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Letter from League of Women Voters for the Pasadena Area From Cynthia Cannady
Date Thu 3/19/2026 1:28 PM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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Artificial Turf_LWVPA_031926.pdf;
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Please accept the attached letter as correspondence for the 03/24/26 meeting of the Municipal Services Committee. This concerns the artificial turf issue and we don't yet have the agenda number.
For Martha Zavala, Advocacy Director
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LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS'
"ASADENAAREA
Alhambra Altadena Arcadia Bradbury Duarte LaCanada Flintridge Monrovia Monterey Park Pasadena San Gabriel San Marino Sierra Madre South Pasadena March 19, 2026
Pasadena City Council
City Hall
100N.0arfield Avenue
Pasadena, California 91109
Public Information Needed on Environmental and Health Risks of Synthetic Turf Dear Mayor Gordo and Members of the Pasadena City Council, The League of Women Voters of Pasadena Area respectfully urges the Council to ensure that the public has full access to current, science-based information regarding the potential environmental and health risks associated with synthetic (artificial) turf, currently installed and proposed for our city parks, schools, and recreation areas.
As an organization deeply committed to informed public participation and evidence-based decision-making, we believe that community members deserve a clear, transparent understanding of the environmental and health implications of this issue. Information should address at least the following areas of concern:
Health Impacts, Especially for Children
Research continues to raise questions about potential exposure to PFAS, toxic substances, heat- related illness, and injury on artificial surfaces. Children, who spend significant time in close contact with these fields, are particularly vulnerable. It appears that reputable sources disagree on the nature and gravity of the risk, but we should not take chances with our children. At the least, we propose that full disclosure on potential health risks be disclosed and a city-wide information meeting be held before a decision is taken. Parents deserve to know about potential health risks to their children and have an opportunity to express their view before this body takes a decision.
Contribution to Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Synthetic turf is derived primarily from petroleum-based plastics. Its production, transportation, and eventual disposal contribute to greenhouse gas emissions at a time when municipalities are seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Heat Island Effect
Installation of artificial turf is known to increase temperatures in urban areas. Pasadena is already a high heat risk city and Northwest Pasadena is acknowledged to be an "urban heat island" characterized by higher temperatures due to dense development, asphalt, limited tree canopy and historical factors including land use policies.
Waste and End-of-Life Disposal
Artificial turf cannot currently be recycled at scale. Once worn out, typically within a decade or less, it becomes a significant source of non-recyclable waste headed for landfills. Its disposal accounts for major greenhouse gas emissions. What will happen to these plastic materials when children have played on them for years and they need to be replaced? Water Pollution and Environmental Runoff
The breakdown of turf materials and infill releases microplastics and chemicals into surface water and stormwater systems, potentially affecting watershed health and local ecosystems. It ends up in the ocean, which is already polluted with plastic.
The League encourages the City Council to consider all of these risks and decline to authorize installation of artificial turf in public parks.
In any case, in the name of democracy, we urge you to offer and publicize a public forum on the topic, inviting critics and defenders. The public, especially parents of minor children, have a right to know and express their views before a decision is taken.
Thank you for your attention and your commitment to ensuring fully informed public decision- making in Pasadena.
Respectfully,
hv^k^^^f^L.
Martha Zavala
Director of Advocacy
League of Women Voters Pasadena Area
A nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization
65 S. Grand Avenue • Pasadena, CA 91105-1602
T 626-798-0965 • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: lwv-pa.org 3/23/26, 7:41 AMInbox - Gao, Beilei - Outlook
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Comments on 24 March 2026 Municipal Services Committee
From Joan Aarestad
Date Fri 3/20/2026 10:30 AM
To cityclerk <[email protected]>
I 1 attachment (21 KB)
Artificial Turf MSC 24 Mar 2026.pdf;
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Please provide these comments to the Municipal Services Committee. https://outlook.office.com/mail/none/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWgOAcll4tyWJHOuQlnZCPB9nkAAHpE6GEgM?nativeVersio... 1/1 To the Municipal Services Committee:
Re: 24 March 2026 Meeting
Agenda Item 2 Informational Only Artificial Turf
I am the Chair of the SustainabiLity Committee for Pasadena Beautiful Foundation. On past occasions, we have taken the position before the Environmental Advisory Commission that the City of Pasadena should not support the use of artificial turf. We are renewing that position before this Committee.
We would still like the following topics to be reviewed with reference to synthetic turf:
Pros
Cons
Reduces the use of water in maintaining urban landscapes Reduces cost/time/energy of maintaining a living lawn
Allows for more days of use of fields
Smothers complex ecosystems in the soil that foster better environmental health Does not reduce the use of water due to need to cool material Made of plastics that break down into microparticles that cause health problems Artificial turf is not recycled so becomes solid waste in landfills Turf temperatures reach dangerous levels in hot weather which can cause burns Additional costs/expenses due to electronics that require updates and become obsolete prior to the end of the useful life of the turf We had previously asked for staff to provide us with the most recent technological assessments and financial analysis of the expenditures so that you as our elected representatives can make informed decisions. Once these topics are evaluated, we anticipate that artificial turf will be seen as NOT the most cost effective choice. And this does not even take into consideration health risks to vulnerable children.
This is perhaps a seminal moment to see whether our elected officials are truly committed to makingthe City of Pasadena a leader in environmentally appropriate decisions or not.
On a personal note, I am old enough to remember the searing pain I experienced in my lungs as a child playing on grass fields during the dark air quality days of the 1960s. It took massive efforts to improve our air quality so that my children did not experience that pain.
It is ironic that though our air quality is much improved from emissions, we are turning a blind eye to other forms of pollution from micro-plastics that children breathe in from artificial turf.
I hope this Committee has the strength to make the best decision for our community.
Respectfully submitted
Joan E.Aarestad
Chair, Sustainability Committee
Pasadena Beautiful Foundation
3/23/26, 7:27 AMMail - Gao, Beilei - Outlook
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Comment on Artificial Turf Installation
From Ryan Kiir
Date Fri 3/20/2026 4:38 PM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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To the Municipal Services Committee,
My name is Ryan Kim, and I am a sophomore who lives and attends high school in Pasadena. I am deeply concerned by the proposal to replace the natural grass fields at Robinson Park and Villa Parke with artificial turf.
I first learned about the impacts of plastics on human and environmental health in eighth grade, and what I found was alarming. Artificial turf contains chemicals — including PFAS, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heavy metals such as zinc and lead —that are well-documented to cause cancer and hormonal disruption. Beyond chemical exposure, turf surfaces heat to dangerously high temperatures on sunny days; a friend of mine found that his trash can had melted onto his backyard turf after a warm afternoon. And the abrasive surface itself causes friction burns: my brother, who plays soccer, regularly comes home with skinned knees from sliding on artificial turf fields. These are the impacts of installing artificial turf.
Environmentally, the harms are also significant. Turf blades shed microplastics that enter stormwater, flow into the Arroyo Seco, and eventually reach the LA River and the Pacific Ocean, where they harm marine wildlife and accumulate in ecosystems. Beneath the field, turf sterilizes the soil and disrupts the roots, moisture, and microbial life that trees and plants in the surrounding area depend on. And the manufacturing of artificial turf carries a substantial carbon footprint — studies have found that synthetic turf generates several times the lifecycle emissions of natural grass per square meter installed.
For these reasons, I urge the committee to reject the installation of artificial turf at these facilities.
Ryan K. Kirn (he/him)
Polytechnic School
"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind." — Bernard M. Baruch
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Public Comment - MSC Item #2 (March 24, 2026): In Support of Real Grass Fields From Christopher Yeh
Date Fri 3/20/2026 5:30 PM
To cityclerk <[email protected]>; Gao, Beilei <[email protected]> Cc Lyon, Jason <[email protected]>
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Dear Members of the Municipal Services Committee,
As a Pasadena resident, I am writing to express my strong support for the installation and maintenance of natural grass fields over artificial turf in our local parks and athletic facilities.
While I understand the desire for low-maintenance solutions, the long-term environmental, health, and safety costs of synthetic surfaces far outweigh their perceived convenience. I urge the committee to consider the following points:
1. Public Health and Safety
Extreme Heat: Artificial turf can reach temperatures between 140°F and 180°C, creating a significant risk for heat exhaustion and burns. In contrast, natural grass provides cooling through evapotranspiration.
Injury Risk: Studies consistently show higher rates ofACL tears and "turf burns" on synthetic surfaces due to increased friction and surface stiffness compared to the natural "give" of soil and grass. I myself have experienced several turf burns over the years.
Chemical Exposure: Many turf systems use rubber infill from recycled tires, which may contain heavy metals. Our residents should not be exposed to these harmful substances.
2. Environmental Impact
Microplastic Pollution: Turf fields shed plastic fibers and rubber particles that inevitably enter Pasadena's stormwater systems and local waterways.
Ecosystem Services: Unlike synthetic plastic, natural grass absorbs carbon dioxide, produces oxygen, and supports local biodiversity.
Stormwater Management Natural soil acts as a filter and sponge. Replacing it with compacted layers for turf increases urban runoffand heightens local flooding risks. https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWgOA3H%2Bnm4To90yV%2B7YkwvQp7gABNFbtEQM?nati... 1/2 3/23/26, 7:28 AM Mail - Gao, Beilei - Outlook
3. Sustainability and Waste
Artificial turf fields have a short lifespan of 8-10 years and are notoriously difficult to recycle. Most end up in landfills as massive piles of non-biodegradable, petroleum-based waste. By choosing drought- tolerant natural grass suited for our climate, Pasadena can demonstrate a commitment to true environmental stewardship.
I believe Pasadena has the opportunity to lead by example, utilizing modern turf management techniques to maintain high-quality, water-efficient natural fields that protect both our children and our environment.
Thank you for your time and for your dedication to our community's well-being.
Sincerely,
Christopher Yeh
Pasadena Resident, District 6
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Please vote no against plastic fields
From Lissette Rodriguez
Date Fri 3/20/2026 8:02 PM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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Hi,
As a Pasadena resident and homeowner who is concerned about the future of our city, I urge you to vote no against investing any more money into plastic fields. They are harmful to the environment, can pose long term risks to people's health, and are just a bad idea.
Thank you,
Lissette Rodriguez
Pasadena, 91106
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Public Comment-MSC Item #2-Keep it real, Pasadena
From Kaly
Date Sat 3/21/2026 6:38 PM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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Please do not install artificial turf in Pasadena parks, playing fields, and anywhere children and young people play.
The lcahn School of Medicine has detailed harms to people's health from being on these surfaces at all ages, but especially for young people. "The Children's Environmental Health Center of the lcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai strongly discourages the installation of artificial turf playing surfaces and fields due to the uncertainties surrounding the safety of these products and the potential for dangerous heat and chemical exposures. In addition, recent studies demonstrating the presence of PFAS and microplastics in these products raise significant concerns for both human health and environmental contamination." These installations will be harmful to everyone.
Thank you,
Kaly Trezos
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Public Comment - MSC Item #2
From
Date Sun 3/22/2026 11:55 AM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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Dear Committee Members:
This email expresses my concerns over the use of plastic astroturf "grass" in Pasadena.
Astroturf seems like an economical product to use in that it appears to lower maintenance costs; however, there are other costs that out way this "benefit." As you are well aware of the litigious nature of our society, I can see the increased use of astroturf in Pasadena as a potential target for future litigation for the City from an environmental and personal injury perspective.
In addition to heavy metals and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), astroturf contains per- and poly-fluoralkyl substances (PFAS), which can be found in the backing and "grass blades." A 2024 study completed by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) found that three out of four soccer players or coaches were coated in PFAS after playing on artificial turi'. While the toxicity of PFAS continue to be studied, its effect on the developing bodies of young children is something we shouldn't discount when considering overall costs.
Chemicals in astroturf can also leach off of the product and contaminate water sources.
These artificial covers also impede water infiltration and can contribute to flooding in areas that haven't been designed to absorb additional flow.
Accidents from sports played on astroturf are also a consideration. In her September 19, 2023 article, "Injuries Related to Artificial Turf," Katerina Kerska, from the National Center for Health Research states that there is an increase in ACL and ankle injuries, concussions, abrasions, and heat related injuries when athletes play on artificial surfaces.
These are but a few of the many articles that speak to the issues regarding astroturf. In my opinion, as a 50 year resident of Pasadena, the costs of using this product do not outweigh the "benefit."
Sincerely,
Dianne Franks
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Villa Parke Turf Field
From Clara Carmichael
Date Sun 3/22/2026 2:43 PM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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To Whom It May Concern,
I go to high school in Pasadena, and I am concerned that Pasadena's Municipal Services Committee is being asked to replace the synthetic turf field at Villa Parke with turf instead of grass. A grass field would serve our community much better for many important reasons.
Artificial fields release microplastics which do not break down— they break up into smaller and smaller pieces that can take centuries to eliminate. These microplastics pose serious environmental and health threats to your constituents. I hope that when making this decision Pasadena's MSC will play the long game. Young people like me are counting on you to prioritize giving the athletes who play at Villa Park a better future over the few minor inconveniences that come with grass fields.
I have played soccer in Pasadena for years with AYSO Region 13 and TFA Club, and I know that it is very uncomfortable to play on turf fields. The sun warms the plastic grass to high temperatures making the bottom of my cleats heat up. After the games, my feet will be pink and raw from being scalded every time I take a step. It is not a fun experience. My team and I are always disappointed when we hear that we will be playing a game on a field made of artificial grass. The fans and parents are equally averse because of the sweltering heat on turf sidelines.
The point of an athletic facility is to serve the athletes that play there and the community; to foster a safe and fun athletic environment. By that logic, I urge you to replace Villa Parke's turf field with real grass.
I appreciate all that you do to listen to young people like me who are directly affected by your choices.
Thank you for your time and consideration,
Clara
Clara Carmichael
Polytechnic School
Class of 2029
She/Her/Hers
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Public Comment - MSC Item #2 - Keep it real, Pasadena!
From Eileen Hsu
Date Sun 3/22/2026 6:39 PM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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Dear City Council of Pasadena,
Good day to you. I'm writing to urge you not to use synthetic turf. The only thing it offers is a temporary illusion of green turf, except that it is anything but and comes with high environmental, public health, and taxpayer costs. Even Pasadena's own Turf Removal Program (https://pwp.cityofpasadena.net/turfreplacement/) strongly discourages and strictly prohibits rebate from the use of synthetic turf for all of the reasons that my fellow Pasadena residents who oppose it list. (repeated below for your convenience.)
If cost of maintenance of real turfs is high, increase the field reser/ation prices. If people complain, cite the very real climate change, decreasing availability of water, and increasing cost of living. That's the truth.
Synthetic turf is the lie.
Fake fields are hotter
• Artificial turf can reach 140-180°F on hot days, which we're seeing more and more of. • These temperatures increase risk of burns and heat-related illnesses (heat exhaustion, heat stroke), especially for children and athletes.
•Grass fields stay significantly cooler due to evapotranspiration.
Fake fields produce microplastic pollution
• Turf fields shed microplastics as fibers and rubber infill break down. • These particles enter stormwater systems, waterways, and eventually the ocean. https://outlook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWgOA3H%2Bnm4To90yV%2B7YkwvQp7gABNijXzwM?nativ... 1/3 3/23/26, 7:38 AM Mail - Gao, Beilei - Outlook
Microplastics are now found in air, water, soil, and human bodies, raising long-term health• concerns.
Fake fields expose park users to harmful chemicals
• Many turf systems use crumb rubber infill made from recycled tires, which can contain:
o Heavy metals (e.g., lead, zinc)
o PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons)
• While research is ongoing, there is increasing concern about chronic exposure, especially for youth athletes.
Fake fields provide no environmental benefits
• Unlike grass, artificial turf:
o Does not absorb carbon dioxide
o Does not produce oxygen
o Does not support biodiversity
It replaces living ecosystems with non-recyclable, petroleum-based materials.• Fake fields increase stormwater / flooding risk
Natural soils absorb and filter water.
• Turf fields are typically installed over compacted layers that reduce infiltration. • This can increase urban runoff, increasing local flooding risk and pushing pollutants into local waterways.
Fake fields pose long-term waste and environmental probl< • Artificial turf fields typically last 8-10 years.
• Fields are made from non-biodegradable plastics—most end up in landfills. • Turf is made from fossil fuels and requires energy-intensive manufacturing. • Replacement cycles mean repeated carbon emissions and material use. https://out]ook.office.com/mail/inbox/id/AAkALgAAAAAAHYQDEapmEc2byACqAC%2FEWgOA3H%2Bnm4To90yV%2B7YkwvQp7gABNijXzwAA?nativ..2/3 3/23/26, 7:38 AMMail - Gao, Beilei - Outlook
Fake fields pose greater injury risks
• Studies have found higher rates of certain injuries (e.g., ACL tears, turf burns) on artificial surfaces.
• Turf can create more surface friction and stiffness than natural grass.
Real grass is a time-tested. cooler, safer, and healthier option • Modern grass field management (e.g., improved drainage, drought-tolerant species) can:
o Reduce water use
o Support year-round play
o Deliver environmental and cooling benefits
Thank you for your attention,
Eileen Hsu
. Pasadena, CA 91106
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Villa Parke Turf Field
From Benjamin Heuer
Date Sun 3/22/2026 8:22 PM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>
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To Whom It May Concern,
I go to high school in Pasadena, and I am concerned that Pasadena's Municipal Services Committee is being asked to replace the synthetic turf field at Villa Parke with turf instead of grass. A grass field would serve our community much better for many important reasons.
Artificial fields release microplastics which do not break down— they break up into smaller and smaller pieces that can take centuries to eliminate. These microplastics pose serious environmental and health threats to your constituents. I hope that when making this decision Pasadena's MSC will play the long game. Young people like me are counting on you to prioritize giving the athletes who play at Villa Park a better future over the few minor inconveniences that come with grass fields.
I have an artificial turf yard at home and have had multiple trash cans and other plastic devices melt onto the grass when the temperature rises. I have (luckily) not really had to go on the grass barefoot or in minimal foot covering but can imagine how tough that can be, given that plastic has melted onto it. Those days of extreme heat, I generally avoid playing on the grass outside for fear of my feet burning. The point of installing artificial turfs is to minimize the minor inconveniences provided by organic grass, but in hot places like SoCal and Pasadena, artificial turf can easily go unused because of our climate.
The point of an athletic facility is to serve the athletes that play there and the community; to foster a safe and fun athletic environment. By that logic, I urge you to replace Villa Parke's turf field with real grass.
I appreciate all that you do to listen to young people like me who are directly affected by your choices.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Ben Heuer
(he/they)
Class of 2029
Polytechnic School
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Public Comment for MSC 3/24/26
From Heather Robb
Date Man 3/23/2026 8:01 AM
To Gao, Beilei <[email protected]>,· cityclerk <[email protected]> You don't often get email from. Learn why this is important [A] CAUTION: This email was delivered from the Internet. Do not click links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe. Report phish using the Phish Alert Button. For more information about the Phish Alert Button view article "KB0011474" on the DolT portal.
Hello there,
My name is Heather Robb. I live in District 3, and have served as the "at large" commissioner on the EAC for the past three years. I am writing about Agenda item #2, Artificial Turf at Athletic Fields and City Parks. As an environmental advocate and a Pasadena parent, I am writing to voice my STRONG OPPOSITION to the continued use of Artificial Turf in Pasadena's parks and athletic fields. There are so many arguments against its usage, so as the former head of the EAC's water subcommittee, I'd like to focus on its detrimental impacts on our ground water and drinking water.
Ground Water Since artificial turf is essentially a plastic rug, it prohibits our soil from naturally absorbing rain water. Instead, the water runs off it and is swept away into our storm drains. As Pasadena works towards water independence, we need more opportunities to recharge our groundwater, and the use of artifical turf is in direct opposition to this goal.
Drinking Water: As Artificial Turf ages and breaks down, it pollutes our soil and water with microplastics and PFAS. Pasadena's drinking water is excellent, we have so much to be proud of with our treatment center, and recent testing showed that PFAS are not currently detected in our water. But the continued use of artificial turf will make that more difficult to maintain, and the dangers of both microplastic and PFAS are well-documented.
I urge you to protect the future of Pasadena's water supply, and vote to BAN the continued use of Artificial Turf in our parks and athletic fields.
Thank you,
Heather Robb
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