n
OPENING:
CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Gordo stated a
potential conflict of
interest, recused himself
from Closed Session Item
A, and left the meeting at
5:11 p.m.
Mayor Gordo returned to
the meeting at 5:29 p.m.
Councilmember Madison
arrived at 5:42 p.m.
CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
February 9, 2026-5:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chamber
Mayor Gordo called the regular meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. (Absent: Councilmember Madison)
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting recessed at 5:08 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: Sustaita v. City of Pasadena
LASC Case No. 22STCV11885
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding pending litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of Case: Yoyines v. City of Pasadena
LASC Case No. 22STCV11933
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding pending litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of Case: City of Pasadena v. The Regents of the
University of California
LASC Case No. 25STCV31621
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8) Property Address: 600 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA
Agency negotiator: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating parties: State of California, Department of Transportation
Under negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Property Addresses:
1. 721 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
2. 275 Arlington Drive, Pasadena, CA
Agency negotiator: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating parties: State of California, Department of Transportation
Under negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
Council Minutes102/09/2026
r'
ROLL CALL:
Councilmembers:
Staff:
J
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Property Addresses:
1. 866 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
2. 1150 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
3.1151 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
4. 235 Bellefontaine Street, Pasadena, CA
5. 165 Hurlbut Street, Pasadena, CA
6. 925 Jane Place, Pasadena, CA
7. 225 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, CA
8. 230 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, CA
9. 929 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
10. 1030 Pasadena Avenue, Pasadena, CA
11. 602 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA
12. 726 St. John Avenue, Pasadena, CA
13. 215 Wigmore Drive, Pasadena, CA
Agency negotiator: Miguel Marquez
Negotiating parties: State of California, Department of Transportation
Under negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
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
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 two items above were not discussed.
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting reconvened at 6:30 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was led by Councilmember Cole.
Mayor Victor M. Gordo
Vice Mayor Jessica Rivas
Councilmember Rick Cole
Councilmember Tyron 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
Council Minutes202/09/2026
n
CEREMONIAL MATTERS
PUBLIC COMMENT ON
MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
City Clerk Jomsky administered the Oath of Office to Dr. Louisa Ortega, as the mayoral nominee to serve as a Commissioner on the Commission of the Status of Women.
The following individuals spoke on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and/or advocated for the City to divest from specific companies:
Kate E., Pasadena resident
Sue Park-Hur, Pasadena resident
Randall Heyn-Lamb, Pasadena resident
Levent Akbarut, Pasadena resident
Avraham, Pomona resident
Les Hammer, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns related to recent protests against federal immigration activists.
The following individuals advocated for the City to implement code enforcement on Caltrans properties and/or acquire properties from Caltrans:
Christopher Sutton, United Caltrans Tenants
Kelly Brinkman, Pasadena resident
Alejandro Perez, representing Open Arms Living, stated that the organization has been operating a community engagement
campaign in the City and requested to share the results with Housing, Homelessness, and Planning Committee.
The following individuals provided comments expressing concerns regarding to the demolition of large healthy trees and green canopy in the Arroyo:
Barbara Lamprecht, Pasadena resident
Dennis Haupt, Pasadena resident
Kenneth Compton, residence not stated
Margarita Holloman, Pasadena resident, urged the City to audit and conduct an inspection of services and funds utilized by Union Station Homeless Sen/ices.
In response to Vice Mayor Rivas' inquiry regarding the Legislative Policy Committee's recommendation to the full City Council on updating the City's Environmental, Social, and Governance Investment policy, Matt Hawkesworth, Assistant City Manager reported that the City conducts one investment policy update per year, which is expected to be presented to the City Council along with the annual update in June or July 2026. Mayor Gordo reported that he will work with City staff to have the matter agendized sooner.
Council Minutes302/09/2026
CONSENT CALENDAR
City Manager/ Executive
Director
In response to public comment, Councilmember Hampton requested copies of the audits of agreements with certain organizations that the City provides funds. He also stated his position that when the City conducts investigations into allegations against City employees for misconduct, such employees should not be placed on paid leave. He also requested an update from the Police Department relating to the No Secret Police Act and proper identification of law enforcement officials.
ADOPT A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THREE NEW
CLASSIFICATIONS AND UPDATING THE SALARIES OF
ELEVEN EXISTING CLASSIFICATIONS REPRESENTED BY
PMA, AFSCME, AND NON-REPRESENTED MANAGEMENT
(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 Public Resources Code ("PRC") Section 21065 and within the meaning of California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") Guidelines Section15378(b); and
(2) Adopt a Resolution establishing three new classifications and updating the salaries of eleven existing classifications represented by PMA, AFSCME, and Non-Represented Management. (Resolution No.10175)
APPROVE FINAL TRACT MAP NO. 084064 FOR CREATION OF
SIX AIR PARCELS FOR RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM
PURPOSES AT 1645 NORTH LAKE AVENUE (Public Works Dept.) Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the Final Map is not a project under Section 15268(b)(3) of the State California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines as a ministerial action, and if it is a project, it is exempt from CEQA under the "Common Sense" exemption pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) on the grounds that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility the approval of the letter of credit, contract and Final Map may have a significant effect on the environment, and that the project was previously determined Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (Section 15303(b), Class 3, New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures), and that no further CEQA approvals are required for the final tract map;
(2) Approve and enter Subdivision Contract with JESF, LLC, and authorize the City Manager to execute the Contract;
(3) Approve and accept a letter of credit in the amount of $65,134.50 as a security guarantee that all public improvements work as conditioned upon the developer will be satisfactorily completed in accordance with Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter
16.36.040;
(4) Adopt a resolution to approve Final Tract Map No. 084064 for the creation of six air parcels for residential condominium purposes Council Minutes402/09/2026
n
Item discussed separately
Advisory Bodies
and one air parcel for commercial condominium purposes
(Resolution No. 10176); and
(5) Authorize the City Clerk to execute the Certificate on the Tract Map showing the City's approval of said Map.
Recommendation of the Hearing Officer: Final Tract Map No. 084064 (Attachment A of the agenda report), for the creation of six air parcels for residential condominium purposes and one air parcel for commercial condominium purposes, was reviewed and approved in tentative form by the Subdivision Hearing Officer on August 2, 2023. The exercise of the right granted must be commenced within three years, or by August 2, 2026. The applicant submitted the final map to the City for review in April 2024.
APPROVAL OF TRANSFER AND ASSIGNMENT OF NON-
EXCLUSIVE SOLID WASTE FRANCHISE FROM ROBERT M.
ARSENIAN DBA SOUTHLAND DISPOSAL COMPANY TO
SOUTHLAND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC. (Public Works
Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended action is categorically 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; and
(2) Direct the City Attorney to draft an amendment to Ordinance No. 7396 that approves the transfer and assignment of the non- exclusive solid waste franchise from Robert M. Arsenian dba Southland Disposal Company (Southland Disposal) to Southland Environmental Services, Inc., for the term beginning immediately upon execution of the agreement through June 30, 2026, with one additional one-year renewal terms at the sole discretion of the City Manager. Southland Environmental Services, Inc., has no vested or contract right in the additional one-year renewal term.
FINANCE COMMITTEE: APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO FISCAL
YEAR 2026 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (Public Works
Dept.)
MAKE DISPLACEMENT EVENT FINDINGS FOR TWO LIVE
NATION CONCERTS WHICH ARE PART OF AN UP TO SIX
CONCERT SERIES TAKING PLACE IN APRIL OR MAY 2027
(FISCAL YEAR 2027) (RBOC)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Acknowledge that the RBOC Board of Directors found that the license agreement proposed in the agenda report is categorically exempt under California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15323 (Normal Operations of Facilities for Public Gatherings), there are no features that distinguish these projects from others in this exempt class, and therefore there are no unusual circumstances present; and
Council Minutes502/09/2026
n
City Clerk/ Secretary
CLAIMS RECEIVED AND
FILED
MOTION:
CONSENT ITEMS
DISCUSSED
SEPARATELY
(2) Make the findings set forth in the agenda report and required by PMC Section 3.32.270.Ato host displacement event numbers 26 and 27 for Fiscal Year 2027 (July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027).
Claim No. Claimant
2026-0186 YufengYang
2026-0187 ElicMahone
2026-0188 CleoN. Watts
2026-0189 1 S. Orange Grove Blvd.
Homeowners Assoc.
2026-0190 Duplicate to Claim No. 2026-0176
2026-0191 Nahum Victoria
2026-0192 Julienne Lousie Davis
2026-0193 Kristin Barrios
2026-0194 Duplicate to Claim No. 2026-0139
2026-0195 Mario Rene Venture
2026-0196 Araceli Ruano
Claim Amount
$ 88,554.52
7,700.00
Not stated
4,475.00
N/A
500.00
10,000.00+
384.69
N/A
4,800.00
1,030.00
It was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by
Councilmember Jones, to approve all items on the Consent Calendar, with the exception of Item 4. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO FISCAL
YEAR 2026 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT 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), Public Resources Code Section 21065 and Section 15378(b)(4) and (5) of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, are not subject to environmental review; and
(2) Approve amendments to the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) Budget as detailed in Attachment A of the agenda report. (Budget Amendment No. 2026-26)
The following individuals advocated for the Capital Improvement Program budget to include more projects implementing solar energy on municipal properties to reach the carbon free goals set in City Council Resolution No. 9977:
Genette Foster, Pasadena resident
Sandy Krasner, Altadena resident
Councilmember Jones requested that the City circulate the locations of pedestrian crossing projects and the CDBG funds that are used for each project.
Council Minutes602/09/2026
n
MOTION:
REPORTS AND
COMMENTS FROM
COUNCIL COMMITTEES
Legislative Policy
Committee
In response to Mayor Gordo's inquiry regarding the local solar incentives to replace the loss of the federal incentives, Councilmembers Cole and Jones reported that the matter will be discussed at a future Municipal Services Committee meeting.
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
APPROVAL OF THE FEDERAL & STATE LEGISLATIVE
PLATFORMS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2026 (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)(3) as CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment; and (2) Approve the Federal Legislative Platform and the State Legislative Platform for calendar year 2026.
In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding the replenishment of the Raymond Basin, Jennifer Guess Mayo, Assistant General Manager of Water and Power, stated that City staff can add specific language to the legislative platform for the Raymond Basin.
Councilmember Lyon noted his preference for alternative language to be used in the proposed legislative platforms. He advocated to change the term "federal assistance" to "federal funding" or "federal investment" to more accurately reflect the utilization of taxpayer monies, and to change "local control" to "local decision-making authority" or "authority of local agencies" throughout the statement and other legislative letters issued by the City. He also asked that the platform include provisions seeking support for the renewal of federal incentives for solar energy and electric vehicles, which were recently stricken by the federal government. In terms of the State platform, he suggested adding language to reflect collaboration between the City and the state.
Mayor Gordo expressed support for amending the term "local control" to better reflect preservation of the City's authority to govern itself under the City Charter.
Councilmember Cole advocated for the Legislative Policy Committee to review the verbiage pertaining to utilities to emphasize the urgency to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Council Minutes702/09/2026
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Mayor Gordo expressed concerns with the State determining standard housing density and planning requirements for cities without taking into consideration the variances between different cities and regional surroundings.
Sandy Krasner, Altadena resident, questioned the purpose of the legislative platforms, and advocated for increased
incentives for solar and storage technologies.
Teri Stein, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding the use of Flock Cameras, surveillance, and data sharing to assist in federal immigration enforcement, and advocated for a surveillance policy as part of the legislative platform.
Yadi, Pasadena resident, expressed opposition to the use of automated speed cameras and urged the City to work with the state to address the home insurance crisis.
The following individuals advocated for the City to work with the State on Zone Zero legislation and maintaining vegetation for wildfire safety:
Sandy Greenstein, Pasadena resident
Jessica Richards, Pasadena resident
Rebecca Rea, Pasadena resident
Tim Martinez, Pasadena resident
In response to public comment, Councilmember Madison reported that the City does have legislative advocates in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., that work with the City Council and City staff to establish a legislative platform that serves as a blueprint for City positions as legislation is introduced and considered.
In response to public comment, Vice Mayor Rivas clarified that specificity and recommendations for the matter regarding Zone Zero was not a part of the state legislative platform since it was only recently discussed by the Legislative Policy Committee.
Councilmember Hampton and Mayor Gordo suggested that
recommendations for Zone Zero and preserving the City's authority be included in the state legislative platform. Chad Augustin, Fire Chief, reported that currently, no fire chiefs in the state have made a formal recommendation on the matter. However, the City may sign a formal advocacy letter highlighting the impacts of Zone Zero legislation. Councilmember Madison added that state regulators are conducting additional outreach and that Fire Chief Augustin is monitoring the legislation for recommended actions.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that four letters of correspondence were received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
Council Minutes802/09/2026
MOTION:
n
It was moved by Councilmember Madison, seconded by Cole, to approve the staff recommendation, with the following amendments:
1) change the term "federal assistance" to "federal funding" or "federal investment", 2) change the term "local control" to "local decision-making authority", to reflect preservation of local authority and autonomy, 3) include supportive language for renewing federal incentives for solar energy and electric vehicles, 4) include specific language for replenishing the Raymond Basin, and 5) re-examine the language on the federal and state utility platforms to be more consistent with the City Council adopted Resolution No. 9977 and the City's commitment to 100% renewable energy, and with direction to City staff to provide the Municipal Services Committee with an update on the status of the Raymond Basin. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
Councilmember Hampton also requested that City staff return to the City Council with proposed advocacy letters for the Zone Zero matter and the statewide insurance emergency.
AMENDMENTS TO PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 2,
ARTICLES III AND IV TO UPDATE PROVISIONS REGARDING
TERM LIMITS AND TRAINING OF MEMBERS OF ADVISORY
BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES AND BOARDS OF
OPERATING COMPANIES CREATED BY CITY COUNCIL (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) Conduct first reading of "An Ordinance Amending Pasadena Municipal Code Title 2, Articles III and IV to update provisions regarding term limits and training of members of Advisory Boards, Commissions, Committees, and Boards of Operating Companies created by City Council."
(Discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 11, including for public comment purposes.)
Alex Hernandez, Assistant to the City Manager, presented a Powerpoint presentation on the item, noting proposed changes to commission term limits, extended terms, term limits for operating companies, and training for commissioners and board members.
Councilmember Hampton advocated for the time allotment for completion of training to be 90 days instead of the proposed 180 days. He expressed support for having all commission and board member terms be set at 3 years, with the ability to be reappointed to the same commission/board for an additional 3-year term in the future.
Council Minutes902/09/2026
Councilmember Lyon expressed support for the 90-day training period and advocated for on-going training to increase the effectiveness of commissioners and board members. He expressed opposition to the idea of an extended term and suggested having term limits parallel to the City Council's term limits.
Councilmember Cole agreed with effectiveness training for commissioners and suggested amending Page 12, Section 27, Item C of the proposed ordinance to state, "Members shall be required to undertake training provided by city staff on the Brown Act, conflict of interest laws, and other appropriate meeting and governance subjects to promote individual and overall commission effectiveness, pursuant to Section 2.45.055."
Vice Mayor Rivas reported that the Legislative Policy Committee proposed extended terms after discussing the difficulties of identifying individuals with specific skillsets to appoint to operating company boards.
Councilmember Masuda expressed support for term limits while also noting the complexities of appointing the right individual to serve on operating company boards.
In response to Councilmember Madison's inquiry regarding new Councilmembers and new commission/board appointees, Assistant to the City Manager Hernandez confirmed that there are no proposed changes to how a newly elected Councilmember
addresses their appointees. City Clerk Jomsky reported that a newly elected Councilmember has 90 days from the date they take office to announce whether they will act to vacate any commission/board seat(s) that are nominated to represent the district. Councilmember Madison advocated for City staff to clarify whether the ordinance applies to re-elected councilmembers.
Discussion ensued regarding the complexities of the City's operating company boards, narrow constituencies that can be appointed to certain boards or commissions, and difficulties of creating consistent term limits for boards and commissions.
Councilmember Lyon stated his preference to establish a maximum of three 4-year terms for members of the operating companies, a maximum of three 3-year terms for other commissions, no term limits for the parking commissions associated with the bids, training to be completed within 90 days, and allowing any commissioner to remain for 180 days after their term expires. Councilmember Cole expressed support for the motion and suggested making the 180- extension effective July 1, 2026 to allow current commissioners some additional time to serve.
Council Minutes1002/09/2026
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MOTION:
Mayor Gordo expressed concerns regarding exemptions and advocated to exempt specific legislative bodies from term limits, such as the Pasadena Center Operating Company Board and the Rose Bowl Operating Company Board, due to their specialization of market conditions, stadiums, operations, etc.
Councilmember Hampton advocated for the term limits to be 3-year terms for all commissions/board members.
Councilmember Lyon expressed support for exempting business- specific nominee seats, such as hotel seats and parking district seats, from the proposed term limits. City Attorney Bagneris reported that City staff can review what other specific seats may be applicable and return to the City Council with an updated recommendation on exemptions.
Councilmember Madison expressed concerns that the proposed term limits are not parallel to that of the City Council's term limits.
Councilmember Rivas emphasized the importance of having fair and equitable term limits for all boards and commissions and expressed support for 4-year terms.
Councilmember Lyon amended his position to have three 4-year terms for operating companies, three 3-year terms for all other commissions and boards, with the exception of the industry-specific seats on certain commissions/boards, as well as the business improvement district parking commissions to have no term limits, training to be completed within 90 days, and allowing any commissioner to remain for 180 days after their term expires.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Lyon, seconded by Councilmember Cole, to approve the staff
recommendation as amended, establishing a three 4-year term for operating companies, three 3-year term for all other commissions, with the exception of the industry-specific seats on certain commissions and bid parking commissions to have no term limits, training to be completed within 90 days, and allowing any commissioner to remain for 180 days after their term expires (effective July 1,2026).
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Vice Mayor Rivas NOES: Councilmembers Hampton, Madison, Masuda, Mayor
Gordo
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
MOTION FAILED.
Council Minutes1102/09/2026
SUBSTITUTE MOTION:
ORDINANCE - FIRST
READING
Item held; to be
considered at a future
meeting
RECOMMENDATIONS
FROM OFFICERS AND
DEPARTMENTS
City Manager
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Lyon, seconded by Vice Mayor Rivas, to approve the staff
recommendation as amended, establishing three 4-year terms for operating companies, three 4-year terms for all other commissions and boards, with the exception of the industry-specific seats on certain commissions/boards and the business improvement district parking commissions to have no term limits, training to be completed within 90 days, and allowing any commissioner to remain for 180 days after their term expires (effective July 1, 2026).
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Madison,
Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: Councilmember Hampton and Mayor Gordo
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
As a result of the approved changes to the ordinance, it was agreed by consensus of the City Council to hold off conducting first reading of the ordinance to allow City staff to incorporate the edits.
Conduct first reading of "AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 2, ARTICLES III AND IV TO
UPDATE PROVISIONS REGARDING TERM LIMITS AND
TRAINING OF MEMBERS OF ADVISORY BOARDS,
COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES AND BOARDS OF OPERATING
COMPANIES CREATED BY CITY COUNCIL"
(Discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 8, including for public comment purposes.)
FINANCE COMMITTEE: JOINT ACTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AND THE PASADENA PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY:
APPROVE THE CERTIFICATES OF PARTICIPATION SERIES
2026A (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 California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as defined in Section 21065 of CEQA and section 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required for the project; and
(2) Adopt a resolution of the City Council of the City of Pasadena approving the execution and delivery of not-to-exceed $39,000,000 aggregate initial principal amount of Refunding Certificates of Participation (COPs), Series 2026A, approving the form and authorizing the execution and delivery of an eight supplemental trust agreement, a supplement No. 7 to lease, a supplement No. 7 to sublease, a continuing disclosure agreement, an escrow agreement and other related documents, authorizing the publication of a notice of intention to sell certificates of participation and a notice of sale, authorizing the distribution of an official statement and approving other related actions in connection therewith. (Resolution No. 10177) Council Minutes1202/09/2026
MOTION:
Recommendation: It is recommended that the Pasadena Public Financing Authority:
(3) 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 an eight supplemental trust agreement, a supplement No. 7 to lease, a supplement No. 7 to sublease, a contract of purchase, and approving other related documents and actions in connection therewith. (PPFA No. 35)
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion
unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO AMEND CONTRACT NO.
33313 WITH PCL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC., TO
INCREASE CONTRACT AMOUNT BY $177,533,815 FOR
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT-RISK PHASE 2
CONSTRUCTION SERVICES FOR THE CENTRAL LIBRARY
SEISMIC RETROFIT AND RENOVATIONS PROJECT FOR A
REVISED TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$186,186,155 (Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended action in the agenda report be categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with Title 14, Chapter 3, Article 19, Section 15301, Class 1 - Existing Facilities, and Section 15302, Class 2 - 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; and
(2) Authorize the City Manager to amend Contract No. 33313 with PCL Construction Services, Inc., as a result of the competitive selection process specified by Section 4.08.136 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, increasing the contract amount by $177,533,815 from $8,652,340 to a total not-to-exceed amount of $186,186,155, which shall not exceed the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), inclusive of all contingencies, for Construction Manager At-Risk (CMAR) Phase 2 construction services necessary to complete the Central Library Seismic Retrofit and Renovations project.
Competitive bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(1) (Contracts utilizing alternative project delivery methods, as approved by the City Council, including, but not limited to, design- build and construction manager at-risk).
Greg de Vinck, Public Works Director, presented a Powerpoint presentation recapping Phase 1 and 1A activities of the Central Library Renovation and Retrofit Project. Brianna Weaver, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager for PCL, presented information on collaborative efforts between PCL and the City conducted throughout Phase 1 of the project, such as local business participation, local procurement, and workforce engagement Council Minutes1302/09/2026
initiatives. Ms. Weaver also reported that Phase 2 will include partnership with Pasadena City College (PCC) and ACE mentors at Pasadena High School, and that 11-12% of PCL's Phase 2 contract is expected to be spent within the local economy, including local supplies, labor, and partners. Public Works Director de Vinck presented information on construction proceedings, guaranteed maximum price, and cost control for Phase 2 of the project.
Councilmember Jones emphasized the Central Library project being an economic opportunity for local businesses and for local residents to gain employment. Ms. Weaver noted that due to the complexities of the project scope of Phase 1, there was limited alignment of the available workforce with the project requirements and job classifications. She noted that PCL will continue to engage with local businesses to seek further collaboration in Phase 2. Eric Hernandez, PCL Senior Superintendent, reported that most of Phase 1 included soft demolition and abatement of materials, which requires specific training that is not largely found among local vendors.
In response to Councilmember Jones' inquiry regarding the structure of bid packages to allow small local firms to compete, Larry Rhodes, pre-construction manager for PCL, reported that the bid packages are structured to include local businesses and that larger bid packages have carve-outs for small and local businesses to work under larger sub-trades. Councilmember Jones advocated to have a full-time City employee assigned to monitor local engagement/ employment efforts, or a task force dedicated to monitoring local hire and local procurement on City projects.
Councilmember Hampton advocated for PCL to present a local hire plan. Mr. Rhodes reported that PCL's budget has incorporated a local business plan that includes working with local suppliers, local workforce hires, and local companies. He shared that PCL's bid package plan outlines how they will meet local business requirements and the forecasted 11-12% contract spend within the community.
Councilmember Madison voiced concern that if the City Council does not approve the item, the resulting two-week delay could impact the forecasted July 31, 2028 project completion date.
Mayor Gordo advocated for the City Council to approve the staff recommendations with direction to City staff and PCL staff to return with information or plan on local hire, local procurement, and contractor policies to be incorporated into the project.
Councilmember Madison and Mayor Gordo expressed concerns regarding the contingency structure that could potentially create unintended incentives to avoid necessary work. Public Works Director de Vinck reported that the contingency is part of the Council Minutes1402/09/2026
MOTION:
negotiated pricing and profit structure, and that the contractor manager at-risk model designates the contractor to absorb overall project risk. He also reported that oversight measures include a clearly defined scope of work, independent inspectors, inspectors from the architect team, and City inspectors.
Councilmember Hampton emphasized that Pasadena has qualified local laborers that are ready for work and should be immediately contacted. In response, Ms. Weaver described PCL's outreach efforts for local hiring such as partnering with Flintridge Center and reaching out to local unions to identify local labor. She also confirmed that PCL events were intentionally organized in partnership with community groups.
Mayor Gordo advocated for the City Council to discuss implementing project labor agreements (PLAs) with a community benefits component.
Ronald Matthews, Pasadena resident, advocated for local participation to be a required outcome of the project.
Councilmember Lyon expressed frustrations regarding the lack of adequate time for the City Council to review, ask questions, and consider additional mandates to the project. He noted that the project has been in development and advocated for City staff to better anticipate scheduling to avoid last-minute decision making.
In response to stated concerns, City Manager Marquez clarified that City staff is not mandating that a vote to take place, but rather presenting the facts related to downstream schedule implications.
Public Works Manager de Vinck added that a two-week delay in issuing the notice to proceed would simply push the project completion date by two weeks.
Mayor Gordo advocated to adjust the project's critical path by two weeks and have City staff return with a full package that incorporates all the elements discussed.
Councilmember Masuda expressed support for adding in the local hire component, however, he also expressed opposition to delaying the project.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to direct City staff and PCL staff to return in two weeks with City staff recommendations for tracking local hiring and local procurement for alt projects in a comprehensive and coordinated way, and PCL's written plan for meeting the 11-12% local economic spending commitment and their plan on local hiring and local procurement.
Council Minutes1502/09/2026
\
ORDINANCE - SECOND
READING
PUBLIC COMMENT ON
MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA CONT'D.
ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Vice
Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: Councilmembers Madison and Masuda
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Adopt "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PASADENA ADDING
CHAPTER 2.10 TO ARTICLE I OF TITLE 2 OF THE PASADENA
MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING THE CITY COUNCIL VACANCY
APPOINTMENT PROCESS WHEN A VACANCY OCCURS IN A
CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT SEAT WITH LESS THAN TWO YEARS
REMAINING ON AN UNEXPIRED TERM" (Ordinance No. 7465)
The ordinance above was adopted by the following vote:
I AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
David Corrales, Pasadena resident, thanked the City Council for listening to residents' concerns regarding the Caltrans homes for sale and urged the City Council to support a memorandum of understanding related to the sales.
On ord^r of the Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adjourned at 10:41 p.m.
'M^L&.
Victor M. Gordo, Mayor
City of Pasadena
City-^lerk'
Council Minutes1602/09/2026