being $1,000.2 Two of those cities have separate limits for at-large mayoral candidates of $2,500 (Downey) and $2,000 (Vacaville). When considering all California cities (138) with self-imposed contribution limits (i.ecities with limits other than the state's default limit), the average contribution limit is $1,136.3 Of those cities, 12 have an average contribution limit of $1,975 for at-large mayoral candidates.

Thus, the Task Force's recommendations for campaign contribution limits are similar to most California cities of a similar size and with a similar election system that have self-imposed campaign contribution limits.
1 The MCFI consists of 2022 data.
216 cities were identified in the MCFI with by-district elections and populations between 100k-150k residents. The cities of Inglewood and El Cajon were removed from the list as outliers who implemented extremely high contribution limits ($100,000 and $10,000, respectively) in order to circumvent the state's default contribution limits instituted by Assembly Bill 571. 3 This consists of a pool of 138 cities identified in the MCFI. Five cities were removed as outliers that implemented extremely high contribution limits ($1 Ok or more) in the wake ofAB 570's passage. 7/8/2024
Item 14
Reasonable campaign contribution limits can increase electoral competition,4 lessen the appearance of pay-to-play politics, and instill greater trust in local democracy.5 Our research shows that over 140 California cities have self-imposed campaign contribution limits, with 124 of those cities instituting limits that are lower than the state's default contribution limit — a limit that was originally intended solely for state Senate and Assembly candidates who represent large jurisdictions that encompass dozens of cities.

We understand that the details for the implementation and enforcement of local contribution limits are yet to be fleshed out; nonetheless, we encourage the Pasadena Mayor and City Council to move this process forward by committing to implement the Task Force's proposed campaign contribution limits. If the City does move forward with this recommendation, then our campaign finance experts at California Common Cause are happy to assist the City with implementation and enforcement best practices.

Thank you, Mayor and Pasadena City Councilmembers, for your time and consideration of this important good-government reform.

Sincerely,
Scan McMorris
Transparency, Ethics & Accountability Program Manager
California Common Cause
smcmorris(Q)commoncause.ora
4 See Torres-Spelliscy, Ciara, et al. Election Competition and Low Contribution Limits. Brennan Center for Justice, 2009.
5 See Cerda, Andy, and Andrew Daniller. "7 Facts about Americans' Views of Money in Politics." Pew Research Center, 8 May 2018,
www.Dewresearch.ora/short-reads/2023/10/23/7-facts-about-americans-views-of-monev-in-Dolitics/; See Also Jones, Bradley. "Most Americans Want to Limit Campaign Spending, Say Big Donors Have Greater Political Influence." Pew Research Center, 23 Oct. 2023, www.Dewresearch.ora/short-reads/2018/05/08/most-americans-want-to-limit-camDaian-SDendina-sav-bia- donors-have-greater-politicat-influence/; See Also Nadeem, Reem. "5. Money, Power and the Influence of Ordinary People in American Politics." Pew Research Center- U.S. Politics & Policy, 19 Sept. 2023, www.Dewresearch.ora/Dolitics/2023/09/19/monev-Dower-and-the-influence-of-ordinarv-DeoDle-in-amenca n-politics/.

Pasadena City CouncilJuly 8, 2024

Pasadena City Council
July 8, 2024