Minutes — Pasadena City Council, July 21, 2025

OPENING:

CLOSED SESSION
ROLL CALL:

Councilmembers:

Staff:

CEREMONIAL MATTERS

CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
July 21, 2025-5:00 P.M.

City Hall Council Chamber
Mayor Gordo called the regular meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. (Absent: Councilmembers Lyon and Madison)
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 REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Property: 302 N. Garfield Ave., Pasadena, CA
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
Agency negotiator: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating parties: David J. Shophet
The above closed session item was 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)

CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding significant exposure to potential litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2): One (1) case
The above two closed session items were not discussed.

On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting reconvened at 6:06 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was led by Councilmember Jones.

Mayor Victor M. Gordo
Vice Mayor Jessica Rivas
Councilmember Rick Cole
Councilmember Tyron Hampton
Councilmember Justin Jones
Councilmember Jason Lyon (absent)
Councilmember Steve Madison (absent)
Councilmember Gene Masuda
City Manager Miguel Marquez
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Michele Beal Bagneris
City Clerk Mark Jomsky
City Clerk Jomsky administered the oath of office to Jeannine Hernandez, District 4 representative on the Senior Commission.

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PUBLIC COMMENT ON

MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
Janine Hou, Water & Power Department, Public Information Specialist, presented scholarship awards to the winners of the Pasadena Water & Power scholarship program, Luciana Piro and Alyssa Yepez. She also recognized the winners of the Be Water Wise Art Contest, Alice Zhang, Sharon Xu, Olivia Hur, and Barren Gu.

Sarah Goldman, Accessibility Coordinator, and Valerie Struski, Vice Chair of the Accessibility and Disability Commission, presented the Robert Gorski Access Award to Andrew Skinner from the Triumph Foundation. Mayor Gordo thanked Mr. Skinner for his dedication and commitment to providing access to adaptive sports for individuals with disabilities. Mr. Skinner thanked the City Council and the Accessibility and Disability Commission for the award, and spoke on continuing Robert Gorski's legacy to create and expand inclusivity.

Mayor Gordo also presented a proclamation proclaiming July 2025 as Americans with Disabilities month and recognizing the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Councilmember Jones and Councilmember Hampton presented a certificate of recognition to Dr. Michael Bell, retiring Rose City High School Principal, and spoke on his dedication serving students in the Pasadena Unified School District. Dr. Bell thanked the City Council for the recognition and expressed gratitude for being able to serve the community.

Mayor Gordo requested that the City Council meeting be adjourned in memory of Dr. Jaime Regalado, a longtime Pasadena resident and friend. He spoke on Dr. Regalado's legacy as a civic leader committed to public service, political education, and tirelessly advocating for democratic engagement.

The following individuals provided comments on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and advocated for the City to divest from specific companies:

Elizabeth Hogsten, Pasadena resident
JustineWuebold, Pasadena resident
Randall Heyn Lamb, Pasadena resident
Joan Woodford Abu Bakir, Pasadena resident
Ata Nabawi, India resident
Valeric Struski, Accessibility and Disability Commission, urged the City Council to reaffirm its commitment to upholding frameworks that reflect inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.

Rene Gonzalez, Pasadena resident, spoke in support of establishing a sister-city relationship with Guanajuato, Mexico.

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CONSENT CALENDAR
City Manager/ Executive
Director
The following individuals spoke on the established process for selecting sister-city relationships (citing the work and effort that went into establishing the relationship with Dakar-Plateau, Senegal), the role of the Pasadena Sister-Cities Committee, and the need for allowing the Committee to do its work in terms of identifying the best sister-city relationship with a city in Mexico, and/or provided related comments:

Tunisia Offray, Pasadena resident
MaryEtta Knox, Pasadena resident
Gina Tervalon, Pasadena resident
Lena Louis Kennedy, Pasadena resident
The following individuals advocated for continued discussion of AB392 at a future Public Safety Committee meeting:

Olden Denham, Pasadena resident
Alien Shay, Pasadena resident
In response to public comment, Mayor Gordo noted that the Sister City Committee has a formal process and makes the official recommendations to the City Council for Pasadena to enter sister- city relationships.

Councilmember Cole requested agendizing discussion on ethical investments at the next Finance Committee meeting and reported that the Fire and Police Retirement System Board has also expressed interest in exploring an ethical investment policy under their autonomy.

AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO AMEND CONTRACT NO.
31758 WITH GLEN JOHN APRAMIAN MD, INC. FOR VARIOUS

MEDICAL SERVICES TO INCREASE THE NOT-TO-EXCEED
AMOUNT BY $125,000 AND TO EXTEND THE CONTRACT TERM
(Human Resources Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed actions in the agenda report are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) "Common Sense" exemption; (2) Authorize the City Manager to amend Contract No. 31758 with Glen John Apramian MD, Inc. DBA St. George's Medical Clinic by $125,000, thereby increasing the total not-to exceed amount from $1,100,000 to $1,225,000 and to extend the contract term for three months to continue to provide medical services (Contract No. 31758- 2);and
(3) To the extent the amendment to Contract No. 31758 could be considered a separate procurement subject to the Competitive Selection Process, grant the contract an exemption pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) Section 4.08.049(B), contracts for which the City's best interests are served. These transactions are Council Minutes307/21/2025
exempt from competitive bidding per PMC Section 4.08.030 and City Charter Section 1002(F) based on contracts for professional or unique services.

ADOPT A RESOLUTION ELIMINATING HOLIDAY PAY AND

REVISING THE SALARIES FOR THE DEPUTY POLICE CHIEF,

DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF, AND POLICE COMMANDER
CLASSIFICATIONS (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) Adopt a Resolution eliminating holiday pay and revising the salaries for the Deputy Police Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, and Police Commander classifications. (Resolution No. 10146)

AUTHORIZATION FOR SUBMITTAL OF GRANT APPLICATION

LETTER OF COMMITMENT AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION
FOR THE HAZARD MITIGATION GRANT PROGRAM (Planning
Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the actions proposed in the agenda report are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3);
(2) Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to submit a letter of commitment for submittal of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program application. (Resolution No. 10147)

AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A

CONTRACT WITH HCI ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENGINEERING

FOR CRIME SCENE CLEANUP SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-
TO-EXCEED $1,777,750 FOR THREE YEARS WITH THE OPTION

OF TWO ONE-YEAR EXTENSIONS (PPD)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find the proposed action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3); the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into contract as a result of the competitive bidding process with HCI Environmental and Engineering, for crime scene cleanup services, in an amount not-to- exceed a grand total of $1,777,750 for three years, which includes the option for two one-year extensions or an amount not-to-exceed $355,550 annually, at the discretion of the City Manager. (Contract No.33361)
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AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A

CONTRACT WITH AIRWAVE COMMUNICATIONS

ENTERPRISES, FOR POLICE VEHICLE UPFITTING, IN AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED THE GRAND TOTAL OF $750,000

FOR THREE YEARS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST (PPD)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find the proposed action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3); the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract as a result of the competitive bid process with Airwave Communications Enterprises in an amount not-to-exceed the grand total of $750,000 for three years, whichever occurs first. (Contract No. 33362) Sonja Berndt, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns
regarding the appropriated funds to the Pasadena Police Department for the proposed contract, and advocated for general funds to be appropriated for services for unhoused individuals.

REJECTION OF BIDS FOR GUARDRAIL PROGRAM (Public
Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080(b)(5)(projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves) and Section 15270 of the State CEQA Guidelines; and
(2) Reject all bids received on May 1, 2025 in response to the Notice Inviting Bids for Guardrail Program.

AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A

CONTRACT WITH SOUTHWEST PIPELINE AND TRENCHLESS

CORP FOR THE ANNUAL SEWER RELINING AND POINT
REPAIRS FY 2026 PROJECT FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $2,906,000 (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, Class 1, §15301, 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) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as the result of the competitive bid process as stated by section 4.08.045 of the Pasadena Municipal Code with Southwest Pipeline and Trenchless Corp in response to the plans and specifications for the Annual Sewer Relining and Point Repairs FY 2026 project and authorize the Council Minutes507/21/2025
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City Manager to enter into a contract for an amount not-to-exceed $2,906,000 which includes the base contract amount of $2,767,375 and a contingency of $138,625 to provide for unforeseen change orders. (Contract No. 33324)

ADOPT A RESOLUTION ORDERING THE SUMMARY VACATION
OF A PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT LOCATED AT 650 CARROLL
WAY (Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15305, Class 5 (Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations);
(2) Adopt a Resolution ordering the summary vacation of a public utility easement located within the property at 650 Carroll Way (Resolution No. 10148); and
(3) Authorize the City Manager to execute any other
documentation as may be required to accomplish said summary vacation.

AUTHORIZATION TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION TO THE STATE

OF CALIFORNIA FOR HOMELESS HOUSING, ASSISTANCE
AND PREVENTION ROUND 6 FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF
$677,599 (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 per 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 submittal of an application, as part of the Los Angeles County regional application, to the State of California for Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Round 6 ("HHAP-6") funding in the amount of $677,599 for eligible programs and activities that serve people experiencing homelessness; and
(3) Authorize the City Manager to certify or execute, and the City Clerk to attest, the application and all other documents, agreements and amendments related to the application and subsequent HHAP- 6 award.

REPORT ON EMERGENCY REPAIR TO GAS TURBINE 3 (Water
& Power Dept.)
Recommendation: The agenda report is for information only as required by Pasadena Municipal Code ("PMC") Section 4.08.150 for any emergency purchase where the expenditure exceeds $250,000.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTAMD TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE:

AUTHORIZE THE SUBMITTAL OF AN APPLICATION TO THE

BURBANK-GLENDALE-PASADENA REGIONAL HOUSING

TRUST FOR FUNDING IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
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$2,000,000 FOR AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT AT 231
N. HILL AVENUE (Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the actions proposed in the agenda report are not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Section 15378(b);
(2) Authorize the City of Pasadena to apply for funding from the Burbank Glendale-Pasadena Regional hlousing Trust ("BGPRHT") in an amount not-to-exceed $2,000,000 for an affordable housing development located at 231 N. Hill Avenue that will provide affordable housing to transitional age youth aged 18 to 24 years; and (3) Authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to execute, on behalf of the City, the BGPRHT funding application, along with any associated funding documents and agreements, as well as any amendments thereto, as required for participation in the BGPRHT funding program.

The following individuals expressed support for the proposed application and spoke on the importance of affordable housing for transitional age youth:

Jill Shook, Pasadena resident
Anthony Manousos, Pasadena resident
FINANCECOMMITTEE:AMENDTHEHOUSING
DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL YEAR 2026 OPERATING BUDGET BY
RECOGNIZING AND APPROPRIATING $100,000 IN THE OTHER
HOUSING FUND; AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER

INTO A CONTRACT WITH THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES IN THE
AMOUNT OF $398,830 TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE HOUSING

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH AIDS TENANT-BASED
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 per Section 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment;
(2) Amend the Department of Housing's Fiscal Year 2026
Operating Budget by recognizing revenue and appropriating $100,000 of Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) funds in the Other Housing Fund (238) for rental assistance (Budget Amendment No. 2026-3);
(3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with the City of Los Angeles in the amount of $398,830 to continue to provide HOPWA-funded rental assistance (Contract No. 24,273);; and (4) Authorize the City Manager to execute, and the City Clerk to attest, all related documents, agreements, and amendments.

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Yadi, Pasadena resident, urged for the City to continue to support and advocate for strong anti-discrimination laws that protect all individuals.

FINANCE COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO

CONTRACT WITH LOS ANGELES TRUCK

DBA VELOCITY VEHICLE GROUP TO

ENTER INTO A

CENTERS, LLC
PURCHASE NINE BATTLE MOTORS LET2 ELECTRIC HEAVY-

DUTY TRUCKS, FOR A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$5,116,060 AND AMEND THE FISCAL YEAR 2026 PUBLIC
WORKS OPERATING BUDGET BY APPROPRIATING $2,340,000

FROM THE EPA CLEAN HEAVY-DUTY GRANT PROGRAM
(Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed actions in the agenda report are not "projects" as defined in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections
15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, are not subject to environmental review;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, without competitive bidding pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(H), contracts with other governmental entities or their contractors for labor, materials, supplies, or services, with Los Angeles Truck Centers, LLC dba Velocity Vehicle Group for the purchase of nine Battle Motors LET2 electric heavy-duty trucks in an amount not-to- exceed $5,116,060, which includes the base contract amount of $4,650,964 and a contingency of $465,096 to provide for any necessary change orders (Contract No. TBD);
(3) Grant the recommended contract an exemption from the Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section 4.08.049(B) contracts for which the City's best interests are served;
(4) Amend the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Public Works Operating Budget to recognize and appropriate $2,340,000 from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles (CHDV) Grant Program (Budget Amendment No. 2026- 33353); and
(5) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments to the subject contract including durational extensions.

FINANCE COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO

ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH DOKKEN ENGINEERING,
INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,637,058 FOR 1) PREPARATION OF

THE ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT AND PRELIMINARY
ENGINEERING (PHASE 1A) IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$781,185 AND 2) PREPARATION OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS,
AND ESTIMATES (PHASE 1B) IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$855,873 FOR THE SAN RAFAEL BRIDGE SEISMIC RETROFIT
PROJECT, AND AMENDMENT TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2026
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CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM BUDGET (Public Works
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 Resource 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 Dokken
Engineering, Inc., for preparation of the environmental document and preliminary engineering (Phase 1A), for a total amount not-to- exceed $781,185, which includes the base contract amount of $721,185 and acontingencyof$60,000to 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. 33325);
(3) Authorize the City Manager to amend the proposed contract with Dokken Engineering, Inc., for preparation of plans, specifications, and estimates (Phase 1B), in an amount not-to- exceed $855,873, which includes the base contract amount of $795,873 and a contingency of $60,000 to provide for any necessary change orders, upon completion of Phase 1A work and receipt of additional expenditure authorization from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for Phase 1B of the project; and (4) Amend the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budget by appropriating $285,066 in Highway Bridge Program Funds and transferring $46,000 in General Fund from Colorado Street Bridge Barrier Enhancements - Design Phase (73324) to the San Rafael Bridge Seismic Retrofit (73946) project. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-05)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO

ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

EDISON TO PERFORM SUBSTATION UPGRADE WORK FOR
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $4,551,666, AND AMEND THE
FISCAL YEAR 2026 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

BUDGET FOR THE TRANSMISSION SYSTEM ENHANCEMENTS
PROJECT (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the project in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to the State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15301 (Existing Facilities) and 15302 (Replacement or Reconstruction) and that there are no features that distinguish this project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement, without competitive bidding pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(0), contracts for labor, materials, supplies or services available from only Council Minutes907/21/2025
one vendor, with Southern California Edison ("SCE") to perform necessary substation upgrades for the Pasadena Water and Power Department ("PWP"), in an amount not-to-exceed $4,551,666 which includes the base contract amount of $4,137,878 and a contingency of $413,788 to provide for any necessary change orders (Contract No.33326);
(3) Grant the recommended contract an exemption from the Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section 4.08.049(B) contracts for which the City's best interests are served;
(4) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments to the subject contract including durational extensions; and (5) Amend the Fiscal Year ("FY") 2026 Capital Improvement Program Budget by appropriating $2,698,666 from the Power Capital Fund to the Transmission System Enhancements (03195) project. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-06)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: SUPPORT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF

AN IMMIGRANT ASSISTANCE FUND AND AMEND THE CITY'S
FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2026 OPERATING BUDGET BY $100,000 TO
CONTRIBUTE SEED FUNDING FOR THE FUND (Office of the City Manager)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is covered by the "Common Sense" exemption set forth in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(c) as CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment; and (2) Amend the City Manager's FY 2026 Operating Budget by appropriating $100,000 from the unappropriated fund balance of the General Fund to support the establishment of an Immigrant Assistance Fund. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-07)
Mayor Gordo reported that the staff recommendation for the item was amended to include authorizing the City Manager (at his sole discretion) to potentially offer an added incentive contribution of $20,000 in City funding, subject to the City Manager's determination that such funds are available, and restricting the incentive contribution as "matching" funds, subject to the collective contribution of at least $200,000 from outside non-profit organizations, businesses, and/or individuals to the Immigrant Assistance Fund, with the potential total authorization by the City Council in the amount of $120,000 of City funds (as conditioned above).

FINANCE COMMITTEE: AMENDMENT TO THE FISCAL YEAR
2026 GENERAL FEE SCHEDULE (Public Health 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) I
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)
City Council

RESIGNATIONS,

APPOINTMENTS, &

REAPPOINTMENTS
City Attorney
pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Tolls, Fares, and Charges); and
(2) It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution amending the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 General Fee Schedule by revising the Public Health Department fees (Fee Number 632). The fee is an hourly based rate for Plan Check Consultation/Site Evaluation within the Environmental Health Plan Check and Inspection category. The proposed increase is from $166 to $224 to support costs recovery efforts and to align with already existing adopted fees within Environmental Health that match this structure. (Resolution No. 10149)
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY

MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH LA CARE

TO SUPPORT IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CALIFORNIA

ADVANCING AND INNOVATING MEDI-CAL (CAL-AIM) FOR AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $991,128 FOR A PERIOD OF THREE
YEARS (Public Health Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required; and (2) Authorize the City Manager to enter an agreement with L.A.

Care to accept and administer funds on behalf of the City of Pasadena to implement maternal health improvement activities for the population eligible for Medi-Cal. (Contract No. 24,274)

APPOINTMENT OF JOSEPH CO TO THE PASADENA CENTER
OPERATING COMPANY BOARD (Mayor/Property Owner
Nomination)

RESIGNATION OF ALEX JABLONSKI FROM THE ARTS &
CULTURE COMMISSION (District 1 Nomination)

AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO ENTER INTO A

CONTRACT WITH WEST PUBLISHING CORPORATION FOR

ONLINE LEGAL RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS, AS WELL AS

LEGAL BOOKS AND FORMS FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $591,158 OVER THREE YEARS
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Section 15378(b);
(2) Authorize the City Attorney to enter into a contract, with West Publishing Corporation for online research, publications, as well as legal books and forms, in an amount not-to-exceed $591,158 over three years, including contingency amount of $53,745. Competitive Council Minutes1107/21/2025

CLAIMS RECEIVED AND
FILED

PUBLIC HEARING SET
MOTION:

MOTION:
bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services (Contract No. 33323) ; and
(3) Grant the proposed contract an exemption from the competitive selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section

4.08.09(8), contracts for which the City's best interests served.

Claim No. Claimant
2026-0010 Raymond Lloyd Case
2026-0011 Geico
2026-0012 Edison International
2026-0013 Daisy Ramos
2026-0014 Verl Lloyd Philliber Jr.
2026-0015 State Farm a/s/o Lorraine
Steven Sals
2026-0016 Mercury Insurance a/s/o Dan Li
Claim Amount
$1,000.00
10,000.00
35,000.00+
2,000.00
35,000.00+
7,211.09
4,369.75
August 18, 2025, 6:00 p.m. - Approval of the Substantial Amendment to the 2021 and 2024 Annual Action Plans for the Community Development Block Grant and Home Investment
Partnership Act Funds
In accordance with Brown Act disclosure requirements, and prior to City Council action, Mayor Gordo reported on the compensation adjustments associated with the Deputy Police Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, and Police Commander classifications.

It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to approve alt items on the Consent Calendar, with the exception of Item 5, and with the amended recommendation for Item 16 to authorize the City Manager (at his sole discretion) to potentially offer an added incentive contribution of $20,000 in City funding, subject to the City Manager's determination that such funds are available, and restricting the incentive contribution as "matching" funds, subject to the total collective contribution of at least $200,000 from outside non-profit organizations, businesses, and/or individuals to the Immigrant Assistance Fund, with the potential total authorization by the City Council in the amount of $120,000 of City funds. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Lyon and Madison)
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by Vice Mayor Rivas, to approve the staff recommendation for Item 5.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Masuda, Vice Mayor
Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Councilmember Hampton
ABSENT: Councilmembers Lyon and Madison
ABSTAIN: None
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OLD BUSINESSAUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH UTILITY TREE SERVICE, LLC. FOR TREE

TRIMMING, VEGETATION MANAGEMENT, AND EMERGENCY

RESPONSE SERVICES FOR POWER LINE CLEARANCE FOR

UP TO SIX YEARS FOR A GRAND TOTAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $25,800,000 (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Article 19, Class 1, Section 15301, Existing facilities, Subsection(h) which exempts maintenance of existing landscaping and that there are no features that distinguish the project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances; and
(2) Award contract to lowest and best bid dated March 11, 2025, submitted by Utility Tree Service, LLC ("UTS") in response to the project plans and specifications for Tree Trimming, Vegetation Management, and Emergency Response Services for Power Line Clearance, authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract for up to six years for a grand total amount not-to-exceed $25,800,000, which includes the option for one additional one-year extension or an amount not-to-exceed $4,600,000, whichever occurs first, at the discretion of the City Manager.

In response to Councilmember Hampton's inquiry regarding contractor licensing requirements, Jerome Bragg, Senior Project Manager, provided information on licensing requirements listed in the project bid documents related to tree-trimming services, including the functional equivalence of certain licences, and City staff's communication to potential contractors in advance of the bid submission deadline. David Reyes, General Manager of Water & Power, added that the while the bid process was still open, City staff clarified questions regarding appropriate licensing.

Hugh Lee, legal counsel for Tree Services King, expressed concerns regarding different interpretations of the bid requirements and that an addendum regarding acceptable
licensing was not added to the bid process.

Following discussion regarding the lack of clarity regarding licensing requirements stated in the bid, Councilmember hlampton advocated for the project to be rebid.

Mayor Gordo expressed concerns with rejecting the proposed contract and rebidding the project, noting he was not convinced that legal defect or procedural infirmity existed that warranted such an action.

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MOTION:

Discussion ensued regarding the possibility of rejecting the proposed bid results, rebidding the project, the time remaining on the City's current contract, the ability for the City to address pending tree maintenance needs under the existing contract, and the timeline for rebidding.

Following discussion, Mayor Gordo advocated for the City to consider bringing the proposed services in-house (tree trimming, vegetation management, and emergency response services for power line clearance services) by hiring professional City staff to do the work, and suggested that the Municipal Services Committee discuss and consider a transition to in-house staff as opposed to contracting the work to outside vendors. General Manager Reyes added that the contract duration for the proposed services may be reduced if the City Council chooses to instead transition the services to in-house operations.

Following discussion, General Manager Reyes stated that, in light of the discussion to rebid the project, he suggested that the most expedient way forward is for the City Council reject the bids, direct staff to proceed with reissuing the bid, and to also return to the City Council on August 18, 2025, with a recommended contract extension with the existing vendor, allowing City staff to continue to maintain necessary response services, while concurrently issuing new bid documents to establish a new contract without a gap in service.

Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by Councilmember Cole, to reject all bids and direct City staff to reissue new bid documents, and return at the August 18, 2025 City Council meeting with a recommendation to extend the existing contract for the reasons stated above.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Masuda,
Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Lyon and Madison
ABSTAIN: None
HOMELESSNESS IN PASADENA 2024-2025: RESULTS OF THE
2024 ANNUAL COUNT AND 2025 POINT IN TIME COUNT
(Housing Dept.)
Recommendation: There is no staff recommendation for this item.

The City Council may, however, take action relating to this item as it deems appropriate following consideration and discussion of the matter.

James Wong, Housing Director, provided introductory comments on the item, and expressed appreciation to City staff and departments for helping to make the annual homeless count possible.

Council Minutes1407/21/2025
Jennifer O'Reilly-Jones, Housing Program Coordinator, provided a Powerpoint presentation on the item, sharing details on the 2024 Annual Count, the 2025 Point in Time Count, regional collaboration efforts to improve homelessness, and the City's initiatives to mitigate homelessness and expand resources and housing.

In response to Councilmember Masuda's inquiry regarding the Eaton Fire's impact on the homelessness count data, Housing Program Coordinator O'Reilly-Jones reported that although 12 individuals indicated they were directly affected by the Eaton Fire prior to being relocated, none stated that the fire resulted in their homelessness.

She further noted that the impacts from the fire may have been limited by the surge of available resources provided by various organizations in the aftermath of the incident.

Sonja Berndt, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns
regarding the City's lack of action and transparency for addressing homelessness and advocated for the City to create a housing and homelessness committee.

In response to public comment, Mayor Gordo noted that local governments are faced with these unprecedented times due to the federal administration's decision to cut funding without providing the City with details on which programs and services will be impacted.

Councilmembers Cole and Hampton advocated for the City Council to consider creating a Housing and Homelessness Committee.

Councilmember Hampton expressed concerns regarding the racial disparities in the homelessness count data and potential biases from service providers that may hinder homeless individuals of African diaspora from receiving assistance.

Councilmember Jones advocated for the City to provided
connections and resources to unhoused individuals while conducting the annual homelessness count and survey.

In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding the scope of work occurring at Centennial Place, Housing Director Wong reported that Centennial Place is undergoing physical renovation as well as programmatic conversion from an intensive case management model to housing very low-income seniors and seniors at risk of homelessness. He also reported that the City Council has approved funding for an additional 50 units for permanent supportive housing for transitional age youth (see Consent Calendar Item 11 above), resulting in a net increase in permanent supportive housing in the City, so Centennial residents will not be losing their housing. He confirmed that the renovation project does have a policy that prevents displacement of existing residents.

Council Minutes1507/21/2025

RECOMMENDATIONS

FROM OFFICERS AND

DEPARTMENTS
City Manager
Following discussion, on order of the Mayor, by consensus of the City Council, the information was received and filed.

AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH PCL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC., FOR

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT-RISK PRECONSTRUCTION,

DESIGN-ASSIST, AND SELECTIVE DEMOLITION SERVICES
FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $8,652,340 FOR THE

CENTRAL LIBRARY SEISMIC RETROFIT AND RENOVATIONS
PROJECT (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, 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) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as a result of the competitive selection process, as specified by Section

4.08.136 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with PCL Construction Services, Inc., for preconstruction and design-assist services for the Central Library Seismic Retrofit and Renovations project, for a total amount not-to-exceed $8,652,340, which includes a base contract amount of $7,865,764 and a contingency of $786,576 to provide for any necessary additional services. Competitive bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F) (contracts for professional or unique services). (Contract No.33313)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO AMEND CONTRACT NO.
32526 WITH GRUEN ASSOCIATES BY $3,452,454 FOR A TOTAL
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $9,556,563 FOR PROFESSIONAL

SERVICES FOR THE CENTRAL LIBRARY SEISMIC RETROFIT
AND RENOVATIONS PROJECT (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) in accordance with Title 14, Chapter 3, Article 19, Section 15061, Class 3, the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA only applies to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to amend Contract No. 32526 with Gruen Associates by $3,452,454, increasing the not-to-exceed amount to $9,556,563 for professional services for the Central Library Seismic Retrofit and Renovations project (Contract No. 32526-1); and
(3) To the extent the transaction in the agenda report could be considered a separate procurement subject to the Competitive Selection Process, grant the proposed contract amendment with Gruen Associates an exemption from the Competitive Selection Process set forth in the Competitive Bidding and Purchasing Council Minutes1607/21/2025
n
Ordinance pursuant to the Pasadena Municipal Code Section

4.08.049(B), contracts where the best interests of the City are sen/ed.
/terns 24 and 25 were heard concurrently, with Item 26 also related to the Library Seismic Retrofit and Renovation project.

In response to Councilmember Hampton's inquiry regarding PCL's local outreach plan, Brianna Weaver, PCL Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Manager, presented the economic impact initiatives and local hire plan for the Central Library Project. She also spoke on equitable access and education opportunities offered through this project to build capacity, train, and create an employment pipeline for individuals in the local community who may seek a career path in construction. Councilmember Hampton advocated for the hiring of local workforce who are ready to work without having to meet certain training requirements set by PCL.

In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding PCL's plan to hire individuals who may face employment barriers, Ms. Weaver reported that PCL partners with organizations, such as Flintridge Center, who help identify individuals who face such barriers.

In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding the development of the guaranteed maximum price (GMP) for
construction, Greg deVinck, Public Works Director, reported that the proposed contract will be an open book process which allows the City to review bids with the construction manager, provide input, and establish predetermined markups, profits, overhead, etc.

In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding the bid not having a local hire requirement, Public Works Director de Vinck reported that the requirement is applicable when projects receive City financial assistance, or is voluntarily applied to private construction projects. He noted that due to the project being primarily renovative and the low construction tax on the project, the City is not able to offer an attractive financial incentive, which limits the opportunity to implement a local hire requirement.

Councilmember Cole suggested that the City implement a year- round local hire program what would provide updates to a City Council committee and expressed support to build a comprehensive approach to job training.

Mayor Gordo spoke on the importance of proper job training, and the understanding of safety principles and elements needed for the construction line of work. He advocated for helping young individuals access training and education to build the necessary skills and qualifications to perform job duties consistent with certain job titles.

Council Minutes1707/21/2025
n
MOTION:

ORDINANCE - FIRST

READING
Ronald K Matthews, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns that the proposed project does not have a local hire requirement but rather makes it a voluntary preference, and he advocated for the City Council to require a formal local workforce utilization plan from PCL.

Ibrahim Naeem, Pasadena resident, advocated for local
residents to have opportunities to work for their own
communities.

In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry if the City could legally require PCL to comply with the City's first source hiring ordinance, Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney, clarified that the requirement is not applicable to this project because it is a City-led project and not a private developer project.

Councilmember Cole requested City staff to look into the first source hiring ordinance and the applicability of the local hiring requirement to projects where the City is paying for the project versus providing some financial assistance for a private developer to build a project (as stated in the Pasadena Municipal Code).

In response to Councilmember Hampton's inquiry regarding the application of the 10% metric for the local hiring and economic impact, Ms. Weaver clarified that the 10% is in relation to the GMP for construction that begins in January 2026, and not for the current demolition phase of the project.

Chief Assistant City Attorney Lee clarified that the staff recommendation exemption for competitive bid is under City Charter Section 1002(F) and Section 1002(1).

Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by Councilmember Cole to approve the staff
recommendations for Item 24 and Item 25. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Lyon and Madison)
Conduct first reading of "AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE

CITY OF PASADENA AUTHORIZING THE SETTING OF THE
FISCAL YEAR 2025-26 TAX RATE FOR THE CITY'S GENERAL

OBLIGATION BONDS (CENTRAL LIBRARY PROJECT)
APPROVED BY THE VOTERS AT THE NOVEMBER 5, 2024

STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION AND REQUESTING AND

AUTHORIZING THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO LEVY A

TAX ON ALL REAL PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF PASADENA AS
A VOTER APPROVED LEVY WITH RESPECT TO SAID BONDS"
The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Hampton:

Council Minutes1807/21/2025

ORDINANCES -

SECOND READING

ADJOURNMENT
ATTES.

THE PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING FIRE HAZARD
SEVERITY ZONE MAP" (Ordinance No. 7451)
Yadi, Pasadena resident, advocated for emergency
preparedness for communities in high fire zones.

The ordinance above was adopted by the following vote:

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Lyon and Madison
ABSTAIN: None
Adopt "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PASADENA
AMENDING SECTIONS 2.05.160, 2.05.170, 2.05.180, 2.05.190, AND 2.05.200 OF TITLE 2, CHAPTER 2.05 OF THE PASADENA
MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING COUNCIL COMMITTEES"
(Ordinance No. 7452)
The ordinance above was adopted by the following vote:

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Lyon and Madison
ABSTAIN: None
On order of the Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adjourned at 10:05 p.m. in memory of the third year anniversary of the passing of former Pasadena City Councilmember John J.

Kennedy and Dr. Jaime Rejgalado.
^w\-
Victor M. Gordo, Mayor
City of Pasadena
Citi^
Council Minutes1907/21/2025

Pasadena City CouncilJuly 21, 2025

Pasadena City Council
July 21, 2025