Minutes, regular meeting — Pasadena City Council, October 27, 2025

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OPENING:

CLOSED SESSION

CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
October 27, 2025-5:00 P.M.

City Hall Council Chamber
Teleconference Locations:

JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul
279, Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu
Seoul, South Korea, 03198
Business Center
Delta Hotels Toronto
75 Lower Simone Street
Toronto, Ontario Canada, M5J3A6
Business Center, Conf. Room A106
Mayor Gordo called the regular meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. (Absent: Councilmember Hampton)
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting recessed at 5:00 p.m. to discuss the following closed session items:

CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Property Addresses:

1. 165 Hurlbut Street, Pasadena, CA

2. 215Wigmore Drive, Pasadena, CA

3. 225 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, CA

4. 230 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, CA

5. 235 Bellefontaine Street, Pasadena, CA

6. 600 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA

7. 602 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA

8. 640 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA

9. 646 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA

10. 714 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA

11. 726 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA

12. 737 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA

13. 866 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA

14. 925 Jane Place, Pasadena, CA

15. 929 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA

16. 966 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA

17. 1030 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA

18. 1150 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA

19. 1151 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA

20. 1199 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
Agency negotiator: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating parties: State of California,
Transportation
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
Department of
Council Minutes 1 10/27/2025
ROLL CALL:

Councilmembers:

The above closed session item was discussed, with no reportable action taken at this time.

CONSIDERATION OF INITIATION OF LITIGATION pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4): Two potential cases Only one of the two potential cases above for the listed closed session item was discussed. City Attorney Bagneris reported that for the one case discussed, the City Council authorized the filing of litigation, and the parties and particulars will be made public once filed upon request pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.1.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Hampton
ABSTAIN: None

CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Property addresses: 299 N. Euclid Ave.; 199 S. Los Robles Ave.; 150 S. Los Robles Ave.; 221 E. Walnut St; 1055 E. Colorado Blvd.; 215 N. Marengo Ave.

Agency Negotiator: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating Parties: Euclid Holdings I and Euclid Holdings; 199 Los Robles, LLC, Sand 199 S. Los Robles, LLC and Robles SM, LLC; Sherman Oaks Capital Associates, L.P., and Pasadena Holdings, LLC., dba Pasadena Tri City Ventures; Park Center L.P.; BCSP 1055 East Colorado Property LLC.; Walnut Plaza, L.P., respectively.

Under Negotiation: Price and Terms

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

On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting reconvened at 6:59 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was led by Councilmember Masuda.

Mayor Victor M. Gordo
Vice Mayor Jessica Rivas
Councilmember Rick Cole
Councitmember Tyron Hampton (via teleconference)
Councilmember Justin Jones
Councilmember Jason Lyon
Councilmember Steve Madison (via teleconference)
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Council Minutes 2 10/27/2025
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Staff:

CEREMONIAL MATTERS

PUBLIC COMMENT ON

MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
City Manager Miguel Marquez
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Michele Beal Bagneris
City Clerk Mark Jomsky
Councilmember Jones requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Wendell Harmon, a longtime recreation leader with the City of Pasadena, as well as his wife Beverly Harmon. Mayor Gordo spoke on Mr. Harmon's tenure with the City and his integral role in the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Department.

The following individuals spoke on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and/or advocated for the City to divest from specific companies:

Rob Muthiah, Pasadena resident
Chaplain Andrea Cammarota, Pasadena resident
Fr. Mark Hallahan, Los Angeles resident
Sue Park-Hur, Pasadena resident
Reverand Rosa Candida Ramirez, Pasadena resident
Michael Sosa, Clergy Community Coalition
Nicola Patton, Alhambra resident
Ines Velasquez-McBryde, Pasadena resident
Chalsea Landeros, Pasadena resident
The following individuals advocated for the City Council to create and adopt a resolution in support of the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act and provided comments on environmentalism:

Susan Dembowski, Pasadena resident
Teresa, San Gabriel resident
Carlos Resales Jr., Pasadena resident
Atticus Jackson, Sierra Madre resident
Eva Gonzalez, residence not stated
Sonja Berndt, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding to the posted agenda for last week's Economic Development and Technology Committee meeting and potential Brown Act violations related to the description of the Annual Point-ln-Time Homeless Count item that was listed.

Jill Davis, Pasadena resident, advocated for the City Council to remain neutral and not support a resolution divesting from Israel.

Olden Denham, Pasadena resident, advocated for the City to continue discussion of AB 392 and the officer involved shooting of Anthony McClain.

Alien Shay, Pasadena resident, advocated for civic engagement and fairness.

Council Minutes 3 10/27/2025
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CONSENT CALENDAR
City Manager/ Executive
Director
In response to public comment, Councilmember Lyon requested for the Legislative Policy Committee to review the matter of the Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act. Vice Mayor Rivas responded that the matter is anticipated to be on the next Legislative Policy Committee meeting agenda.

JOINT ACTION: AUTHORIZE THE DEFERRED COMPENSATION

PLAN ADMINISTRATOR TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR UP

TO TEN YEARS WITH EMPOWER ANNUITY INSURANCE

COMPANY OF AMERICA TO PROVIDE PLAN

ADMINISTRATION, INVESTMENT OPTIONS, RECORD

KEEPING, AND PARTICIPANT EDUCATION SERVICES FOR
THE CITY'S DEFERRED COMPENSATION (457(B) AND 401 (A))
PLANS (Finance 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) Authorize the Deferred Compensation Plan Administrator (Director of Finance) to enter into a contract, as a result of a competitive selection process, as specified in Section 4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with Empower Annuity Insurance Company of America, for a period of five years with one five-year optional extension period, to provide plan administration, investment options, record keeping, and participant education services for the City's Deferred Compensation (IRC §457(b)) and Defined Contribution (IRC §401 (a)) plans. Competitive bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F), contracts for professional or unique services. (Contract No. 24,328)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: JOINT ACTION APPROVE THE

EXTENSION OF THE STANDBY BOND PURCHASE
AGREEMENT (SBPA) WITH BMO BANK, N.A. (AS SUCCESSOR

TO BANK OF THE WEST) RELATED TO THE PASEO
COLORADO BONDS (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that this 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) Adopt a resolution of the City Council of the City of Pasadena approving the form of and authorizing the execution and delivery of a fourth amendment to standby bond purchase agreement; and authorizing the execution and delivery of other related documents and approval of other documents and actions in connection therewith (Resolution No. 10156); and
(3) To the extent that the proposed amendment of the SBPA could be considered subject to a new competitive selection process, grant the proposed amendment an exemption from the competitive Council Minutes 4 10/27/2025
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selection process of the Competitive Bidding and Purchasing Ordinance, Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter 4.08, pursuant to Section 4.08.049(8) contracts for which the City's best interests are served.

It is recommended that the Pasadena Public Financing Authority:
(1) Adopt a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Pasadena Public Financing Authority approving the form of and authorizing the execution and delivery of a fourth amendment to standby bond purchase agreement; and authorizing the execution and delivery of other related documents and approval of other documents and actions in connection therewith. (PPFA-34)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO FISCAL
YEAR 2026 ADOPTED OPERATING BUDGET (Finance 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 State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Section 15378(b); and
(2) Approve amending the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Adopted
Operating Budget as detailed in the agenda report. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-14)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: APPROVE FISCAL YEAR 2025

GENERAL FUND EMERGENCY CONTINGENCY COMMITMENT
OF $51,292,500 AND UP TO $17,097,500 IN THE GENERAL
FUND OPERATING RESERVE COMMITMENT (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required.
(2) Adopt a resolution approving the City of Pasadena General Fund Emergency Contingency commitment of $51,292,500 and General Fund Operating Reserve commitment of up to $17,097,500 (with the final amount to be determined upon conclusion of Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 financial statement preparation based solely on General Fund sub-fund 101 (Fund 101)). (Resolution No. 10157) FINANCE COMMITTEE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING

THE CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO ENTER INTO AN

AGREEMENT WITH THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF

TRANSPORTATION (CALTRANS) TO RECEIVE GRANT

FUNDING FOR THE SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION

PLANNING GRANT (STPG) PROGRAM IN THE AMOUNT OF
$442,650 TO DEVELOP THE ROSEBOWL AREA AND

BROOKSIDE PARK MULTIMODAL CONNECTIVITY PLAN
(Transportation Dept.)
Council Minutes 5 10/27/2025
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 State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Section 15378(b);
(2) Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager or their designee to execute agreements with Caltrans to receive grant funding for the Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant (STPG), and execute any subsequent agreements regarding this grant award (Resolution No. 10158); and
(3) Amend the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budget to recognize and appropriate $442,650 in STPG Program grant funds and transfer $57,350 in local match funds from the FY 2026 Department of Transportation General Fund Operating Budget to the Rose Bowl Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Study Project. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-15)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO

ENTER INTO A CONTRACT AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS

ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION

AUTHORITY (METRO) TO ACCEPT METRO ACTIVE

TRANSPORT, TRANSIT, AND FIRST/LAST MILE PROGRAM
CYCLE 2 (MAT) FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $7,171,250 FOR

THE PASADENA ROSE BOWL MULTIMODAL OLYMPIC ROUTE
(Transportation Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is exempt from 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 Manager or their designee to enter into an agreement with Metro to receive grant funding for the MAT grant in the amount of $7,171,250 and execute any subsequent agreements regarding this grant award (Contract No. 33441); and
(3) Amend the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budget to appropriate $7,171,250 in MAT Program grant funds to the Mobility Hubs and First/Last Mile Improvements project. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-16)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING

THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE CERTIFICATIONS AND

ASSURANCES AND AUTHORIZED AGENT FORMS REQUIRED

TO SUBMIT A LOW CARBON TRANSIT OPERATIONS

PROGRAM GRANT APPLICATION TO CALIFORNIA

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND APPROPRIATE
$136,786 TO THE BUS STOP IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM CIP
PROJECT (Transportation Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section Council Minutes 6 10/27/2025
City Council

RESIGNATIONS,

APPOINTMENTS, &

REAPPOINTMENTS
City Clerk/ Secretary

MINUTES APPROVED

CLAIMS RECEIVED AND
FILED
MOTION:

OLD BUSINESS
21065 ofCEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required;
(2) Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the Certifications and Assurances and Authorized Agent Forms required to submit a Low Carbon Transit Operations Program grant application to the California Department of Transportation (Resolution No. 10159); and
(3) Amend the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Program to appropriate $136,786 in Low Carbon Transit Operation Program funds to the Bus Stop Improvement Program project. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-17)
ITEM NO. 8 PULLED

APPOINTMENT OF DAVID STEIMAN TO THE PASADENA
COMMUNITY ACCESS CORPORATION BOARD (Pasadena City
College Nomination)
October 3, 2022
March 17, 2025
September 29, 2025
September 29, 2025
457 Deferred Compensation Plan Trustees
Pasadena Public Financing Authority
City Council
Successor Agency to the Pasadena
Community Development Commission
Claim No. Claimant
2026-0097 John Oden
2026-0098 Senior Classic Leasing
2026-0099 Terry Zoller Cross
2026-0100 Sean Elliott Gurevich
2026-0101 Gary Eliahu Gurevich
2026-0102 LanaGurevich
Claim Amount
$ 35,000.00+
7,764.86
500.00
35,000.00+
35,000.00+
35,000.00+
It was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by
Councilmember Hampton, to approve all items on the Consent Calendar.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None

CONSIDERATION OF FINAL REPORT AND

RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE COMMITTEE ON CITY

COUNCILMEMBERS' COMPENSATION REGARDING
Council Minutes 7 10/27/2025
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COMPENSATION, ALLOWANCES, AND BENEFITS FOR THE

MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
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) Consider Final Report and Recommendations of the Committee on City Councilmembers' Compensation, regarding the following increases to City Council compensation:
(a) Establish an annual Family Care Reimbursable Allowance in the amount of $18,000 for each Councilmember and the Mayor;
(b) Establish a per term Office Setup, Operations and Security Reimbursable Allowance in the amount of $20,000 for each Councilmember and the Mayor;
(c) Increase the annual General Expense Reimbursable
Allowance for Councilmember from $3,600 to $6,000, and for the Mayor from $6,000 to $11,000, without restricting use for another category of expense; and
(d) Increase the annual stipend for each Councilmember from $23,292 to $36,000 and for the Mayor from $34,932 to $54,000; and
(3) Direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance within 60 days to incorporate adjustments to the compensation paid to each Councilmember and the Mayor by amounts not-to-exceed the recommendations of the Committee, subject to approval by not less than 2/3 majority vote of the City Council.

Alex Souto, Deputy City Manager, and City Clerk Jomsky provided introductory remarks on the item, noting that the work and Final Report of the Committee was accepted by the City Council on September 29, 2025 prior to the October 1st deadline, and the information presented tonight is intended to facilitate a substantive discussion by the City Council, or for referral of the matter to an ad hoc committee or Council Committee.

Rita Moreno, Chair of the Committee on City Councilmembers' Compensation ("Committee"), provided a brief overview of the work of the Committee, highlighting the value framework, key discussion points, and recommendations on compensation, including stipend amounts and allowance categories. She also emphasized that the Committee's recommendations are part of an effort to balance the need for fair compensation and support for members of the City Council, while also preserving the City's proud history of volunteerism and public service. Deputy City Manager Souto presented a Powerpoint presentation providing historical context of prior Compensation Committees in 1999 and 2001, the guiding principles of the 2025 Committee's discussion, review of expense Council Minutes 8 10/27/2025
categories, comparable compensation from other agencies, and the Committee's final compensation recommendations.

In response to Councilmember Masuda's inquiry regarding the Committee's recommendation for a safety and security allowance, Chair Moreno clarified that the security allowance would provide each Councilmember the flexibility to choose security measures that fit their needs, such as home security installation or having security present at community events, etc. City Clerk Jomsky added that the City Council would work in consultation with the Pasadena Police Department to identify appropriate security measures for specific concerns.

In response to Vice Mayor Rivas' inquiry regarding the family care reimbursable allowance amount, Chair Moreno and Deputy City Manager Souto reported that $7,500 of the recommended
reimbursable allowance can be funded through the City's flexible spending account on a pre-tax basis, and the excess can be offered to Councilmembers as taxable income.

In response to Councilmember Lyon's inquiry regarding the fiscal impact on this year's budget, Deputy City Manager Souto responded that if the Committee's recommendations were to be implemented this fiscal year, a budget amendment would be necessary and City Council approval would be required. Councilmember Lyon pointed to current fiscal challenges posed by the federal administration, and expressed his support for delaying implementation of the Committee's recommendations until the next fiscal year, effective July 1,2026.

In response to Councilmember Madison's inquiry regarding accountability and the ethical guardrails for using public funds for new categories of home security and office setup, Deputy City Manager Souto reported that it is possible for the questions and guidelines for accountability to be addressed and refined prior to implementation. He noted that the reimbursement process for Councilmembers would be identical to the current process. City Attorney Bagneris added that the City Council can also create reimbursement guidelines, regulations, and policies to be followed, which can define specific items to be permissible for reimbursement as reasonable expenses associated with the elected office and in the conduct of public service.

Mayor Gordo advocated for clear guidelines and regulations, with City staff to provide oversight and hold the City Council accountable for use of the proposed allowances and reimbursements. Vice Mayor Rivas echoed similar sentiments and advocated for the City Council to formally establish permissible reimbursement guidelines (by policy document or resolution) to assist City staff's oversight role.

Council Minutes 9 10/27/2025
In response to Councilmember Madison's inquiry regarding whether the Committee reviewed a broader cafeteria style compensation package to accommodate those who may have needs other than childcare or family care, Chair Moreno and Deputy City Manager Souto reported that the General Expense Allowance bucket may serve as an alternative catch-all expense category, such as if a Councilmember needed an uber to get to a City Council meeting.

In response to Councilmember Madison's inquiry regarding if childcare reimbursement is offered to City staff who work evenings or on weekends, Deputy City Manager Souto reported that the City provides a voluntary pre-tax flexible spending account (FSA) program that City staff can enroll in and contribute via payroll deduction (using their own money) for childcare reimbursement. He clarified that the program administrator reviews submissions and provides reimbursements based on Federal guidelines.

Councilmember Madison expressed concerns regarding discussions of personal security detail paid by the City for Councilmembers, and potential liabilities that may arise. He stated his strong preference that the Pasadena Police Department (PPD) continue to be responsible for safety and security of the City, as well as the City Council, and to issue a chargeback to the Councilmember's budget if additional personal security is requested from PPD. Bill Grisafe, Police Commander, stated that the City does not have a dignitary protection division within PPD, and the impact of providing a personal security detail may pose staffing and budget challenges for the Department. He did confirm that PPD conducts needs
assessments for security based on credible threats, and as does maintain safety and security as part of its operational mission.

Following discussion, Councilmember Madison advocated that the proposed safety and security allowance be limited solely for home security systems, and emphasized the need for accountability of City funds in terms of security systems purchased by Councilmembers.

Councilmember Madison raised concerns about potential restrictions on using Councilmember reimbursements to support District Liaisons, emphasizing the importance of maintaining this practice to aid their work. In response, Chair Moreno and City Clerk Jomsky explained that the Committee's recommendation was intended to address Councilmember concerns regarding computer equipment purchases. The Committee's goal was to ensure that District Liaisons, as City employees, receive technology support and resources directly from the City, without drawing on Councilmember allowances. They further clarified that the recommendation was not meant to impose limitations, and Councilmembers may continue to use their reimbursements to provide additional support to District Liaisons when necessary.

Council Minutes 10 10/27/2025
MOTION:

Vice Mayor Rivas suggested implementing the Committee's recommendations starting in December 2026 as the new City Council terms take effect, which would also allow City staff sufficient time to establish guidelines and regulations. Councilmember Lyon expressed support for implementing the recommendations to be effective January 1, 2027 to align with other administrative tasks such as open enrollment, and the calendar year. Mayor Gordo advocated to implement the family care and security allowances sooner than January 1, 2027, emphasizing that these measures are of greater immediate need.

Vice Mayor Rivas expressed apprehension with the family care allowance being double the amount allowed for City staff to contribute to their flexible spending accounts. She advocated for the family care allowance to remain at $7,500 for the time being, and possibly consider gradual increases in the future. She also echoed Councilmember Madison's sentiments regarding personal security, and advocated for that reimbursement to be limited to home security systems.

Councilmember Cole suggested implementing the Committee's recommendations on July 1, 2026 at the start of the next fiscal year, expressed support for reducing the family care allowance to $7,500, and advocated to set a deadline for City staff to return with parameters and guidelines for the allowances.

Discussion ensued regarding the allowance categories and appropriate timing to implement the Committee's recommendations.

Councilmember Cole suggested that Family Care Reimbursable Allowance Office Setup, Operations and Security Reimbursable Allowance, and the General Expense Reimbursable Allowance to be made effective starting the next fiscal year on July 1, 2026, and for the annual compensation stipend increase to be made effective on January 1,2027,after the new City Council is seated.

Yadi, Pasadena resident, thanked the Committee on City
Councilmembers' Compensation for their thoughtful
considerations on compensation and addressing the questions and concerns raised by the City Councilmembers.

Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Lyon, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to approve the Committee's recommendation, amended to limit allowable security expenses to home security systems, and to set the Family Care Reimbursable Allowance, Office Setup, Operations and Security Reimbursable Allowance, and the General Expense Reimbursable Allowance to be effective on July 1, 2026,and to set the annual compensation stipend increase to be effective on January 1,2027.

Council Minutes 11 10/27/2025

PUBLIC HEARING
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Councilmember Madison
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Lyon,

TRAFFIC REDUCTION AND

IMPROVEMENT FEE UPDATE

RECOMMENDED

TRANSPORTATION
(Transportation Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the actions proposed in the agenda report are statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Tolls, Fares, and Charges);
(2) Open the public hearing on the recommended Traffic Reduction and Transportation Improvement Fee update;
(3) Close the public hearing on the recommended Traffic Reduction and Transportation Improvement Fee update; and
(4) After conducting a public hearing on October 27, 2025, conduct first reading on an Ordinance Amending Title 4, Chapter 4.19, Sections 4.19.020, 4.19.040, 4.19.050, and 4.19.060, to Update the Traffic Reduction and Transportation Improvement Fee for Existing Land Use Categories and to add New Land Use Categories to the Fee Structure; and adopt the Recommended Traffic Reduction and Transportation Improvement Fee Update in the Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges.

City Council Decision and Need for Public Hearing: Department of Transportation (DOT) staff presented the methodology and findings of the nexus study, as well as staff recommendations to the Municipal Services Committee (MSC) on July 8, 2025. The Committee approved the staff recommendation with an amendment that either no fees be assessed for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) (because the fees imposed would be de minimis) or that staff provide an alternative recommendation to City Council for ADD fees. Staff revised the recommendations accordingly, to exempt ADUs to 900 square feet or less, and to waive the Traffic Reduction and Transportation Improvement Fee (TR/TIF) for ADUs governed by a Housing Agreement. Staff presented the revised recommendations at the City Council meeting on July 14, 2025, and the Council approved the recommendations. California Government Code Section 54954.6 states that before adopting any new or increased general tax assessment, the City Council must conduct at least one public meeting before the public hearing. While the TR/TIF rates are decreasing for most land uses, the TR/TIF rate for one land use (medical office) is increasing compared to the current fee. As such, staff presented the TR/TIF update before the City Council on October 20, 2025. Upon closing the public hearing on October 27, 2025, City Council will formally adopt the TR/TIF update through an ordinance.

The notice of public meeting for this item was published in the Council Minutes 12 10/27/2025
Councilmember Cole left
the meeting at 9:12 p.m.

MOTION:

Councilmember Cole
returned to the meeting at
9:14 p.m.

ORDINANCE - FIRST

READING
Pasadena Press on September 15, September 22, and September 29 of 2025.

Recommendation of the Transportation Advisory Commission:

DOT staff presented the methodology and findings of the nexus study, as well as staff recommendations, to the Transportation Advisory Commission (TAG) on March 27, 2025 and at a special meeting on April 14, 2025. The TAG discussed the addition of the new proposed land use categories and whether this may encourage or discourage the development of certain types of land uses in the City. The TAG approved the following motion: Support the fees as recommended, and urge council to consider if the reallocation of the fee categories may provide better outcomes on future development. (Discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 15) City Clerk Jomsky reported that the public hearing notice was published on September 15, 22, and 29, 2025 in the Pasadena Press and that no correspondence was received by the City Clerk's office for this item.

It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by
Councilmember Lyon, to close the public hearing.

AYES: Councilmembers Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Cole
ABSTAIN: None
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Jones, to approve the staff recommendation.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Conduct first reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
PASADENA AMENDING TITLE 4, CHAPTER 4.19, SECTIONS

4.19.020,4.19.040,4.19.050,4.19.060, TO UPDATE THE TRAFFIC

REDUCTION AND TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT FEE

FOR EXISTING LAND USE CATEGORIES AND TO ADD NEW
LAND USE CATEGORIES TO THE FEE STRUCTURE"
(Discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 12) The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Hampton.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
!
Council Minutes 13 10/27/2025

PUBLIC HEARING
Councilmember Jones
stated a potential conflict
of interest, recused
himself from the item, and
left the meeting at 9:13
p.m.

NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 17 (ZONING CODE) OF THE

PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE AND THE CITY'S SPECIFIC
PLANS FOR PREDEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEWS (PPRs),

DESIGN REVIEW, SIGNS AND AWNINGS, OUTDOOR AND
TEMPORARY USES, ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (ADUs),
PARKING AND TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENTS (TODs),

IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW STATE LEGISLATION, AND OTHER
MISCELLANEOUS UPDATES (Planning Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the Zoning Code and Specific Plan Amendments are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the "Common Sense" exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA; (2) Adopt the Findings for the Zoning Code and Specific Plan Amendments in Attachment A of the agenda report;
(3) Approve the Zoning Code and Specific Plan Amendments as outlined in the agenda report and in Attachment B of the agenda report;and
(4) Direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance for the Zoning Code and Specific Plan Amendments within 120 days consistent with the provisions set forth in the agenda report and in Attachment B of the agenda report.

Recommendation of the Planning Commission: On August 27, 2025, the Planning Commission voted to recommend the City Council approve the proposed Zoning Code and Specific Plan Amendments as recommended by staff, with the following changes:
(1) Design Review - For new multifamily projects, maintain the existing threshold of 10 units for projects to be reviewed by the Design Commission. Staff supports this recommended change. (2) Parking - For existing buildings that are greater than 50 years old, do not require additional parking for additions necessary to meet building, safety or fire requirements.

Staff supports this recommended change.

Recommendations of the Economic Development &
Technology Committee and Design Commission: On June 18, 2024, staff presented recommended changes to the
Predevelopment Plan Review (PPR) Section to the Economic Development and Technology Committee. On December 10, 2024, staff presented the recommended changes to the Design Review Section to the Design Commission. Both were supportive of the proposed changes.

Council Minutes 14 10/27/2025
MOTION:

MOTION:

REPORTS AND

COMMENTS FROM

COUNCIL COMMITTEES
Municipal Services
Committee
Councilmember Jones
returned to the meeting at
9:17 p.m.

City Clerk Jomsky reported that the public hearing notice was published on October 13, 20, and 23, 2025 in the Pasadena Press and that no correspondence was received by the City Clerk's office for this item.

Jennifer Paige, Planning Director, provided introductory remarks on the item. Jason Mikaelian, Deputy Planning Director, provided a brief Powerpoint presentation on the item, noting the list of Zoning Code and Specific Plan amendments.

It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Lyon, to close the public hearing.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Jones
ABSTAIN: None
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to approve the staff recommendation.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Jones
ABSTAIN: None

ADOPTION OF THE FOCUSED LOCAL ROADWAY SAFETY

ACTION PLAN AND A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A CITY

GOAL OF ZERO TRAFFIC FATALITIES AND A REDUCTION IN

SERIOUS INJURIES RESULTING FROM TRAFFIC COLLISIONS
BY THE YEAR 2035 (Transportation 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 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 the Final Draft Pasadena Local Roadway Safety Action Plan (LRSAP) as a final document that prioritizes transportation safety projects and identifies a subset of City roadways as Safety Corridors; and
(3) Adopt a resolution establishing a City goal for zero traffic fatalities and a reduction in serious injuries resulting from traffic collisions by 2035. (Resolution No. 10160)
Recommendation of the Transportation Advisory Commission:

Department of Transportation (DOT) staff presented the Final Draft Local Roadway Safety Action Plan (LRSAP) to the Transportation Advisory Commission (TAC) on September 25, 2025. Following a Council Minutes 15 10/27/2025
MOTION:
discussion of the plan, TAG unanimously supported the LRSAP, supported the establishment of a goal to eliminate traffic fatalities and reduce serious injuries within the City by 2035 and recommended adoption of the LRSAP by City Council.

Recommendation of the Municipal Services Committee: City staff presented the Final Draft LRSAP to the Municipal Services Committee (MSC) on October 14, 2025. Committee members
expressed concerns about the LRSAP setting project prioritization framework Citywide. While the LRSAP priority projects are prioritized based on the selection criteria established for SS4A and other similar state and regional program priorities, the LRSAP priority list does not encompass all safety-related projects that are citywide priorities for which other funding sources could be pursued. As a result, the committee recommended the report title be changed from LRSAP to Focused LRSAP to reflect the purpose of the grant-specific requirements and not replace other City transportation safety priorities, such as the Capital Improvement Program. Additionally, committee members recommended an extension of the project limits of previously adopted projects on Washington Boulevard to include the full extent of the corridor. A motion supporting the staff recommendation with the modifications identified above was approved by the committee. These recommended changes are reflected in the Focused LRSAP.

Joaquin Siques, Transportation Director, provided a brief overview of the item.

Jeff Cyrulewski, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns
regarding the rushed process for the proposed plan and
advocated for increased community input.

Councilmember Lyon thanked City staff for addressing his safety related concerns in the Central District during the review of the initial draft.

Councilmember Cole advocated for a robust citywide discussion on balancing the needs and competing interests of neighborhoods, motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, etc.

Following brief discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by Councilmember Cole, to approve the staff
recommendation.

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Council Minutes 16 10/27/2025

ORDINANCES - FIRST

READING
Conduct first reading of "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 (ORGANIZATION AND
ADMINISTRATION), CHAPTER 2.05 (CITY COUNCIL) OF THE

PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING COUNCIL
COMMITTEES"
Councilmember Jones noted the difficulty in attending meetings in the late afternoon, and expressed concerns with scheduling other legislative body meetings after Council Committee meetings. He advocated for the City Council Chamber schedule to prioritize Council Committee meetings, and requested that the City Clerk's Office look into clearing the schedule so that Council Committee meetings would start no earlier than 5:00 p.m. City Clerk Jomsky noted that some Committees might need or prefer to start earlier (i.e., Finance Committee meetings occur at 3:30 p.m. prior to City Council), and that such changes should occur on a Committee by Committee basis.

Councilmember Madison advocated for a Council Chamber policy that would limit its use to City Council and Council Committee meetings, suggesting that staff look to identify other appropriate meeting locations for commissions and advisory bodies.

The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Lyon:

CODE TO DEFINE ELECTRIC BICYCLES, REMOVE

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS, AND UPDATE RIDING
REGULATIONS"
The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Jones:

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Council Minutes 17 10/27/2025
n

ORDINANCE-SECOND

READING

PUBLIC COMMENT ON

MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA (cont.)
Adopt "AN INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
PASADENA EXTENDING ORDINANCE NO. 7455 PROHIBITING

URBAN LOT SPLITS AND CONSTRUCTION OF MULTIPLE
DWELLINGS PURSUANT TO SENATE BILL 9 IN VERY HIGH

FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES WITHIN THE BOUNDARY OF
THE EATON FIRE" (Ordinance No. 7457)
The ordinance above was adopted by the following vote:

AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Vice Mayor Rivas
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Sandy Annala, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding the limitation on public comment for multiple agenda items and the lack of reporting out on closed session item outcomes.

BRIEF REPORTS FROM

REPRESENTATIVES/

REQUESTS FOR

FUTURE AGENDA
ITEMS
Councilmember Jones urged the City to partner with local non-profit organizations and food pantries to provide additional support to individuals and families that may be affected by the suspension of SNAP benefits during the federal government shutdown. Mayor Gordo agreed, encouraging City staff to explore strategies to lessen the shutdown's impact on residents. Councilmember Jones further recommended proactive planning to reduce potential disruptions to Section 8 housing should the shutdown continue.

On/'or^er of the Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adj6urn|ed at 9:52 p.m. in memory ofWendell Harmon and his family.

LA M
Victor M. Gordo, Mayorj
City of Pasadena

ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST:

A/-
City^lerk/
Council Minutes 18 10/27/2025

Pasadena City CouncilOctober 27, 2025

Pasadena City Council
October 27, 2025