AGENDA LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE
APRIL 7, 2026
PUBLIC MEETING 5:00 P.M. MEMBERS Steve Madison, Chair, District 6 Gene Masuda, District 4 Jess Rivas, District 5 STAFF Brenda Harvey-Williams, Assistant City Manager Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary MISSION STATEMENT The City of Pasadena is dedicated to delivering exemplary municipal services, responsive to our entire community and consistent with our history, culture and unique character. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Assistive Listening Devices are available from the City Clerk’s Office with a 24-hour advance notice. Please call (626) 744-4124 to request use of a listening device.
Language translation services are available for this meeting by calling (626) 744-4124 at least 24 hours in advance. Habrá servicio de interpretación disponible para éstas juntas llamando al (626) 744-4124 por lo menos con 24 horas de anticipación. Items on the agenda may not be called in order listed. Agendas and supporting documents are available on the Internet at http://www.cityofpasadena.net/commissions/city-council-legislative-policy-committee/ Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the Legislative Policy Committee after distribution of the agenda packet will be posted online and listed as: “Supplemental Agenda Material Received after the Posting of the agenda”
PUBLIC COMMENT AT THE LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING FOR APRIL 7, 2026, AT 5:00 P.M. WILL BE ACCEPTED IN-PERSON AND BY VIDEOCONFERENCE/TELECONFERENCE.
Link to City Meeting Policy:
cityofpasadena.net/CityCouncilMeetingPolicy
TO VIEW A LIVE STREAM OF THE MEETING:
http://pasadena.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=9 AND
WWW.PASADENAMEDIA.ORG
In order to facilitate public participation at meetings the City will accept public comment in the following manner:
1. Whether participating in-person or virtually at the meeting, members of the public may provide public comment by submitting a speaker card prior to the start of public comment on that item, at the following webpage:
www.cityofpasadena.net/commissions/public-comment/
If a public comment speaker wishes to speak on more than one agenda item, please indicate which items on the online form (multiple item speakers will be handled according to the process posted on the agenda and as specified in the City meeting policy). Public comments are limited to 3 minutes each, and the Chair and Committee may limit this time if reasonable under the circumstances.
2. In-person Meeting Participation: Complete an online speaker card at the following website: www.cityofpasadena.net/commissions/public-comment/ After submitting a public speaker card, members of the public may attend the meeting in-person by coming to the Pasadena City Council Chamber, Room S249 at City Hall at the date and start-time of the posted meeting.
Virtual Meeting Participation: For virtual participants, you may attend by connecting to the meeting using a computer, other electronic device, or by telephone. Please review the agenda to identify the published start time for the meeting and connect to the meeting just prior to, or at the start of the meeting.
To participate in public comment for an item and to be recognized to speak, it is required that the speaker login to the meeting using the same name or telephone number used on the Speaker Card form. This will allow City staff to locate and promote the speaker into the meeting when it is time for their public comment.
Participants’ phone calls to the Committee meeting will be recorded as part of the Committee meeting. By staying on the line and making public comment during the Committee meeting by phone, you are agreeing to have your phone call recorded. Following is the connectivity information for virtual participation:
Computer or electronic devices, join the meeting at: cityofpasadena.net/cczoom Telephone only dial-in: 1-669-900-6833, Meeting ID: 161 482 446
3. Speaker Card Help Line: If a public comment speaker needs assistance in completing a speaker card, please call the City Clerk’s Office at: (626) 744-4124.
Help line will open 30 minutes prior to the posted start time of the meeting.
4. Members of the public may submit correspondence of any length prior to the start of the meeting, at the following email address:
Written correspondence will be forwarded to the Legislative Policy Committee prior to the start of the meeting, posted online, and made part of the legislative record for the item.
LIVESTREAM WITH CAPTIONING IS AVAILABLE AT WWW.PASADENAMEDIA.ORG, AND ALSO AT WWW.CITYOFPASADENA.NET/COMMISSIONS/AGENDAS,
IF YOU NEED A REASONABLE MODIFICATION OR ACCOMMODATION PURSUANT
TO THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
BECAUSE YOU ARE UNABLE TO PARTICIPATE ELECTRONICALLY AS SET FORTH ABOVE, CONTACT THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE
AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AT (626) 744-4124 OR
[email protected].
CITY OF PASADENA
NOTICE OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
APRIL 7, 2026
PUBLIC MEETING 5:00 P.M.
PASADENA CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBER
100 NORTH GARFIELD AVENUE, ROOM S249
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the regular meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee, will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., in the Council Chamber to discuss matters on the attached agenda.
STEVE MADISON, Chair
Legislative Policy Committee
I HEREBY CERTIFY that this agenda in its entirety, was posted on the Internet at https://www.cityofpasadena.net/commissions/city-council-leqislative-policy-committee/ and on the Council Chamber Bulletin Board, Room S249, and the Bulletin Board in the rotunda area; City Hall, 100 North Garfield Avenue, this 2nd day of April 2026 by 6:30 p.m. and that copies hereof were emailed or delivered to each member of the City Council and to each local newspaper of general circulation, radio or television station requesting notice in writing, all of which recipients are identified on the distribution herein below.
RUBEN MARTINEZ
City Manager's Office
DISTRIBUTION:
Steve Madison, Councilmember
Gene Masuda, Councilmember
Jess Rivas, Vice Mayor
Miguel Marquez, City Manager
Brenda Harvey-Williams, Assistant City Manager
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk
Michele Bagneris, City Attorney
Jana Stewart, Management Analyst Ill to Mayor/Council
Chris Giglio, Legislative Advocate
Kyra Ross, Legislative Advocate
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary
Pasadena Hastings Library
City Hall Information Kiosk
Pasadena Hastings Library
Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator
Alex Padilla, U.S. Senator
Judy Chu, U.S. Congresswoman
Laura Friedman, U.S. Congresswoman
Sasha Renee Perez, State Senator
John Harabedian, State Assembly
Kathryn Barger, Board of Supervisors
Colorado Boulevard.net
Conversation Live
La Opinion
Los Angeles Times
Pasadena Independent
Pasadena NOW
Pasadena Star-News
Pasadena Weekly
REGULAR MEETING
AGENDA
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
APRIL 7, 2026
Public Meeting: 5:00 P.M.
Council Chamber, Pasadena City Hall
100 North Garfield Avenue, Room S249
The Committee may take action within its authority on any item listed on this agenda as it deems appropriate following consideration and discussion of the matter.
PUBLIC MEETING - 5:00 P.M.
ROLL CALL
PUBLIC COMMENT – Public comment will be limited to a total of 20 minutes at the beginning of the meeting and will continue at the conclusion of the meeting, if necessary. Please limit comments to 3 minutes each.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
January 6, 2026 – Regular Meeting*
February 3, 2026 – Regular Meeting*
OLD BUSINESS
1. CONSIDERATION OF REVISED PROTOCOLS AND PROCEDURES
GOVERNING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR RECOMMENDATION TO THE
FULL CITY COUNCIL
2. UPDATE AND DISCUSSION OF ZONE ZERO*
3. CONTINUED REVIEW AND DISCUSSION OF SB 79 (WIENER) – HOUSING DEVELOPMENT: TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT AND OTHER
RELATED BILLS
NEW BUSINESS
INFORMATION ONLY
Information only items contain no staff recommendations. The committee may, however, take action within its authority relating to informational items on the agenda as it deems appropriate following consideration and discussion of the matter.
4. RE
VIEW AND DISCUSSION OF CALIFORNIA STATE AUDITOR’S 2026-133 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION—STATE ROUTE 710 EXTENSION
PROJECT*
5. BRI
EFING BY KYRA EMANUELS ROSS ON STATE LEGISLATIVE MATTERS
6. BRIEFING BY CHRIS GIGLIO ON FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE MATTERS
7. REVIEW OF RECENT CITY ADVOCACY LETTERS*
8. PAST AGENDAS FOR CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS*
a. Accessibility and Disability Commission – February 24, 2026, March 24, 2026
b. Arts & Culture Commission – February 11, 2026, March 11, 2026 c. Community Police Oversight Commission – March 12, 2026, d. Design Commission – March 10, 2026, March 24, 2026
e. Environmental Advisory Commission – February 10, 2026, March 10, 2026
f. Hahamongna Watershed Park Advisory Committee – March 24, 2026 g. Historic Preservation Commission – March 3, 2026
h. Human Relations Commission – February 3, 2026, March 3, 2026 i. Human Services Commission – February 11, 2026, March 11, 2026 j. Library Commission – February 18, 2026, March 18, 2026 k. Northwest Commission – February 10, 2026, March 10, 2026 l. Pasadena Playhouse Parking Meter Zone Advisory Commission – April 2, 2026
m. Pasadena Rental Housing Board – February 5, 2026, February 19, 2026, March 19, 2026, April 2, 2026
n. Planning Commission – February 11, 2026, February 25, 2026, March 11, 2026
o. Recreation and Parks Commission – February 3, 2026, March 3, 2026 p. Senior Commission – February 10, 2026, March 10, 2026 q. South Lake Parking Place Commission – February 5, 2026 r. Transportation Advisory Commission – February 26, 2026, March 26, 2026
s. Urban Forestry Advisory –March 11, 2026
ADJOURN
* INDICATES ATTACHMENTS INCLUDED
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
January 6, 2026 – Regular Meeting*
February 3, 2026 – Regular Meeting*
01 01/06/2026
CITY OF PASADENA
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MINUTES
PASADENA CITY HALL
100 NORTH GARFIELD AVENUE
COUNCIL CHAMBER – ROOM S249
JANUARY 6, 2026 MEETING
OPENING The Chair called the meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee to order at 5:05 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Staff:
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Vice Mayor Jess Rivas
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk
Brenda Harvey-Williams, Assistant City Manager
Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary
PUBLIC COMMENT
The following individuals spoke on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and/or advocated for the City to divest from fossil fuel and weapon manufacturers:
Randall Heyn-Lamb, representing Pasadena 4 Palestine
Bert Newton, representing Pasadena 4 Palestine
Brian Biery, representing Pasadena 4 Palestine
In response to public comments, Chair Madison stated that the proposed resolution discusse d at the Legislative Policy Committee meeting on Thursday, December 18, 2025 , included specific language that Israel was committing genocide.
Vice Mayor Rivas reported that she is working with staff on a broader resolution regarding investment and social responsibility to present to the Committee in February 2026.
Humaira Afzal, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns on correspondence received for the Legislative Policy Committee meeting on Thursday, December 18, 2025, and asked staff to reconsider releasing records related to her public records request.
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk, detailed staff’s process to extract information from correspondence and offered to speak to Ms. Afza l after the meeting to address her concerns.
OLD BUSINESS
REQUEST BY CHAIR MADISON TO CONSIDER REVISIONS TO
THE CITY’S FAIR CAMPAIGN PRACTICES AGREEMENT
RELATED TO CAMPAIGN MATERIALS, THE TIMING OF
NOTIFICATIONS TO OPPONENTS FOR CAMPAIGN
MESSAGING, AND OTHER RELATED MATTERS
02 01/06/2026
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk , summarized the agenda report as part of a PowerPoint presentation on the item, and responded to questions.
Vice Mayor Rivas spoke on the importance of campaign supporters giving consent for information that will be disclosed in voter support materials.
Chair Madison expressed concerns in the revised agreement being perceived as complicated and a deterrent to candidate participation in the campaign practices agreement, and also recommended City Council adoption before the beginning of the next election cycle.
Following discussion, the Committee reviewed the redlined version of the Pasadena Fair Campaign Practices Agreement, and
recommended the following amendments:
• Amend Section 2, renaming the section “Written Campaign Messaging” to expand the application of campaign
materials beyond “Campaign Advertisements and Mailings”; • Amend Section 2b, defining “Written Campaign Messaging” to include mailers, billboards, signage, electronic mail (to 250 or more recipients), videos, or social media, where campaign funds are expended towards the distribution or amplification of such messaging;
• Amend Section 2b, increasing the period of required
disclosure of campaign messaging to opponents 48 hours
prior to distribution of the messaging, from 14 days prior to the election to 30 days prior to election to cover the full voting period;
• Add Section 2C, prohibiting a candidate from withdrawing from the agreement (mid-campaign) without first giving
written notification of alleged violations of the agreement to all participating candidates in that City Council race, and attempting to mitigate or address the alleged violation(s) directly; and
• Add Section 4, Voter Support Information, to require that the candidate or campaign receive written consent from the voter, including approval of whether and what location
information about the voter is used as part of the campaign messaging.
Following further discussion, it was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by C ouncilmember Masuda , to approve the revised Pasadena Fair Campaign Practices Agreement, including the amendments as detailed above, and forward the item to the City Council for consideration. (Motion unanimously approved)
CONSIDERATION OF REVISED PROTOCOLS AND
PROCEDURES GOVERNING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR
RECOMMENDATION TO THE FULL CITY COUNCIL
03 01/06/2026
Chair Madison provided introductory comments and opened the discussion on City Council protocols and standards for more efficient meetings.
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk, reported that a clock will be installed on the Council Chamber dais before the next City Council meeting scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2026, provided information on the process of City Council meeting agenda review, and responded to questions.
Humaira Afzal, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns on the length of City Council Closed Session delaying the Public Meeting start time of 6:00 p.m., and requested the City Council consider changing the Public Meeting start time to 6:30 p.m.
Vice Mayor Rivas advocated for exploring protocols that increase the efficiency of City Council meetings and reduce delays in the start time for Public Meetings.
Chair Madison echoed similar sentiments related to meeting efficiency and time management , and noted constraints o n the availability of legal counsel during Closed Session.
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
INFORMATION ONLY BRIEFING BY CHRIS GIGLIO ON FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE
MATTERS
Chris Giglio, Federal Legislative advocate for the City, provided an update on the following legislative matters listed below and answered questions on the following topics:
• Five-year anniversary of United States Capitol attack on January 6, 2021;
• Congressional session reconvened on Saturday, January 3, 2026;
• Military operations in Venezuela; and
• Continuing Budget negotiations with Congress looking to pass final budget before resolution expires on Friday,
January 30, 2026
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
BRIEFING BY KYRA EMANUELS ROSS ON STATE
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS
Kyra Emanuels Ross, State Legislative advocate for the City, provided an update on state and local legislative matters listed below and responded to questions:
04 01/06/2026
• State Legislature reconvened on Monday, January 5, 2026; • Monique Limón sworn in as new Senate President Pro
Tempore;
• Governor Newsom’s State of the State speech is scheduled for Thursday, January 8, 2026;
• Governor Newsom’s budget expected to be released on
Friday, January 9, 2026;
• Senate committee assignments and Chairmanships; and
• State Senate Bills (SB) 677 and 79, and concerns related to protections for historic properties.
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
CITY ADVOCACY LETTER
a. SB 677 (Wiener) Transit-oriented Development – Comments for Amendment
Kyra Emanuels Ross, State Legislative advocate for the City, provided an update on Senate Bill (SB) 677, and responded to questions.
The following individuals provided comments in support of Mayor Gordo’s advocacy letter to Governor Newsom regarding SB 79 and SB 677:
Bridget Lawlor, representing Pasadena Heritage
Erica Foy, Pasadena resident
The following individuals spoke in support of SB 79 and affordable housing near public transit stops:
Eric Smith, Pasadena resident
Michael Canavan, Pasadena resident
Tom Boat, Pasadena resident
Sam Alcorn, Pasadena resident
Humaira Afzal, Pasadena resident
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary, reported that the City Clerk’s Office received three letters of correspondence, which w ere distributed to the Committee, posted online, and made part of the public record.
Vice Mayor Rivas expressed concerns related to SB 79’s effect on historic districts in the City and emphasized finding practical solutions, such as advocating for increasing the exemption cap for historic resources from 10% to 20%.
Councilmember Masuda spoke in support of Mayor Gordo’s
advocacy letter, the importance of local control, and protecting historic neighborhoods.
05 01/06/2026
Chair Madison emphasized his support of historic districts in Pasadena and advocated for a City Council discussion on SB 79 advocacy strategy with direction to the Committee on how to assist in refining the process. He indicated the city-owned parcel at Orange Grove Boulevard and Villa Street could be candidate as a transit- oriented housing development.
Following discussion, the Committee directed staff to continue to agendize Senate Bill s 79 and 677: Housing Development: Transit - Oriented Development, as a discussion item for future Legislative Policy Committee meetings, until further notice.
PAST AGENDAS FOR CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
a. Accessibility and Disability Commission – December 16, 2025 b. Code Enforcement Commission – December 4, 2025
c. Design Commission – December 9, 2025, December 16,
2025
d. Northwest Commission – December 9, 2025
e. Pasadena Playhouse Parking Meter Zone Advisory –
December 11, 2025
f. Reconnecting Communities 710 Advisory Group – December 17, 2025
g. Urban Forestry Advisory – December 10, 2025
Following a brief discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
REQUESTS FOR FUTURE
AGENDA ITEMS
Brenda Harvey-Williams, Assistant City Manager, reported that the February 2026 Committee meeting will include a review of the State and Federal Legislative Platforms for 2026.
ADJOURNMENT On the order of the Chair, the meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee was adjourned at 6:39 p.m.
ATTEST:
____________________
Tamer Sabha
Recording Secretary
_________________________________
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Legislative Policy Committee
01 02/03/2026
CITY OF PASADENA
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MINUTES
PASADENA CITY HALL
100 NORTH GARFIELD AVENUE
COUNCIL CHAMBER – ROOM S249
FEBRUARY 3, 2026
OPENING The Chair called the meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee to order at 5:04 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Staff:
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair (via teleconference) Vice Mayor Jess Rivas
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Matt Hawkesworth, Assistant City Manager
Brenda Harvey-Williams, Assistant City Manager
Karin Schnaider, Director of Finance
Chad Augustin, Fire Chief
Vic Erganian, Deputy Director of Finance/City Treasurer Alex Souto, Deputy City Manager
Alex Hernandez, Assistant to the City Manager
Kathleen Chen, Management Analyst IV
Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary
Chair Madison reported that he will be participating via teleconference, per the “ Just Cause” provision pursuant to Government Code Section 54953.8.3; and stated that no one over 18 years of age is in the room with him.
Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney, provided clarification on California Government Code 54953.8.3, and responded to
questions.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Yadi, Pasadena resident, encouraged the City to support Assembly Bill (AB) 1337, reforming the Information Practices Act to strengthen personal information privacy protections from government utilization.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
It was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by Councilmember Masuda to approve the minutes of December 18, 2025 , as submitted:
AYES: Councilmember Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Chair
Madison
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
OLD BUSINESS
CONSIDERATION OF REVISED PROTOCOLS AND
PROCEDURES GOVERNING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR
RECOMMENDATION TO THE FULL CITY COUNCIL
02 02/03/2026
Chair Madison provided introductory comments and opened the discussion on City Council protocols and standards for more efficient meetings.
Chair Madison spoke in support of utilizing the lighting sequence used for public comment as a n effective visual cue for tracking Councilmembers discussion on the dais , and proposed exploring a process to notify the City Council when the Mayor is unavailable due to travel or other exigent circumstances.
Vice Mayor Rivas and Councilmember Masuda echoed similar sentiments, noting the benefits of receiving advance notice when the Mayor will be unavailable.
The following individuals provided comments on the length of City Council Closed Session delaying the Public Meeting start time of 6:00 p.m.:
Humaira Afzal, Pasadena resident
Rachel Darling, Pasadena resident
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary, reported that the City Clerk’s Office received one correspondence, which w as distributed to the Committee, posted online, and made part of the record for this item.
Chair Madison spoke in support of allocating sufficient time for Closed Session, beginning Public Meetings on time, and stated that public comments from today’s meeting will be conveyed to the full City Council.
Vice Mayor Rivas suggested exploring adopting a policy for setting a hard stop in Closed Session in order to start Public Meet ings on time.
Following a brief discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed
NEW BUSINESS APPROVAL OF THE FEDERAL & STATE LEGISLATIVE PLATFORMS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2026
Brenda Harvey -Williams, Assistant City Manager, provided introductory comments, and Kathleen Chen, Management Analyst IV, summarized the agenda report as part of a PowerPoint presentation on the item, with both responding to questions.
Chair Madison provided comments on the following sections of the Federal and State Legislative platforms:
• Immigration: Federal immigration enforcement operations in the City, instances where Pasadena Police work
collaboratively with Federal government agencies, and stated the following for the record, “I would like the record to reflect 03 02/03/2026
that this is yet another casualty of the overreaching and unlawful conduct of our federal government presently.”
• Local Zoning Authority: Concerned with language that may suggest opposition to the State’s interest in housing
development.
• Campaign Finance: Asked staff for clarity on the citation of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission.
• Early Childhood: Recommended recognizing the efforts of Dianne Philibosian, an advocate of early childhood education in Pasadena, with a legislative bill or federal or state- funded program in her name, and exploring funding opportunities for after school and early childhood education programs.
• Tort Reform and Workers’ Compensation: Shared concerns with permitting members of the City Council to make broad statements or take positions to support matters that would not be supported by the full City Council.
In addition, Chair Madison recommended including a section in the legislative platforms with verbiage of the City’s commitment t o fair and democratic elections constitutionally conducted at the State and local level, and adding language to support funding for the City’s Fire Department headquarters and training center.
Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney, provided background information on the “Campaign Finance” section of the 2026 Federal Legislation Platform, and responded to questions.
Alex Hernandez, Assistant to the City Manager, provided information on the Office of the Young Child, and responded to questions.
Alex Souto, Deputy City Manager, clarified the intent of the language in the “Tort Reform” section of the 2026 State Legislative Platform, and responded to questions.
Vice Mayor Rivas spoke in support of including language on the City’s desire to work collaboratively with the State to preserve historic districts.
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary, reported that the City Clerk’s Office received one correspondence, which was distributed to the Committee, posted online, and made part of the public record.
Yadi, Pasadena resident, advocated for the Committee to include the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and regulation of drones in the legislative platforms. She also spoke in support of Zone Zero initiatives, exploring funding sources for Fire Department infrastructure projects, and requested the City Council hold a discussion on automated speed cameras.
Following discussion, the Committee requested staff make the following revisions to the legislative platforms:
04 02/03/2026
• Add a new section in the Federal Platform to include the City’s support for election integrity;
• Add verbiage to support collaborative opportunities with the State in the development of policy; and
• Revise the “Tort Reform” section in the State Platform to be more generalized.
Following further discussion, it was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by Councilmember Masuda, to approve the staff
recommendation, including the amendments as detailed above, and forward the item to the City Council for consideration:
AYES: Councilmember Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Chair
Madison
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
INFORMATION ONLY BRIEFING BY KYRA EMANUELS ROSS ON STATE
LEGISLATIVE MATTERS
Kyra Emanuels Ross, State Legislative advocate for the City, provided an update on state and local legislative matters listed below and responded to questions:
• State legislature House of Origin bill deadline was January 30, 2026;
• Senate Bill (SB) 677 and SB 908, SB 79 cleanup bills; • AB 1421, requires California Transportation Commission to conduct a study and provide recommendations related to a road usage charge or mileage-based fee system;
• Budget subcommittee hearings examining Governor’s
budget and preparing Budget Bill with a deadline of June 15, 2026;
• Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) estimates budget deficit of $18 billion;
• Bill introduction deadline for new bills on February 20, 2026, with 250 bills introduced this year and an expected 2,500 to be introduced by the deadline;
• State Legislative advocates for the City scheduled to meet with Senator Wiener to discuss protections for historic districts and resources; and
• Policy issues emerging this year include wildfire and disaster recovery, housing affordability, social media and teens, and immigration.
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
05 02/03/2026
CITY INVESTMENTS
Karin Schnaider, Director of Finance, summarized the agenda report as part of a PowerPoint presentation on the item, and responded to questions.
Vic Erganian, Deputy Director of Finance/City Treasurer, provided information on the City’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policy, Fire and Police Retirement System (FPRS) Board pension fund investment policies, and responded to questions.
The following individuals spoke in support of adopting a stronger ethical investment policy, rejecting the proposed ethical investment resolution, and provided other comments on the matter:
Avraham Stern Coutin, Pomona resident
Dr. Lena Al Sarraf, Pasadena resident
Rick Chertoff, Sherman Oaks resident
Jesse Duker, representing The Jewish Federation
Rachel Darling, Pasadena resident
Brooklyn Kleckley, Pasadena resident
Zayna Altoubal, residence not stated
Michael Flynn, residence not stated
Eric Pettit, residence not stated
Humaira Afzal, Pasadena resident
Lucinda Wills, Pasadena resident
Teri Stein, residence not stated
Bailey Payne, Pasadena resident
Estee Chandler, residence not stated
Edmond Mandin, Highland Park resident
Rob Muthial, Pasadena resident
Bert Newton, representing Pasadena for Palestine
Erin Scott-Walsh, Pasadena resident
Sandy Annala, residence not stated
Sharon Washington, representing Harvest Rock Salt & Light Reformers
Vice Mayor Rivas spoke in support of the Committee recommending to the City Council that the ESG policy clearly articulate s the City’s values by prohibiting investments in fossil fuel producers, weapons manufacturers, and private prison companies, and recommend and encourage the FPRS to adopt a similar ESG model.
Following discussion, it was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by Councilmember Masuda, to recommend updat ing the City’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policy framework to prohibit investments in fossil fuel producers, weapons
manufacturers, and private prison companies ; recommend to the Fire and Police Retirement System (FPRS) Board to review and consider adopting a similar ESG model; and forward the item to the City Council for consideration:
06 02/03/2026
AYES: Councilmember Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Chair
Madison
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ZONE ZERO UPDATE
Chad Augustin, Fire Chief, provided introductory comments, presented a PowerPoint presentation on the item, and responded to questions.
Councilmember Masuda expressed cost and enforcement concerns related to the State-mandated Zone Zero requirements and its effect on the Upper Hastings Ranch community after the Eaton Fire.
Chair Madison spoke on the importance of local control and the effectiveness of the Fire Department inspections and compliance of residents.
The following individuals provided comments on Zone Zero, wildfire resilience and management, and protecting the City’s urban canopy:
Yadi, Pasadena resident
Jessica Richards, Pasadena resident
Rebecca Rea, Pasadena resident
Nick Giovanazzi, representing Pasadena Heritage
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary, reported that the City Clerk’s Office received five letters, which were distributed to the Committee, posted online, and made part of the public record.
Following discussion, the Committee directed staff to monitor updates to Zone Zero and return to the next Committee meeting in March 2026 to present a recommendation for alternative methods that provide similar fire safety results as outlined in the Zone Zero regulation.
BRIEFING BY CHRIS GIGLIO ON FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE
MATTERS
Chris Giglio, Federal Legislative advocate for the City, provided an update on the following legislative matters listed below and answered questions on the following topics:
• Budget spending package will fund the Federal
government until September 30, 2026;
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS) budget guardrails for actions of Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE);
07 02/03/2026
• Budget package includes $1 million earmarked for Jackie Robinson Community Center renovations; and
• Presidential Executive Order related to local permitting processes and rebuilding from the Palisades and Eaton
fires
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
PAST AGENDAS FOR CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
a. Accessibility and Disability Commission – January 27, 2026 b. Arts & Culture Commission – January 14, 2026
c. Code Enforcement Commission – January 22, 2026
d. Commission on the Status of Women – January 7, 2026
e. Community Police Oversight Commission – January 8, 2026 f. Design Commission – December 27, 2026
g. Environmental Advisory Commission – January 13, 2026 h. Hahamongna Watershed Park Advisory Commission –
January 27, 2026
i. Human Relations Commission – January 6, 2026
j. Human Services Commission – January 14, 2026
k. Library Commission – January 21, 2026
l. Northwest Commission – January 13, 2026
m. Old Pasadena Parking Meter Zone Advisory – January 15, 2026
n. Pasadena Rental Housing Board – January 15, 2026
o. Planning Commission – January 14, 2026
p. Recreation and Parks Commission – January 6, 2026
q. Senior Commission – January 13, 2026
r. Transportation Advisory Commission – January 22, 2026
Following a brief discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
ADJOURNMENT On the order of the Chair, the regular meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee was adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
ATTEST:
____________________
Tamer Sabha
Recording Secretary
_________________________________
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Legislative Policy Committee
OLD BUSINESS
2. UPDATE AND DISCUSSION OF ZONE ZERO*
Fire Department
Zone Zero
Legislative Policy Committee
April 7, 2026
Fire Department
Background
• In 2020, California enacted Assembly Bill 3074 mandating the creation of an “ember-resistant zone” within five feet of structures in designated high fire hazard areas.
> This zone is referred to as Zone Zero
• Originally set to take effect in 2023, the regulations have not been finalized.
• In February 2025, Governor Newson issued Executive Order N-18- 25 directing the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection to expedite the adoption of Zone Zero with a goal to have these in place by the end of 2025.
• As of December 2025, the Board has not finalized the adoption. 2 Fire Department
What is Zone Zero?
• Zone Zero is an area of defensible
space within the first five feet of a
home or structure.
> Keeping the area closest to structure
clear of combustibles helps prevent
embers from igniting flammable
materials on or adjacent to the
structure.
• Zone Zero will apply* to:
> All new construction in California’s
State Responsibility Area
> All State Responsibility Areas and Very
High Fire Hazard Severity Zones of Local
Responsibility Areas
All existing structures, homes and business
owners will have 3 years to clear vegetation
and combustibles
Local governments can set compliance rules
based on local conditions, and historic
buildings may qualify for exemptions
3 *pending finalization and adoption of regulations
Fire Department
What is Zone Zero?
• What to do* in Zone Zero:
> Keeping roofs, gutters, and the area within five feet of a home free of leaves and needles
> Removing combustible materials such as firewood near buildings Rules on vegetation such as plants and trees are still being finalized » Currently, no landscaping material that is likely to be ignited by embers are permitted with Zone Zero
» Exceptions for potted plants and well-maintained plants are being discussed » Exceptions for trees that extend above structures are being discussed > Ensuring that fences and gates attached to buildings must be made of non-combustible materials for the first five feet > Ensuring that outbuildings within five feet be built entirely of non- combustible materials
> Local fire agencies have discretion approve alternative methods that provide similar fire safety results as those outlined in the regulation
4 *pending finalization and adoption of regulations
Fire Department
Zone Zero Vegetation Options
• Option 1- Some plants in pots allowed
> No flammable landscaping materials are permitted, including grass, shrubs, mulches, etc. > Exception: potted plants (under 18 inches tall) are allowed if kept away from walls, windows, and vents.
• Option 2 – Some plants in pots and low maintained vegetation allowed > Same as Option 1 but also allows low plants under 4 inches tall (like moss or lawns) if kept away from walls, vents, and windows
• Option 3 – Some plants, in pots or planted allowed
> No flammable landscaping materials are permitted including dead or dying plants, mulches, etc.
> Plants 18 inches or less are allowed as long as they are spaced appropriately and not directly beneath, above, or in front of windows, doors, or vents. • Option 4 – Well maintained plants allowed
> Allows plants in pots and other vegetation in Zone 0 but prohibits dead or dying plants, needles, leaves, weeds, and combustible mulches
5 Fire Department
Zone Zero Tree Options
• Option 1 – Well-maintained trees allowed, local tree
protection included
> Branches must be at least 5 feet away from walls and above roofs and 10 feet from chimneys.
> Includes exceptions for trees protected by local ordinance. • Option 2 - Well-maintained trees allowed, branches
must be 10 feet from chimneys
> Nearly identical but does not reference local tree
ordinances and only stipulates that branches must be ten feet away from chimneys.
6 Fire Department
Local Challenges
• Lack of consensus at the State level
> 6 years of discussion with no adoption
• Costs of Zone Zero abatement ranges from $10k-$100k
> Removal of flammable materials including landscaping, firewood, and attached fences
> Well-maintained trees would be allowed only if the branches are pruned so that the lowest are at least five feet above the roof
7 Fire Department
Local City Stances
• Glendale:
> In October 2025, Glendale City
Council unanimously voted for
the City to prepare a letter
supporting local control
> In January 2026, GFD
encourages residents to act
now to better protect their
homes and not wait for the state
mandate to take effect
• Los Angeles:
> LAFD presented a report in
September 2025 recommended LA
City Council to write a position
letter and attend Zone Zero
Committee meetings
> In January 2026, the LA City Council
directed LAFD to develop Zone
Zero regulations based on local
expertise, using Options 4 and 2,
until the state finalizes its guidance
A date was not given for when
LAFD should return with
recommendations
8 Fire Department
Community Feedback
• Of the options provided by the state, public
comments are supportive of option 4 for
vegetation and option 2 for trees
• Pasadena Resident comments:
> Support for local control and science-based policy
> Oppose one-size-fits-all statewide mandate
> Preserve healthy vegetation and urban tree
canopy
> Preference of options 4 and 2
9 Fire Department
Current Status
• The new rules are expected to be adopted in
2026
> New properties will need to comply immediately
upon adoption
> Existing properties may need to be compliant by
2029
• The next Zone Zero Committee meeting is
scheduled for April 23, 2026
10 Fire Department
Recommendations & Options
• Continue to monitor for the final Zone Zero
passage or have City Council advocate for
specific vegetation and tree options
• Communicate to the California Board of
Forestry and Fire Protection (Board) concerns
over the cost of compliance per impacted
residence
• Communicate to the Board the City’s
concerns regarding enforcement
requirements and implementation challenges
11 INFORMATION ITEMS
4. CITY REVIEW AND DISCUSSION OF CALIFORNIA STATE
AUDITOR’S 2026-133 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION—
STATE ROUTE 710 EXTENSION PROJECT*
INFORMATION ITEMS
7. REVIEW OF RECENT CITY ADVOCACY LETTERS*
°fpAa^y-%^^^ tj-
ffi^'lf ^s z5F»
0 ^^s/
OFFICE OP THE MAYOR
March 25, 2026
The Honorable Suzette Valladares
California State Senate
1021 0 Street, Room 7340
Sacramento, CA 95814
RE: SB 1352 (Valladares): Property Taxation: Newly Constructed: Reconstructed Property - Support
I am writing to express support of SB 1352. This important measure provides clarity and certainty for property owners rebuilding homes and other improvements damaged or destroyed by disaster on or after January 1, 2025. By defining "substantially equivalent" in the Revenue and Taxation Code to allow a reconstmcted improvement to be up to 110 percent of its original size without triggering reassessment as new construction, SB 1352 ensures that disaster survivors can rebuild without jeopardizing their existing property tax base.
Under California's constitutional property tax framework established by Proposition 13, property owners are protected from reassessment when rebuilding property damaged or destroyed by misfortune or calamity, so long as the replacement property is substantially equivalent to what was lost. This protection is intended to provide stability and prevent increased tax burdens during times of recovery. However, current law does not clearly define the scope of "substantially equivalent," creating uncertainty for homeowners seeking to rebuild in compliance with modem building standards and local permitting allowances.
Following recent wildfire events — including the Baton Fire and the Palisades Fire — the City of Pasadena adopted expedited rebuilding policies, including City Ordinance 7444. This ordinance permits people to rebuild structures damaged and destroyed by the Baton Fire without a City issued land use entitlement if the project is in a similar location, is no more than 10% larger than the original floor area or footprint or 200 square feet for certain projects, and is no more than 10% taller than the original height. Despite local approval of these rebuilding standards, ambiguity in property tax law has raised concerns that rebuilding within the 110 percent threshold could inadvertently trigger reassessment.
SB 1352 resolves this uncertainty by expressly providing that a reconstmcted improvement may be up to 110 percent of its original size and still qualify as substantially 100 North Garfield Avenue • Pasadena, CA 91109
(626) 744-4^11 Fax (626) 744-3921
SB 1352 (Valladares) - Support
March 25, 2026
equivalent for purposes of retaining its prior base year value. This clarification aligns property tax law with existing rebuilding practices, supports unifonn application across counties, and ensures that homeowners who follow approved rebuilding guidelines are not penalized with higher property taxes during recovery.
By providing clear statutory guidance, SB 1352 strengthens taxpayer protections, promotes consistency, and supports communities working to recover from devastating disasters.
It is a practical and timely solution that upholds California's longstanding commitment to property tax stability while recognizing the realities of modem rebuilding standards. It is for these reasons that the City of Pasadena supports SB 1352. (? ^
VICTOR M.GORDO
Mayor
i
INFORMATION ITEMS
8. PAST AGENDAS FOR CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS