OPENING:
CLOSED SESSION
CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
May 19, 2025-5:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chamber
Teleconference Location:
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali
Business Center
2365 Kaanapali Parkway Lahaina
Maui, HI 96761
Mayor Gordo called the regular meeting to order at 5:00 (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Jones)
Mayor Gordo participated
in the closed session via
teleconference.
Councilmember Jones
arrived at 5:30 p.m.
Councilmember Hampton
arrived at 5:35 p.m.
p.m.
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting recessed at 5:01 p.m. to discuss the following closed session items:
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding pending litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of Case: Davenport, S. v. City of Pasadena
Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No.: 21STCV18268
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Properties:
1. 180 Glenarm Street, Pasadena, CA
2. 269 Palmetto Drive, Pasadena, CA
3.1175 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
4.163 State Street, Pasadena, CA
5. 236 Wigmore Drive, Pasadena, CA also known as 230
Wigmore Drive
6. 215 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, CA
7. 218 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, CA
8. 888 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
9. 894/894-B Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
10.1112 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
11.1200 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
12. 584 Saint John Avenue and 230/230-A California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA
13.696 Saint John Avenue, Pasadena, CA
14.734 Saint John Avenue, Pasadena, CA
15.180 State Street, Pasadena, CA
16. 225 State Street, Pasadena, CA
17. 237 State Street, Pasadena, CA
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
Agency negotiator: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating parties: As determined through listing agreements with Michael Bell, broker with Sotheby's International Realty; Council Minutes105/19/2025
ROLL CALL:
Councilmembers:
Staff:
CEREMONIAL MATTERS
Michael Lloyd Slaughter, broker with Mutual Realty
Consultants; and, William Podley, broker with Compass
The above closed session items were discussed, with no reportable action at this time.
CONSIDERATION OF INITIATION OF LITIGATION pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) (one potential case) The above closed session item was discussed. Authorization was given to initiate or intervene in civil litigation and the defendants and other particulars shall, once formally commenced, be disclosed to any person upon inquiry unless to do so would jeopardize the City's ability to effectuate service of process.
The above authorization was given by the follow vote:
Lyon, Madison, Vice AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones,
Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Councilmember Masuda
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilmember Hampton
On the order of the Vice Mayor, the regular meeting reconvened at 7:03 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was led by Councilmember Cole.
Mayor Victor M. Gordo (absent)
Vice Mayor Jessica Rivas
Councilmember Rick Cole
CouncilmemberTyron Hampton
Councilmember Justin Jones
Councilmember Jason Lyon
Councilmember Steve Madison
Councilmember Gene Masuda
City Manager Miguel Marquez
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Michele Beal Bagneris
City Clerk Mark Jomsky
Vice Mayor Rivas issued a proclamation recognizing the month of May 2025 as Older Americans Month in the City of Pasadena. On behalf of the Senior Commission, Commissioner Chelsea Mason accepted the proclamation, thanked the City Council for the recognition, and spoke on the activities offered by the City to enhance the lives of senior citizens. Katie Brandon, representative from Pasadena Village, spoke on the importance of connecting senior citizens to supportive resources and invited the community to attend the upcoming event: Pasadena Celebrates Older Americans Month at Victory Park on Wednesday, May 21,2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Council Minutes205/19/2025
PUBLIC COMMENT ON
MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
CONSENT CALENDAR
City Manager/ Executive
Director
Vice Mayor Rivas also issued a proclamation recognizing the month of May 2025 as Water Safety Month in the City of Pasadena. Kenny James, Parks & Community Services Administrator, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department. He introduced Gretchen Esparza, Aquatics Supervisor, who spoke on the importance of water safety and encouraged the community to utilize the swim safety programs offered by the City.
The following individuals provided comments on the crisis in Gaza and advocated for the City to divest from specific companies:
Nicholas Susemiehl, Pasadena resident
Hedab Tarifi, Arcadia resident
Reverand Mark Chase, All Saints Church
Salma Zahr, Pasadena resident
Dr. Lena Al Sarraf, Pasadena resident
Rob Muthiah, Pasadena resident
Alien Shay, Pasadena resident, strongly encouraged the City Council to assist individuals impacted by the Eaton Fire by identifying and providing financial resources.
Olden Denham, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding housing provided by Union Station and the lack of working amenities and adequate parking in the area.
Yadi, Pasadena resident, advocated for a discussion regarding the City's response to the Eaton Fire at an upcoming Public Safety Committee meeting.
In response to Councilmember Cole's inquiry on agendizing the City's conduct on human rights and investments on a future Finance Committee meeting agenda, City Manager Marquez reported that the request was received, and staff will confirm with Mayor Gordo, the Chair of the Finance Committee, to determine the timing of when to place the requested item on a Finance Committee meeting agenda.
In response to public comment, Councilmember Jones confirmed that the City's Utility Undergrounding program and the Wildfire Mitigation Plan will be presented at a future Municipal Services Committee meeting.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH E SOURCE COMPANIES, LLC., FOR
ADVANCED METER INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT
MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR UP TO FIVE YEARS FOR A
TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $2,400,464 (Water &
Power Dept.)
Council Minutes305/19/2025
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b); and (2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as the result of the competitive selection process, as specified by Section
4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with E Source
Companies, LLC ("E Source") for Advanced Meter Infrastructure ("AMI") Project Management Services for three years with the option for two additional one-year extensions subject to the approval of the City Manager for a total amount not-to-exceed $2,400,464, which includes the base contract amount of $2,087,360 and a contingency of $313,104 to provide for any necessary change orders.
Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services. (Contract No. 33252)
City Clerk Jomsky reported that one letter advocating for the City to implement a comprehensive privacy program was received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
Yadi, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns related to
personal privacy and advocated for the City to implement a comprehensive privacy program.
Councilmember Cole advocated for the Municipal Services Committee to discuss technology as it relates to personal privacy to ensure proper oversight is occurring. Councilmember Jones reported that a larger discussion on the matter is scheduled for a future Municipal Services Committee meeting.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO
CONTRACTS WITH KLOUDGIN, INC., FOR ENTERPRISE ASSET
MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE FOR A TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED
AMOUNT OF $2,157,048 AND TMG UTILITY ADVISORY
SERVICES, INC., FOR IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES FOR A
TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED $4,255,000 (Water and Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to California Public Resources Code Section 21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b);
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as the result of the competitive selection process, as specified by Section
4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with KloudGin, Inc. ("KloudGin") for Enterprise Asset Management ("EAM") software for five years for a total amount not-to-exceed $2,157,048, which Council Minutes405/19/2025
includes the base contract amount of $1,875,694 and a contingency of $281,354 to provide for any necessary change orders.
Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services (Contract No. 33241); and
(3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as the result of the competitive selection process, as specified by Section
4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with TMG Utility Advisory Services, Inc. ("TMG") for Enterprise Asset Management ("EAM") implementation services for three years for a total amount not-to- exceed $4,255,000, which includes the base contract amount of $3,700,000 and a contingency of $555,000 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services. (Contract No. 33242)
City Clerk Jomsky reported that one letter expressing concerns with the staff recommendation was received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO
CONTRACTS WITH FRIENDS IN DEED AND UNION STATION
HOMELESS SERVICES WITH $481,000 OF FEDERAL RUSH
DISASTER FUNDING IN EACH CONTRACT TO PROVIDE
HOMELESS SERVICES (Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended actions in the agenda report are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract in the amount of $481,000, without competitive bidding pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services, with The FID Group dba Friends In Deed for homelessness prevention, rapid rehousing, and emergency shelter services with a contract term concluding on January 31, 2028 (Contract No. 33250); (3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract in the amount of $481,000, without competitive bidding pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services, with Union Station Homeless Services for rapid rehousing services with a contract term concluding on January 31, 2028 (Contract No. 33251); and
(4) Grant the proposed contracts an exemption from the
Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section 4.08.049(B) contracts for which the City's best interests are sen/ed.
Council Minutes505/19/2025
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES FOR THE
RECEIPT OF MEASURE A LOCAL SOLUTIONS FUNDS IN THE
AMOUNT OF $867,473 FOR RENTAL ASSISTANCE (Housing
Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended actions in the agenda report are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with the County of Los Angeles for the receipt of Fiscal Year 2026 Measure A Local Solutions Funds in the amount of $867,473 for the provision of rental assistance with a term ending June 30, 2026 (Contract No. 24,240);
(3) Authorize the City Manager to execute a first amendment to the subject contract with a not-to-exceed amount of $1,000,000 and a term extension through June 30, 2027, subject to the availability of Fiscal Year 2027 Measure A Local Solutions Funds for the continued provision of rental assistance; and
(4) Authorize the City Manager to execute a second amendment to the subject contract with a not-to-exceed amount of $1,000,000 and a term extension through June 30, 2028, subject to the availability of Fiscal Year 2028 Measure A Local Solutions Funds for the continued provision of rental assistance.
Sonja Berndt, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns and provided comments on the lack of funding from the federal government for homelessness and housing initiatives.
Councilmember Hampton advocated for City staff to provide a detailed presentation on the Housing Department's budget to highlight which housing services programs might be impacted by curtailed federal funding, and how the City may continue to fund such programs, including possible funding alternatives. Councilmembers Hampton and Madison reaffirmed the City's commitment to obtaining federal funding for City programs and services, and to identify ways to continue services for vulnerable unhoused individuals. City Manager Marquez reported that City staff will continuously monitor federal grant funding and report to the City Council with updates and recommendations for budget amendments, as necessary.
ADOPT A RESOLUTION ELECTING TO BE SUBJECT OF THE
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' MEDICAL AND HOSPITAL CARE ACT
FOR MEMBERS OF THE NON-PERS ELECTED OFFICIALS
GROUP, FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECEIVING MEDICAL
BENEFITS THROUGH THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES'
RETIREMENT SYSTEM (Human Resources Dept.)
Council Minutes605/19/2025
Item pulled; to be heard at
a future meeting.
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) "Common Sense" exemption; and
(2) Adopt a Resolution electing to be subject to the Public Employees' Medical and Hospital Act (PEMHCA) for members of the Non-PERS Elected Officials group, for the purpose of receiving medical benefits through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). (Resolution No. 10128)
ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO ACCEPT A FUNDING AWARD
THROUGH THE STATE AND LOCAL CYBERSECURITY GRANT
PROGRAM (SLCGP) IN THE AMOUNT OF $225,000 FROM THE
STATE OF CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR'S OFFICE OF
EMERGENCY SERVICES AND TO EXECUTE ALL DOCUMENTS
REQUIRED BY THE STATE TO UTILIZE THE SLCGP FUNDS
(DolT)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment;
(2) Adopt a Resolution of the City of Pasadena City Council to accept a $225,000 competitive award from the State of California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) State and Local Cybersecurity Grant program to provide initial funding for enhancements to the City's cybersecurity initiatives (Resolution No. 10129); and
(3) Authorize the City Manager and/or his designee to execute a Governing Body Resolution and any and all related program documents with Cal OES in connection with the City's $225,000 SLCGP award.
APPROVE FINAL TRACT MAP NO. 082169 FOR CREATION OF
49 AIR PARCELS FOR RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM
PURPOSES AND ONE AIR PARCEL FOR COMMERCIAL
CONDOMINIUM PURPOSES AT 127-141 NORTH MADISON
AVENUE (Public Works Dept.)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH BEADOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.,
FOR THE EAST SIDE STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $728,300 (Public
Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find the contract proposed in the agenda report to be categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Title 14, Chapter 3, Article 19, Section 15301, Council Minutes705/19/2025
Item discussed separately
City Council
RESIGNATIONS,
APPOINTMENTS, &
REAPPOINTMENTS
I
Class 1 - Existing Facilities, and that there are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances; and
(2) Award contract to lowest and best bid dated April 11, 2025 submitted by Beador Construction Company, Inc., in response to the plans and specifications for the East Side Storm Drain Improvements project and authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract for an amount not-to-exceed $728,300 which includes the base contract amount of $633,300 and a contingency of $95,000 to provide for any necessary change orders. (Contract No. 33244)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE:
ADOPT A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO RENEW THE OLD
PASADENA MANAGEMENT DISTRICT PROPERTY-BASED
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT (PBID), AND SETTING A
PUBLIC HEARING FOR JULY 14, 2025 AT 6:OOPM (Office of the City Manager)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that adopting a resolution renewing the Old Pasadena Management District Property-Based Business Improvement District is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per Section 15061(b)(3) "Common Sense" exemption; and
(2) Adopt a Resolution of Intention to renew the Old Pasadena Management District Property-Based Business Improvement District, and setting a Public Hearing for July 14, 2025 at 6:00 pm. (Resolution No. 10130)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE GRANT RELATED DOCUMENTS FOR THE EDWARD
BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT AWARD
AND AMEND THE POLICE DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL YEAR 2025
OPERATING BUDGET BY RECOGNIZING REVENUE AND
APPROPRIATING $34,390 IN GRANT FUNDS (Police Dept.)
APPOINTMENT OF BRIDGID FENNELL TO THE LIBRARY
COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (District 2 Nomination)
APPOINTMENT OF BEGONYA DE SALVO TO THE PASADENA
COMMUNITY ACCESS CORPORATION BOARD EFFECTIVE
JULY 1, 2025 (District 2 Nomination)
APPOINTMENT OF RANDY McKENZIE TO THE NORTHWEST
COMMISSION (District 4 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF PAT AMSBRY TO THE PASADENA
CENTER OPERATING COMPANY BOARD EFFECTIVE JULY 1,
2025 (At Large/District 5 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF AARON MILAM TO THE ROSE BOWL
OPERATING COMPANY BOARD (District 2 Nomination)
Council Minutes805/19/2025
L^
REAPPOINTMENT OF PATRICIA HERRERA TO THE
ACCESSIBILITY AND DISABILITY COMMISSION EFFECTIVE
JULY 1, 2025 (District 4 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF ANNE MELLO TO THE HISTORIC
PRESERVATION COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1,
2025 (District 4 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF CARLOS RIOS TO THE
TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMISSION EFFECTIVE
JULY 1, 2025 (District 4 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF ROBERT CROOK TO THE ARTS &
CULTURE COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (District 5
Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF JUDITH BLANTON TO THE LIBRARY
COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (District 5 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF PHILIP BURNS TO THE PLANNING
COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (District 5 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF MARI BERKEMEIER TO THE SENIOR
COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (District 5 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF DAVID CHIANG TO THE
TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMISSION EFFECTIVE
JULY 1, 2025 (District 5 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF ALEXANDER BLISS TO THE PASADENA
COMMUNITY ACCESS CORPORATION BOARD EFFECTIVE
JULY 1, 2025 (District 5 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF ALEXANDER BOEKELHEIDE TO THE
PASADENA COMMUNITY ACCESS CORPORATION BOARD
EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (PCC Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF BETH LEYDEN TO THE PASADENA
COMMUNITY ACCESS CORPORATION BOARD EFFECTIVE
JULY 1, 2025 (PUSD Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF MARK WATERSON TO THE SENIOR
COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (Agency Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF KATIE BRANDON TO THE SENIOR
COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (Agency Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF JONATHAN NORTON TO THE HUMAN
RELATIONS COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (District 2 Nomination)
Council Minutes905/19/2025
City Clerk/ Secretary
MINUTES APPROVED
May 5, 2025 Minutes -
Item pulled
CLAIMS RECEIVED AND
FILED
MOTION:
CONSENT ITEMS
DISCUSSED
SEPARATELY
REAPPOINTMENT OF DANIEL YEN TO THE NORTHWEST
COMMISSION (District 2 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF RUBY QUALLSGRAY TO THE SENIOR
COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 (District 2 Nomination) April 16,2025
April 21, 2025
April 21, 2025
April 28, 2025
April 28, 2025
April 28, 2025
May 5, 2025
May 5, 2025
City Council Special Meeting
City Council
Successor
Community
City Council
City Council
Successor
Community
City Council
Successor
Community
Agency to the Pasadena
Development Commission
Special Meeting
Agency to the Pasadena
Development Commission
Agency to the Pasadena
Development Commission
Claim No. Claimant
2025-0270 Laurel Phelan
2025-0271 Huixian Wang
2025-0272 Shanrong Shao
2025-0273 Summer Huang
2025-0274 Edgar Moreno
2025-0275 Timothy White
2025-0276 Kristie Geller
Claim Amount
$1,600.00
35,000.00+
35,000.00+
35,000.00+
35,000.00+
1,000.00
5,000.00)
City Clerk Jomsky reported that both Consent Calendar Items 7 and 12a (meeting minutes for May 5, 2025) will be held and return at a future City Council Meeting.
It was moved by Councilmember Lyon, seconded by Councilmember hlampton, to approve Consent Calendar Items 1-6, 8-9,11, 12a (with the exception of the May 5, 2025 meeting minutes), and 12b. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO
EXECUTE GRANT RELATED DOCUMENTS FOR THE EDWARD
BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT AWARD
AND AMEND THE POLICE DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL YEAR 2025
OPERATING BUDGET BY RECOGNIZING REVENUE AND
APPROPRIATING $34,390 IN GRANT FUNDS (Police Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the project proposed in the agenda report is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA applies only to projects that may have an effect on the environment; Council Minutes1005/19/2025
MOTION:
OLD BUSINESS
L_J
(2) Authorize the City Manager to execute all grant-related documents pertaining to the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) award in the amount of $34,390; and (3) Amend the Police Department's Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Operating Budget by recognizing revenue and appropriating $34,390 in the General Fund (101) as detailed in the Fiscal Impact Section of the agenda report. (Budget Amendment No. 2025-29)
Yadi, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding
personal privacy and the appropriation of funds for sun/eillance equipment, and she advocated for the matter to be discussed by the Public Safety Committee and/or the Community Police Oversight Commission ("CPOC").
In response to Councilmember Lyon's inquiry regarding why the item did not go to the Public Safety Committee, City Manager Marquez reported that the matter was presented to the Finance Committee due to the financial nature of the item, and information on automated license plate readers was presented and discussed at the technology subcommittee of the CPOC in October 2023.
Lieutenant Sam De Sylva provided a Powerpoint presentation on the item, and responded to questions.
In response to Councilmember Lyon's inquiry regarding the license plate readers, Lt. De Sylva confirmed that the readers only capture externally identifiable information that any individual may view, such as the color, make, and model of the vehicle, as well as the license plate number. He reported that the system does not include facial recognition features. Lt. De Sylva also confirmed that the item was presented to a CPOC subcommittee and was not called for review by the entire CPOC, as was their prerogative.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Lyon, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
CONTINUED PUBLIC MEETING: FISCAL YEAR 2026
RECOMMENDED SCHEDULE OF TAXES, FEES, AND CHARGES
(Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Tolls, Fares, and Charges); and
(2) After conducting a public hearing on June 2, 2025, adopt the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges.
Council Minutes1105/19/2025
MOTION:
ORDINANCE - FIRST
READING
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Matt Hawkesworth, Acting Assistant City Manager/Director of Finance, provided introductory remarks on the item and described the process for adoption of the schedule of taxes, fees, and charges.
It was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by
Councilmember Jones, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
Conduct first reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
PASADENA AMENDING TITLE 1, SECTIONS 1.24.010, 1.25.010
AND 1.26.010 OF THE PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING ENFORCEMENT OF CITY ORDINANCES"
City Attorney Bagneris gave a brief overview of the proposed ordinance, to make minor corrections for purposes of clarity and provide flexibility to the City to determine appropriate means for compliance with the Pasadena Municipal Code.
The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Hampton:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO 2024 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN
FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND HOME
INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP ACT (Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council cancel the public hearing, which will be noticed again to occur on June 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that the public hearing item was cancelled and will be re-noticed to take place on June 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING: ADOPTION OF THE FISCAL
YEAR 2026 CITY MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED OPERATING
BUDGET (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council continue the public hearing to June 2, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
Councilmember Jones requested that copies of the proposed fiscal year 2026 operating budget be made available for public review at Jackie Robinson Community Center, La Pintoresca Library, and in the northwest Pasadena area.
Council Minutes1205/19/2025
MOTION:
City Clerk Jomsky reported that three letters related to the budget were received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and will be made part of the public record for this item.
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to continue the public hearing to June 2, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
APPROVAL OF THE FIVE-YEAR CONSOLIDATED PLAN (2025-
2029), THE ANNUAL ACTION PLAN (2025) AND RELATED
FUNDING APPLICATIONS FOR THE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT, HOME INVESTMENT
PARTNERSHIP ACT, AND EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS GRANT
PROGRAMS (Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that upon close of the public hearing the City Council take the following actions:
(1) Find that the recommended action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines per Section 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment;
(2) Approve the submission of the Five-Year Consolidated Plan (2025-2029) and the Annual Action Plan (2025) as part of the application to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for funding under the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Home Investment Partnership Act (HOME), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) programs; (3) Approve the submittal of a grant application for CDBG Program Year 2025 entitlement funds in the amount of $2,133,263, and the programming of program income in the amount of $166,137 for a total of $2,299,400 to be allocated towards CDBG program activities; (4) Approve the submittal of a grant application HOME Program Year 2025 entitlement funds in the amount of $685,488 and the reprogramming of existing unspent HOME funds in the amount of $2,008,439 for a total of $2,693,927 to be allocated towards HOME program activities;
(5) Approve the submittal of a grant application for ESG Program Year 2025 entitlement funds in the amount of $189,807 and the reprogramming of existing unspent ESG funds in the amount of $716,828, which includes $581,250 of Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing (RUSH) disaster grant funding, for a total of $906,635 to be allocated towards ESQ program activities;
(6) Authorize the City Manager to execute, and the City Clerk to attest, the Five-Year Consolidation Plan (2025-2029), the Annual Action Plan (2025), the grant applications, certifications, and any and all other documents deemed necessary by HDD to obtain the allocation of the aforementioned federal entitlement funds;and (7) Authorize the City Manager or designee to execute
administrative amendments (such as time extensions, policy I
I
Council Minutes1305/19/2025
MOTION:
revisions, and budget modification corrections) reflected in the Citizen Participation Plan attached to the Five-Year Consolidated Plan (2025-2029).
City Clerk Jomsky reported that the public hearing notice was published in the Pasadena Press on May 15, 2025, and that one letter expressing concerns with the proposed 5-year consolidated plan was received by the City Clerk's office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record.
Jim Wong, Housing Director, provided introductory remarks on the item. Randy Mabson, Housing Program Coordinator, provided a Powerpoint presentation on the 5-year consolidated plan, needs assessment results, housing market analysis, and the Housing Department's Strategic Plan.
Sonja Berndt, Pasadena resident, expressed opposition to the City's proposed 5-year consolidated plan and the annual action plan due to the lack of available vouchers and inadequacy of housing solutions for unhoused individuals.
Councilmember Hampton advocated for the City to further support childcare needs. He suggested that the Department present a report on programs related to childcare from the previous five years, highlighting successes and shortfall.
Councilmember Cole advocated for the City to reconsider some spending priorities, noting the number of unhoused individuals in the City who may need funded programs/services. In response to comments made, Jim Wong, Housing Director, clarified that the federal budget cuts would impact the 2027 fiscal year budget.
Councilmember Lyon advocated for the City to take a fresh look at budget priorities, and advocated for consideration of other important programs, such as a year-round shelter. In response to
Councilmember Lyon's inquiry regarding additional motel sites, City Manager Marquez reported that the City's Housing Department is working with L.A. County and utilizing available resources to establish additional motel sites.
It was moved by Councilmember Lyon, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to close the public hearing.
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
)
Council Minutes1405/19/2025
MOTION:Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by Councilmember Lyon, to approve the staff
recommendation.
Jones, Lyon, AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
ANNUAL RECRUITMENT AND VACANCY REPORT (Human
Resources Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) "Common Sense" exemption; and
(2) Receive and file the annual report on recruitment and vacancy rates.
City Clerk Jomsky reported the public hearing notice was posted on May 5, 2025 at City Hall and on the City's website, and that no correspondence was received by the City Clerk's Office for this item.
Tiffany Jacobs-Quinn, Human Resources Director, provided a Powerpoint presentation on the item, and responded to questions.
In response to Councilmember Hampton's inquiry regarding college degree requirements, Human Resources Director Jacobs-Quinn reported that some positions do have college degree equivalencies, where an applicant may substitute years of experience in lieu of higher education.
In response to Councilmember Masuda's inquiry regarding the City's response to assist employees directly impacted by the Eaton Fire, Director Jacobs-Quinn reported that the City will be providing on- going support for employees during the recovery process.
Discussion ensued regarding the city-wide Gallup Poll results, training for the City's executive management team, action planning initiatives, long-term commitment to improve the City's Gallup Poll score, and correlations to key performance indicators.
Councilmember Madison suggested that future staff vacancy reports be presented to the Municipal Services Committee prior to being presented to the full City Council.
Alexandra Annala, Pasadena resident, advocated for college degree substitutes and utilizing alternative ways of assessing candidates' qualifications.
Council Minutes1505/19/2025
MOTION:
~1
MOTION:
REPORTS AND
COMMENTS FROM
COUNCIL COMMITTEES
Legislative Policy
Committee
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Cole, to close the public hearing:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, hlampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by Councilmember Cole, to approve the staff
recommendation.
Jones, Lyon, AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL DIRECTION TO
IMPLEMENT/TAKE ACTION ON TWO RECENT CITY CHARTER
APPROVED AMENDMENTS: 1) DIRECT THE CITY ATTORNEY
TO PREPARE AN ORDINANCE WITHIN 90 DAYS CODIFYING
THE PROCESS FOR FILLING CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT
VACANCIES BY APPOINTMENT; AND 2) DIRECT STAFF TO
INITIATE THE PROCESS FOR CONVENING A COUNCIL
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE (Office of the City Clerk)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed actions contained in the agenda report are exempt from review pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines § 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment;
(2) Direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance within 90 days codifying the process to fill City Council District vacancies by appointment, and additionally referring this matter to the Legislative Policy Committee to assist City staff in developing the details of the ordinance, including provisions for a public outreach and community engagement plan when vacancies occur; and
(3) Direct staff to initiate the process for convening a Committee on City Councilmembers' Compensation pursuant to City Charter Section 405 (as outlined in the agenda report), approve the proposed City staff support model for the work of the Committee, a timeline for the application period and Committee appointments by the City Council, and direction to staff to return with information regarding the scope of the Committee's compensation review.
City Clerk Jomsky provided a Powerpoint presentation on the item and responded to questions.
Council Minutes1605/19/2025
MOTION:
RECOMMENDATIONS
FROM OFFICERS AND
DEPARTMENTS
City Clerk
Councilmember Hampton
stated a potential conflict
of interest pertaining to
recent interest in real
property as of May 16,
2025, recused himself
from the item, and left the
meeting at 9:45 p.m.
Councilmember Madison provided a brief recap of the Legislative Policy Committee's discussion on this matter. He noted that the Committee advocated for public outreach efforts and taking public opinions into consideration.
It was moved by Councilmember Madison, seconded by
Councilmember Hampton, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
APPROVE THE COUNCIL DISTRICT NOMINATIONS OF THREE
TENANT MEMBERS SERVING COUNCIL DISTRICTS 3, 5,AND
7; AND CONDUCT AN INTERVIEW AND APPOINTMENT
PROCESS FOR TWO AT-LARGE MEMBERS, AND IF
NECESSARY, THE POSSIBLE APPOINTMENT OF AN
ALTERNATE TENANT MEMBER, TO SERVE ON THE
PASADENA RENTAL HOUSING BOARD (PRHB)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed actions contained in the agenda report are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines § 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment;
(2) Approve the Council District nominations of three Tenant Members representing Districts 3, 5, and 7, as follows:
Allison Henry as Pasadena Rental Housing Board District 3 Tenant Member, for a four-year term ending on May 24, 2029; Christine Rodriguez as Pasadena Rental Housing Board District 5 Tenant Member, for a four-year term ending on May 24,2029; Deborah Dunlop as Pasadena Rental Housing Board District 7 Tenant Member, for a four-year term ending on May 24, 2029; and
(3) Conduct an interview and appointment process to fill two At- Large Member positions to serve on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board, for four-year terms ending on May 24, 2029. Additionally, consider the possible appointment of an Alternate Tenant Member to fill an unscheduled vacancy, with the remaining term expiring of May 24, 2027.
City Clerk Jomsky provided a Powerpoint presentation on the item, providing an overview of the process to fill end of term appointments for tenant and at-large representatives.
The following individuals spoke on the current representation on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board ("PRHB") and/or provided other comments regarding new appointments to the PRHB:
Ryan Bell, Pasadena resident
Deborah Dunlop, Pasadena resident
Council Minutes1705/19/2025
',•
MOTION;
MOTION:
Lourdes Hernandez, Pasadena resident
Adam Bray All, Pasadena resident
Peter Drier, Pasadena resident
Brandon Lamar, Pasadena resident
Simon Gibbons, Pasadena resident, spoke on the processes and the financial statements of the PRHB.
Exie Marie Leagons, Pasadena resident, spoke on personal experiences and advocated for herself to be appointed to be on the PRHB.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that the 20 letters expressing concerns with Pasadena Rental Housing Board Members and/or advocating for adding more housing providers to the PRHB, and 1 letter advocating for transparency with PRHB's funds and how they are spent, were received by the City Clerk's office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by
Councilmember Lyon, to approve the CEQA recommendation and the proposed nominations for the Tenant Member seats representing District 3, 5, and 7, as stated in the Recommendation No. 2, on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board, for terms ending May 24, 2029:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember hlampton, Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
Councilmember Cole advocated for providing effective training for board members and commissioners, strengthening their ability to collaborate with others and make decisions.
The City Council announced their preferences from the pool of qualified applicants, and deliberated on the appointment of two at- large seats on the PRHB.
It was moved by Councilmember Madison, seconded by
Councilmember Jones, to appoint Emily Wernberg to an at-large seat on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board, term ending May 24, 2029.
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Hampton, Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
Council Minutes1805/19/2025
MOTION:
MOTION:
MOTION:
ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST:
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to appoint Varouge Mesrobian to the at-large seat on the PRHB.
Following discussion, Councilmember Cole withdrew his original motion and suggested that the City Council continue to deliberate between Varouge Mesrobian and Exie Marie Leagons as possible appointments to the at-large seat on the PRHB.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Madison, seconded by Council Lyon, to appoint Varouge Mesrobian to the at- large seat on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board.
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Hampton, Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
Following additional discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Madison, to appoint Brandon Lamar to the Alternate Tenant seat on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board.
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Hampton, Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
Vice Mayor Rivas expressed gratitude for all of the PRHB applicants for their efforts and participation in the process. She congratulated the appointees and thanked them for their willingness to serve.
On<oi\ler of the Vice Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adjoufied at 10:41 p.m^
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Victor M. Gordo, Mayor|^\
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Council Minutes1905/19/2025