AGENDA LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE
MAY 5, 2026
PUBLIC MEETING 5:00 P.M. MEMBERS Steve Madison, Chair, District 6 Gene Masuda, District 4 Jess Rivas, District 5 STAFF Phillip Leclair, Acting 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 MAY 5, 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
MAY 5, 2026
PUBLIC MEETING 5:00 P.M.
PASADENA CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBER
100 NORTH GARFIELD AVENUE, ROOM 5249
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the regular meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee, will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 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 httos://www.cityofoasadena.net/commissions/city-council-leqislative-oolicy-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 30th 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
Matthew Hawkesworth, Interim City Manager
Phillip Leclair, Acting 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
MAY 5, 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
February 18, 2026 – Special Meeting*
March 3, 2026 – Cancelled Meeting*
April 7, 2026 – Regular Meeting*
OLD BUSINESS
1. CONSIDERATION OF REVISED PROTOCOLS AND PROCEDURES
GOVERNING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR RECOMMENDATION TO THE
FULL CITY COUNCIL
NEW BUSINESS
2. SUPPORT FOR CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY BILL 2329 (FONG) – SURPLUS PROPERTY DISPOSITION – CITY OF PASADENA PROPOSED
AMENDMENTS AND AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN LETTER OF
SUPPORT*
3. BUDGET WORKSHOPS – FY 2027 RECOMMEND OPERATING BUDGET a. LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT*
b. CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE*
c. CITY COUNCIL*
d. OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK*
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. BRIEFING BY KYRA EMANUELS ROSS ON STATE LEGISLATIVE MATTERS
a. SB 1361 (Durazo) Transit-Oriented Housing Developments b. AB 1768 (Bryan) LA County Sales Tax
5. BRIEFING BY CHRIS GIGLIO ON FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE MATTERS
6. REVIEW OF RECENT CITY ADVOCACY LETTERS*
7. PAST AGENDAS FOR CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS*
a. Accessibility and Disability Commission – April 28, 2026 b. Commission on the Status of Women - April 1, 2026
c. Community Police Oversight Commission – April 9, 2026 d. Environmental Advisory Commission – April 14, 2026
e. Historic Preservation Commission – April 21, 2026
f. Human Relations Commission – April 7, 2026
g. Human Services Commission – April 8, 2026
h. Library Commission – April 15, 2026
i. Northwest Commission – April 14, 2026
j. Planning Commission – April 22, 2026
k. Recreation and Parks Commission – April 7, 2026
l. Senior Commission – April 14, 2026
m. South Lake Parking Place Commission – April 9, 2026
n. Transportation Advisory Commission – April 23, 2026
o. Urban Forestry Advisory – April 8, 2026
ADJOURN
* INDICATES ATTACHMENTS INCLUDED
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
February 18, 2026 – Special Meeting*
March 3, 2026 – Cancelled Meeting*
April 7, 2026 – Regular Meetings*
01 02/18/2026
CITY OF PASADENA
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MINUTES
PASADENA CITY HALL
100 NORTH GARFIELD AVENUE
COUNCIL CHAMBER – ROOM S249
FEBRUARY 18, 2026
OPENING The Chair called the special meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee to order at 3:11 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Staff:
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Vice Mayor Jess Rivas
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Brenda Harvey-Williams, Assistant City Manager
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk
Karin Schnaider, Director of Finance
Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary
OLD BUSINESS CONSIDERATION OF REVISED PROTOCOLS AND
PROCEDURES GOVERNING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR
RECOMMENDATION TO THE FULL CITY COUNCIL
Due to time constraints, on the order of the Chair, and by consensus of the Committee, the above referenced item will be continued to a future Committee meeting.
NEW BUSINESS REVIEW AND DISCUSSION OF AB 1768 (BRYAN) – TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAXES: COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES
Kyra Emanuels Ross, State Legislative advocate for the City, provided an oral report on Assembly Bill (AB) 1768, and responded to questions.
Chair Madison requested staff continue to monitor developments to AB 1768 and analyze the City’s flexibility for a sales tax increment.
REVIEW AND DISCUSSION OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY
ESSENTIAL SERVICES RESTORATION ACT
Chair Madison provided introductory comments , opened a discussion on the Los Angeles Essential Services Restoration Act, and announced that New Business agenda items would be
discussed concurrently.
Chair Madison spoke in support of using guardrails when Councilmembers attend press conferences; and on the need for staff to distribute all city press releases and invitations to public events that utilize city resources to the City Council.
02 02/18/2026
Vice Mayor Rivas echoed Chair Madison’s comments on
Councilmembers showing support in a personal capacity in contrast to the appearance of officially representing the City, and spoke in support of continuing discussions to develop guidelines for the City Council.
Brenda Harvey -Williams, Assistant City Manager, provided information on potential funding for the Pasadena Public Health Department, and responded to questions.
DISCUSSION OF POTENTIAL CITY OF PASADENA ¼ CENT
SALES TAX INCREASE
Chair Madison provided introductory comments , opened a discussion of the potential City of Pasadena ¼ cent sales tax increase.
Karin Schnaider, Director of Finance , provided information on city and county sales tax rates, and Los Angeles County Measure A funding distribution, and responded to questions.
Mark Jomsky, City Clerk, provided information on the ballot measure filing deadline for the June 2, 2026 Primary Election, and associated election costs, and responded to questions.
Brenda Harvey -Williams, Assistant City Manager, provided information on public opinion polling prior to introducing local ballot measures, and responded to questions.
Chair Madison asked staff to determine if Huntington Hospital is supportive of the Essential Services Restoration Act and volunteered to contact the hospital for feedback, and contact Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s office to request information on county polling in support of the proposed measure.
MOTION: Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by Vice Mayor Rivas, to bring forward agenda item Nos. 2 (Review and Discussion of AB 1768 (Bryan) – Transactions and Use Taxes: County of Los Angeles ), 3 (Review and Discussion o f Los Angeles County Essential Services Restoration Act), and 4 (Discussion of Potential City o f Pasadena ¼ Cent Sales Tax Increase) to the City Council for discussion and consideration. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: None)
REQUESTS FOR FUTURE
AGENDA ITEMS
Chair Madison requested staff agendize a discussion on best practices for the use of press releases and resources by Councilmembers, and to research similar practices by other cities.
Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney, stated that the City Attorney’s Office will work in conjunction with the City Manager’s Office on the request.
03 02/18/2026
ADJOURNMENT On the order of the Chair, the special m eeting of the Legislative Policy Committee was adjourned at 4:04 p.m.
ATTEST:
____________________
Tamer Sabha
Recording Secretary
_________________________________
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Legislative Policy Committee
03/03/2026
CITY OF PASADENA
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MINUTES
PASADENA CITY HALL
100 NORTH GARFIELD AVENUE
COUNCIL CHAMBER – ROOM S249
MARCH 3, 2026, MEETING
The regular meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee, scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., was cancelled as ordered on February 26, 2026, and posted by staff.
ATTEST:
____________________
Tamer Sabha
Recording Secretary
_________________________________
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Legislative Policy Committee
01 04/07/2026
CITY OF PASADENA
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MINUTES
PASADENA CITY HALL
100 NORTH GARFIELD AVENUE
COUNCIL CHAMBER – ROOM S249
APRIL 7, 2026
OPENING The Chair called the meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee to order at 5:09 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Staff:
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Vice Mayor Jess Rivas
Councilmember Gene Masuda (arrived at 5:18 p.m.)
Brenda Harvey-Williams, Assistant City Manager
Chad Augustin, Fire Chief
Tim Sell, Deputy Fire Chief
Jose Enriquez, Deputy Fire Marshal
Jason M ikaelian, Deputy Director of Planning and Community Development
Arnold Lee, Chief Assistant City Attorney
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary
APPROVAL OF MINUTES It was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by Chair Madison to approve the minutes of January 6, 2026, and February 3, 2026, as submitted. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmember Masuda)
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 reconvened from Spring Recess on Monday, April 6, 2026;
• Legislative fiscal policy deadline is April 24, 2026, addressing approximately 950 bills;
• Senator Wiener will not move forward with Senate Bill (SB) 677, SB 908, or any SB 79 clean-up bills;
• Senator Harabedian amended A ssembly Bill (AB) 2578, contains language to add historic buildings on the state and national register before January 1, 2025, and a one- year delay in the operative date of SB 79;
• Senator Duraz o gutted and amended SB 1361, a bill
sponsored by LA Metro to address SB 79 issues;
• Nine bills regarding data centers moving through the legislature;
• Los Angeles County sales tax bill; and
• Housing and permitting bills.
02 04/07/2026
Councilmember Masuda
arrived at 5:18 p.m.
Yadi, Pasadena resident, advocated for the C ity Council to support and monitor state bills focusing o n immigration ( SB 1105, AB 1807) , wildfire technology (SB 1079) , information privacy protections (AB 1337), public contracting (AB 1786), and public lands protection (AB 1624).
Chair Madison spoke in support of the City Council showing a strong interest on data centers, and shared concerns with the effect of data centers on the electrical grid and real estate resources.
Councilmember Masuda expressed concerns on the Amazon
property on New York Drive being utilized as a data center and shared that it is a high interest topic for Council District 4 residents.
Jason Mikaelian, Deputy Director of Planning and Community Development, responded that based on the information received, the Amazon property is classified for research and development and office use, and responded to questions.
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
OLD BUSINESS CONTINUED REVIEW AND DISCUSSION OF SB 79 (WIENER) HOUSING DEVELOPMENT: TRANSIT-ORIENTED
DEVELOPMENT AND OTHER RELATED BILLS
Chair Madison provided introductory comments and commenced the discussion on SB 79 and other related bills.
Kyra Emanuels Ross, State Legislative advocate for the City, provided information on conversations between the State Assembly and State Senate to delay the operative date of SB 79 to give local agencies additional time for mapping and implementation, and responded to questions.
The following individuals spoke in support of the City implementing SB 79:
P.A. Brown, Pasadena resident
Yadi, Pasadena resident
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 record for this item.
Councilmember Masuda expressed support for building housing in the city and the importance of local control in addressing the concerns of neighborhoods.
Chair Madison stated that affordable housing is a significant issue throughout the United States and proposed examin ing available resources such as the 710 Freeway stub, the former Kaiser Permanente property on Lake Avenue/Villa Street, and the former 03 04/07/2026
YWCA building as opportunities for innovation in developing housing with consideration for SB 79.
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
UPDATE AND DISCUSSION OF ZONE ZERO
Fire Chief Chad Augustin, presented a Power Point presentation as part of his oral update on Zone Zero, including information on the definition of Zone Zero (an area of defensible space withing first five feet of a home or structure), Zone Zero vegetation and tree options, local challenges, and community feedback, and responded to questions.
Tamer Sabha, Recording Secretary, reported that the City Clerk's Office received three letters of correspondence, which were distributed to the Committee, posted online, and made part of the record for this item.
The following individuals spoke in support of the City Council agendizing support for Zone Zero Vegetation Options 2 and 4 and local control:
Lee Wallace, representing the West Pasadena Residents
Association
Yadi, Pasadena resident
Jessica Richards, Pasadena resident
Lauren Siegal, representing the Environmental Advisory
Commission
Vice Mayor Rivas proposed submitting a support letter for Zone Zero Vegetation Options 2 (Some plants in pots and low maintained vegetation allowed) and 4 (well-maintained plants allowed), and include details of the city’s implementation of alternative methods that provide similar fire safety results as outlined in Zone Zero.
Chair Madison expressed appreciation to the Fire Department staff for their attentiveness in home brush inspections and reported out letters he received from neighborhood and other local associations advocating for Zone Zero Vegetation Option 4 (Well-maintained plants allowed) and Zone Zero Tree Option 2 (Well-maintained trees allowed, branches must be 10 feet from chimneys).
Following discussion, it was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by Councilmember Masuda to support Mayor Gordo sending a letter to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection expressing the City of Pasadena’s position in support of Zone Zero Vegetation Option 4 (Well-maintained plants allowed) and Zone Zero Tree Option 2 (Well-maintained trees allowed, branches must be 10 feet from chimneys) in order to preserve local authority within the local responsibility area, and forward the item to the City Council for consideration. (Motion unanimously approved)
04 04/07/2026
INFORMATION ONLY –
Cont.
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:
• Military operations in the Middle East;
• President Trump released Fiscal Year (FY) 2027
discretionary budget request to Congress on April 3, 2026; • Proposed elimination of Community Development Block
Grant (CDBG) program and HOME Investment Partnerships
Program that provide $3 million annually to the city;
• Congress working on reauthorization of Federal h ighway, transit and rail programs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers flood control and navigation projects, telecommunications
legislation; and
• President’s Executive Order (EO) 14365: Removing Barriers to American Leadership in AI.
Chair Madison expressed strong support for the regulation of artificial intelligence and social media platforms , noting K.G.M. v.
Meta et al . and Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act (1996).
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
OLD BUSINESS –
Cont.
CONSIDERATION OF REVISED PROTOCOLS AND
PROCEDURES GOVERNING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS FOR
RECOMMENDATION TO THE FULL CITY COUNCIL
Chair Madison provided introductory comments and opened a discussion on City Council protocols and standards for more efficient meetings.
The Committee discussed the following topics and suggestions to improve City Council meeting efficiency:
• Councilmembers adhering to a speaking time limit of five- minutes at the dais;
• Encouraging the Mayor and Vice Mayor to utilize the clock at the dais to track speaking time;
• Using allotted speaking time to express own views and not summarize the comments of other Councilmembers;
• Consideration of time and impact on the community with the order of agenda items discussed; and
• Asking questions to staff in advance of the meeting.
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
05 04/07/2026
PUBLIC COMMENT P.A. Brown , Pasadena resident, encouraged the committee to explore the installation of automated traffic enforcement cameras as a potential revenue source.
Chair Madison requested Kyra Emanuels Ross, State Legislative advocate for the City , provide an update on AB 645 and SB 720 at the next Legislative Policy Committee meeting, and requested staff contact public safety personnel and the City Attorney’s Office for their input on both bills.
The following individuals spoke in support of the City Council adopting a resolution in support of nuclear abolition:
Kyle McGrath, representing Back from the Brink
Alon Friedman, representing Back from the Brink
Yadi, Pasadena resident, advocated for the city to establish a n advisory body or codify a method for residents to give input on technology-related issues, artificial intelligence, and privacy concerns.
INFORMATION ONLY –
Cont.
REVIEW OF RECENT CITY ADVOCACY LETTERS
The Committee reviewed advocacy letters written by the Office of the Mayor in support of SB 1004 and SB 1352, and distributed to Senators Wiener, Arreguin, Pérez, Wahib, and Valladares.
Brenda Harvey -Williams, Assistant City Manager, provided information on the City Council budget workshop briefing related to the Los Angeles County Measure ER.
Chair Madison asked staff to agendize a discussion on Los Angeles County Measure ER at the next Committee meeting; and
communicate any concerns with advocacy letters that may be in misalignment with the city’s legislative platforms.
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
Following a brief discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
REVIEW AND DISCUSSION OF CALIFORNIA STATE
AUDITOR’S 2026-133 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION—
STATE ROUTE 710 EXTENSION PROJECT
Chair Madison provided introductory comments and opened a discussion on the audit of the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) State Route 710 Extension Project.
06 04/07/2026
Chair Madison stated that he and Councilmember Cole, in their individual capacities, attended the press conference in South Pasadena on Friday, March 20, where Senator Pérez announced she was seeking an independent state audit of Caltrans’ management of the former State Route 710 e xtension properties, and applauded her vigilance in ensuring transparency and accountability to the community.
Following discussion, on the order of the Chair and by consensus of the Committee, the information was received and filed.
COMMITTEE COMMENTS Chair Madison congratulated Assistant City Manager Harvey - Williams on her upcoming retirement and expressed appreciation for her many years of service to the city.
ADJOURNMENT On the order of the Chair, the meeting of the Legislative Policy Committee was adjourned at 6:52 p.m.
ATTEST:
____________________
Tamer Sabha
Recording Secretary
_________________________________
Councilmember Steve Madison, Chair
Legislative Policy Committee
NEW BUSINESS
2. APPROVAL OF SUPPORT FOR CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY BILL
2329 (FONG) – SURPLUS PROPERTY DISPOSITION – CITY OF
PASADENA PROPOSED AMENDMENTS AND AUTHORIZE THE
MAYOR TO SIGN LETTER OF SUPPORT*
NEW BUSINESS
3. BUDGET WORKSHOPS – FY 2027 RECOMMEND OPERATING
BUDGET
a. LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICES
DEPARTMENT*
b. CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE*
c. CITY COUNCIL*
d. OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK*
NEW BUSINESS
3. BUDGET WORKSHOPS – FY 2027 RECOMMEND OPERATING
BUDGET
a. LIBRARIES AND INFORMATION SERVICES
DEPARTMENT*
Department of Libraries and Information Services
Department of Libraries and
Information Services
FY 2027 Recommended
Operating Budget
Legislative Policy Committee
May 5, 2026
Presented by Tim McDonald, Library Director
and Chinua Obaze, Management Analyst III
Libraries and Information Services
Departmental Overview
2 Present
• 14 locations
• Full leadership team
• Decentralized operations
• Increased reliance on staff for access to collections and services • Temporary operations at Jefferson Elementary
• Home for community resilience and recovery in disaster’s aftermath
Libraries and Information Services
Major Achievements in FY 2026
• Phase 1 & 1A Central Library Retrofit and Renovations Project
• Community Engagement & Social Impact
• Workforce Development & Employee Engagement
• Urban Libraries Council Top Innovator Award
3 Libraries and Information Services
Major Initiatives in FY 2027
• Central Library Retrofit and Renovations Project – Phase 2 • Adoption of New Integrated Library System (ILS)
• Tenant Improvements at Hastings Branch Library
• Strategic Planning & Organizational Alignment
• Planning for Photovoltaic (PV) upgrades - (Solar)
4 Libraries and Information Services
Operations Outlook
• Community Engagement & Outreach
• Technology & Digital Services
• Facilities & Infrastructure
• Fiscal & Policy Environment
5 Libraries and Information Services
Appropriations by Category
6 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024 FY2025 FY2026 FY2027
Full-Time Equivalents (FTE) Adopted Adopted Adopted Adopted Adopted Proposed Libraries and Info SRVCS 99.98 99.98 87.7 87.7 84.7 85.2 Category
FY 2024
Actuals
FY 2025
Actuals
FY 2026
Adopted
FY 2027
Recommended
%
Change
Personnel $9,386,448 $9,651,180 $10,056,691 $10,604,086 5.4% Services & Supplies $2,447,545 $2,138,391 $2,727,714 $2,578,695 -5.5% Internal Services $3,976,806 $4,481,205 $3,872,759 $4,362,902 12.7% Debt Service $63,624 $95,804 - - Grand Total $15,874,423 $16,366,580 $16,657,164 $ 17,545,683 5.3% Libraries and Information Services
Significant Changes from FY 2026 Budget
7 • Personnel $547,395 (+5.4%)
• Increase reflects COLA and MOU-related salary and step adjustments. • Total Department FTE increased by .50 FTE
• Services & Supplies $149,019 (-5.5%)
• Budget realignment for purchase orders associated with 2.0 FTEs transferred to DoIT in FY 2026 – shifted from S&S to Internal Services category (Library Integrated Library System “ILS”)
• Internal Services $490,143 (+12.7%)
• In consultation with DoIT, transferred $142K from Services & Supplies to 863000 DoIT Application Basic.
Libraries and Information Services
Overview of Fund
8 Fund FY 2027
Beginning
Balance
Revenues Expenses FY 2027
Ending
Balance
FY 2028
Forecast
FY 2029
Forecast
FY 2030
Forecast
212 – Library
Services Fund
$13,370,356 $17,486,409 ($17,545,683) $13,311,082 $13,085,871 $12,658,540 $12,018,199 • Revenue sources – General Fund (78%), Library Special Tax Fund (20%), and other (2%)
• Library Special Tax Funds - $3,499,142
• Consistent with Library Special Tax Ordinance, 9% of the adopted budget is used for maintenance and growth of Library collection
• Cannot be used for Capital Improvements
Libraries and Information Services
Proposed Outcome-Based KPI: Library
Materials Use
• Outcome: Residents use Library materials to
support reading, learning, and personal
enrichment.
9 Libraries and Information Services
10 Circulation Trends and Year-over-Year
Change
Period FY23 FY24 FY25 FY24 YoY FY25 YoY
Q1 184,159 178,502 193,167 -3% 8%
Q2 165,061 172,774 171,059 5% -1%
Q3 161,904 172,675 151,948 7% -12%
Q4 166,920 183,416 183,994 10% 0.3%
FY Total 678,044 707,367 700,168 4% -1%
Libraries and Information Services
Questions
• Questions?
11 • Questions?
NEW BUSINESS
3. BUDGET WORKSHOPS – FY 2027 RECOMMEND OPERATING
BUDGET
b. CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE*
City Attorney/City Prosecutor
FY 2027 Recommended Operating
Budget
Legislative Policy Committee
May 5, 2026
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
FY 2026 Accomplishments
• Obtained dismissals and favorable results in trial and appellate courts, including tort, civil rights, and employment matters, saving the City substantial sums. • Handled over 120 lawsuits at any given time, majority handled by in-house attorneys. • Reviewed approximately 2,700 cases involving over 3,300 potential charges; prosecuted approximately 2,000 new cases in addition to managing multi-year cases. • Worked effectively with City departments, boards, commissions, and operating companies, handling a wide range of complex business and transactional matters, providing advice daily to minimize the City’s exposure to civil liability. • Successfully obtained preliminary injunction against Federal government challenging new conditions for grant funds to ensure the City continues to receive millions in federal funding to support City programs.
2 City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
FY 2026 Accomplishments (cont’d)
• Aggressively litigating lawsuit against So Cal Edison and defending the City from So Cal Edison’s Cross-Complaint.
• Secured Prop 47, Cohort 5, HOME grant to connect justice-involved unhoused individuals to housing, treatment, and long-term support over the next three years. • Community Police Oversight Commission (CPOC) developed its first informational flyer, onboarded three community-based organization committee members, and continued to provide logistics, coordination, and support for the CPOC work plan and its four ad hoc committees to advance established objectives. • Provided city-wide training in a wide range of subjects; successfully maintained fiscal responsibility through interdepartmental collaboration, management of litigation, claims, and review of appropriate insurance policy coverage requirements. 3 City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
Appropriations by Category
4 Category FY 2024
Actuals
FY 2025
Actuals
FY 2026
Adopted
FY 2027
Recommended
%
Change
Personnel 7,963,621 8,422,221 9,073,145 9,642,618 6.3%
Services & Supplies 816,076 750,426 965,079 1,014,007 5.1% HOME Grant 1,374,090
Outside Legal 5,050,447 4,625,014 2,600,000 1,570,000 -39.6% Internal Service Charges 726,146 681,398 724,751 859,735 18.6% Debt Service 41,636 75,169 0 0
Operating Expense 78,649 78,649 0 0
Department Total 14,676,575 14,632,877 13,362,975 14,460,450 8.2% City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
Significant Changes from FY 2026
Adopted Budget
• Personnel – Increased $569K (+6.3%)
• MOUs/COLA Adjustments $222K
• New limited-term position - HOME Grant Program $140K (to be reimbursed) • Pension/Medical/Benefits increase $207K
• Services and Supplies - Increased $393K (+11.0%)
• HOME Grant increase $1.374M (to be reimbursed)
• Outside Legal decrease $1.0M (reallocation to Fund 507) • CPI increases $19K
• Internal Service Charges - Increased $135K (+18.6%)
• Public Works IS increase $46K
• DOIT IS increase $82K
• Printing $7K
5 City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
Significant Changes from FY 2026
Adopted Budget (cont’d)
• Increased civil and prosecution responsibilities due to litigation trends and criminal justice system programs and legislation.
• Increased prosecution obligations, including managing City’s Community Mediation Program and implementing various diversion and other programs. • Increase in volume and complexity of public records requests and ensuring transparency by assisting City departments.
• Upcoming changes in California laws will likely result in increased obligations to develop procedures to comply.
• Continued support of CPOC implementation of workplan, annual report, and IPA; increase in contract costs associated with IPA.
6 City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
FY 2027 Priorities/Workplan
7 • Reassess legal costs and risks associated with Council and staff goals, especially where court decisions and/or changes in the law may inform certain approaches. • Continue to explore and identify ways to provide high-quality legal services in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.
• Continue to ensure transparency by assisting City departments in promptly and thoroughly responding to public records requests.
• Evaluate and develop, as appropriate, Restorative Justice Diversion Program. • Continue to provide training to City staff on PRA, risk mitigation, and changes in laws.
• Implement Prop 47, Cohort 5, Home Grant Program.
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
FY 2027 Priorities/Workplan (cont’d)
8 • Continue to support the work of the CPOC to further enhance, develop, and strengthen community-police relations.
• Manage the services of the IPA, including the release of public reports and the development of Police Department recommendations in collaboration with CPOC. • Work with City Manager’s Office regarding Citywide risk mitigation practices.
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
FY 2027 Key Performance Indicators
9 # Objectives/KPIs Council
Goal
FY 2025
Actual
FY 2026
Target
FY 2027
Target
1 Prepare and return ordinances within 60 days if so directed by the City Council. A 100% 100% 100% 2 Successful Prosecution Rate. A 90% 90% 90%
• The mission of the Mayor and City Council is to provide leadership to the community through the establishment of policies which enhance the quality of life for Pasadena residents, businesses, non-profit institutions and governmental agencies, other stakeholders, and maintain a strong and stable fiscal condition. • The City Attorney / City Prosecutor Department supports these goals through ensuring public safety and supporting and promoting the quality of life and the economy through its Prosecution and Oversight Commission Support Divisions and maintain fiscal responsibility and stability through its Civil Division.
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Department
Outside Legal Expense
• FY 2026: Outside Legal related to General Liability transferred to the General Liability Fund (507)
• FY 2027: $1M transferred from Outside Legal Fund 101 to Fund 507. 10 NEW BUSINESS
3. BUDGET WORKSHOPS – FY 2027 RECOMMEND OPERATING
BUDGET
c. CITY COUNCIL*
City Council
FY 2027 Recommended
Operating Budget
Legislative Policy Committee
May 5, 2026
City Council
2 FY 2026 Accomplishments
• Continued provision of exemplary municipal
services to which the public is accustomed;
• Adoption of balanced budget for the 14th
consecutive year;
• Maintained City’s AAA issuer credit rating with
Standard & Poor’s and AA+ with Fitch rating
agency, consistent with the Council’s goal to
maintain fiscal responsibility and stability;
• Maintained an IRS Section 115 trust for future
pension obligations and other post-employment
benefits;
City Council
3 FY 2026 Accomplishments
• Continued legacy land use planning effort on the
approximately 50 acres of recaptured land at the
heart of the City with the relinquishment of State
Route 710 northern stub; and
• Continued pursuit of both major and minor public
works improvements to preserve and expand the
City’s infrastructure and resources.
City Council
Appropriations by Category
4 Category
FY 2024
Actuals
FY 2025
Actuals
FY 2026
Adopted
FY 2027
Recommended % Change
Personnel 1,878,481 2,166,582 2,213,008 2,322,600 5.0%
Services & Supplies 570,076 594,020 982,926 1,043,514 6.2% Internal Srvc Chrg 462,627 474,978 549,864 600,051 9.1% Grand Total 2,911,184 3,235,580 3,745,798 3,966,165 5.9% Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) FY 2022
Adopted
FY 2023
Adopted
FY 2024
Adopted
FY 2025
Adopted
FY 2026
Adopted
FY 2027
Recommended
City Council 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00 18.00
City Council
Significant Changes from FY 2026
Adopted Budget
• Personnel costs increased by $109,592
(5.0%)
> Stipend, pension and benefit adjustments
• Services & Supplies increased by $60,588
(6.2%)
> New Office Setup, Operations and Security
Reimbursable Allowance
> Increase in General Expense Reimbursable
Allowance
• Internal Service Charges increased by
$50,187 (9.1%)
> Increases in BSFMD and DoIT IS charges
5 NEW BUSINESS
3. BUDGET WORKSHOPS – FY 2027 RECOMMEND OPERATING
BUDGET
d. OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK*
Office of the City Clerk
FY 2027 Operating Budget
Legislative Policy Committee
May 5, 2026
Office of the City Clerk
Major Accomplishments
• Assisted with the Committee on City Councilmember
Compensation:
> Provided information to convene and support the
formation of the Committee
> Established a timeline/scope and charge of review
> Facilitated application and selection of Committee
members
> Organized meetings and assisted in the staff work to
support the Committee
• Worked Collaboratively with CM’s and CA’s Offices to
implement Committee recommendations accepted by
City Council
> Final actions due to City Council in May 2026
2 Office of the City Clerk
• Coordinated the adoption of the City Council
Appointment Process by Ordinance
• Coordinated the adoption of the PRHB
Appointment Process by Resolution
• Facilitated Appointments to fill vacancies on
PRHB: two At Large Members; two Tenant
Members; and one Alt Tenant Member
• Prepared and Administered the Nomination
Process for June 2026 City Primary Election -
Districts 3, 5, and 7
3 Major Accomplishments
Office of the City Clerk
• Completed RFP Process for Mail Services
Equipment; and RFP Process for Electronic
Campaign/SEI Online Filing System
• Completed Offsite Storage Relocation of City
records from Eaton Canyon MASH Building back
to City Hall (All City Records Now On-site)
• Coordinated with Library and Public Works Depts
the permanent relocation of city-owned building
plans to City Hall
• Implemented ECMS Records Archiving System
upgrade, including citywide dept training
4 Major Accomplishments
Office of the City Clerk
Expense by Category
5 Category
FY 2024
Actuals
FY 2025
Actuals
FY 2026
Adopted
FY 2027
Recommended % Change
Personnel 1,806,616 1,947,981 2,017,638 2,082,843 3.2%
Services & Supplies 1,078,217 502,060 930,521 928,657 -0.2% Internal Srvc Chrg 681,232 891,890 839,162 902,064 7.5% Debt Service 0 18,219 0 0 0.0%
Grand Total 3,566,065 3,360,151 3,787,321 3,913,564 3.3% Full-Time Equivalents (FTE) FY 2022
Adopted
FY 2023
Adopted
FY 2024
Adopted
FY 2025
Adopted
FY 2026
Adopted
FY 2027
Recommended
City Clerk 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00
• Majority of Personnel growth is related to MOU/salary adjustments, pension and medical premium increases.
• Internal Service Charges reflect inflationary growth in DoIT network support and BSFMD housekeeping services.
• Services and Supplies remain flat.
Office of the City Clerk
Expense by Division
6 Division
FY 2024
Actuals
FY 2025
Actuals
FY 2026
Adopted
FY 2027
Recommended % Change
Official Records – Admin. 1,600,331 1,745,673 1,836,477 1,872,373 2.0% Records Management 462,794 483,016 604,475 624,466 3.3% Elections 948,122 486,103 567,937 568,070 0.0%
Mail Services 554,819 645,359 778,432 848,655 9.0%
Grand Total 3,566,065 3,360,151 3,787,321 3,913,564 3.3% Office of the City Clerk
FY 2027 Priorities / Work Plan
Key Issues
• Prepare and Administer the Nomination and Election
Process for November 2026 General Election – PUSD
Districts 1, 3, 5, and 7
Strategies
• Prepare Election Resolutions, Notices, Webpage,
and Outreach
• Prepare Nomination materials and presentations
• Process candidates for the Board of Education
• Work with Los Angeles County on Election
Administration efforts in Pasadena
• Provide support and information to Pasadena
voters
7 Office of the City Clerk
FY 2027 Priorities / Work Plan
Key Issues
• Prepare and coordinate the placement of one or
more ballot measures on the November 2026
General Election ballot
Strategies
• Prepare Election Resolutions, Notices, Webpage,
and Outreach
• Work with Los Angeles County on Election
Administration efforts in Pasadena
• Provide support and information to Pasadena
voters
8 Office of the City Clerk
FY 2027 Priorities / Work Plan
Key Issues
• Present information on an update to the Citywide
Records Management Program
Strategies
• Review draft policy with Legislative Policy
Committee for feedback
• Prepare and present finalized policy for full City
Council review and consideration
• Work with City Attorney’s Office to prepare a
resolution adopt updated records policy
9 Office of the City Clerk
FY 2027 Priorities / Work Plan
Key Issues
• Present information on a potential lobbyist
registration ordinance
Strategies
• Prepare and submit framework for Legislative Policy
Committee for review
• Prepare and present finalized policy for full City
Council review and consideration
• Work with City Attorney’s Office to prepare an
ordinance to codify process in the Pasadena
Municipal Code
10 Office of the City Clerk
Key Performance Indicators
• Outcome – Track PRA requests received by City
Clerk’s Office for timeliness of responses under the
law, and to ensure members of the public receive
communication quickly and efficiently from City
Clerk staff regarding open/pending requests.
11 KPI FY 2027
Target
Number of PRA requests received and timeliness
in responding to requests within 10 days 100%
Office of the City Clerk
11 Questions/Comments
INFORMATION ITEMS
6. REVIEW OF RECENT CITY ADVOCACY LETTERS*
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0 ^
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
April 8, 2026
The Honorable John Harabedian
California State Assembly
1021 0 Street, Room 437
Sacramento, CA 95 814
Re: AB 2576—Transit-oriented development—Support (As Amended March 19,2026) Dear Assemblymember Harabedian,
On behalf of the City of Pasadena, I am writing in Support of Assembly Bill (AB) 2576, which would make critical amendments to existing transit-oriented development law to better protect historic resources.
Pasadena is synonymous with our rich cultural resources and decades-long commitment to historic preservation. This commitment is rooted in our community's genuine desire to protect its most cherished historic resources. The City has been very concerned that SB 79 (Wiener, 2025) does not appropriately protect historic resources-in particular, SB79 does not protect historic resources that are listed on a state or national register but does on a local register. In Pasadena, several of our most significant historic districts, which include Old Pasadena, the Playhouse District, and the Civic Center, are listed only on the National Register of Historic Places and not on a local register. It is of vital importance to Pasadena that these historic resources be expressly protected.
AB 2576 directly addresses this concern by defining "historic resource" to include resources listed on a local, state, or national historic register, and by expressly including historic districts and local landmark districts within that definition. The bill also removes the 10% cap on the combined area of exempt historic resource sites within a transit-oriented development zone, a provision that forced cities to choose which historic resources to protect rather than protecting all of them. In Pasadena, multiple historic districts fall within one-halfmile of A Line Metro stations, and these changes will ensure that all qualifying resources are protected without an arbitrary area limitation.
100 North Garfield Avenue
(626) 744-4311 Fax
Pasadena, CA 91109
(626) 744-3921
AB 2576—Transit-oriented development—Support (As Amended March 19,2026) April 8, 2026
Pasadena is acutely aware of the statewide housing crisis and acknowledges that significant steps must be taken to address housing production. In recent years, Pasadena has undertaken many efforts to increase housing supply near transit as part of a more holistic community planning
strategy, while protecting our historic resources. AB 2576 continues those efforts, allowing us to continue pushing forward on housing while honoring our commitment to historic preservation.
For these reasons, we support AB 2576 and thank you for your leadership on this very important issue. Should you have any questions, please contact our legislative advocate Kyra Ross with California Public Policy Group at (916) 804-5428.
Sincerely,
^ n-
ec:
VICTOR M. GORDO
Mayor
City Council Members
Miguel Marquez, City Manager
The Honorable Sasha Renee Perez, California State Senator Kyra Ross, California Public Policy Group
Sizgs
W^M
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
April 23, 2026
California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection
P.O. Box 944246
Sacramento, CA 94244-2460
Email: [email protected]
Re: Pasadena's Position on Zone Zero Regulations
Dear Chair Terry O'Brien and Members of the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, On behalf of the residents of Pasadena, we appreciate the opportunity to provide formal comment on the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection's proposed statewide implementation of Zone Zero, developed in response to Assembly Bill 3074 and the directives of Executive Order N-18-25.
The City of Pasadena strongly supports the State's goal of enhancing community wildfire resilience. However, we urge the Board to adopt an approach that appropriately accounts for regional differences and allows flexibility for local control. Preserving local discretion is essential for ensuring that regulations are both effective and feasible within diverse jurisdictions.
As your Board considers final adoption of the Zone Zero regulations, Pasadena respectfully urges the incorporation of Vegetation Option 4 and Tree Option 2, or a suitable alternative that preserves necessary local control, as outlined in the October 23, 2025, draft regulation. These options provide necessary flexibility while maintaining rigorous safety standards.
Vegetation Option 4 - Well-Maintained Plants Allowed
Pasadena supports Vegetation Option 4, which permits well-maintained plants and potted vegetation in Zone 0 while prohibiting dead or dying plants, needles, leaves, weeds, and combustible mulches. This option maintains strong ember-resistance requirements while allowing homeowners to preserve limited vegetation that can be safely managed, reducing both compliance burdens and unintended aesthetic or environmental impacts. 100 North Garfield Avemie • Pasadena, CA 91109
(626) 744-4311 Fax (626) 744-3921
Pasadena's Position on Zone Zero Regulations
April 23, 2026
Tree Option 2 - Well-Maintained Trees with Clearances
Pasadena supports Tree Option 2, which allows well-maintained trees with branches that must be ten feet away from chimneys. This approach maintains essential wildfire-resilience standards while still allowing the retention of healthy specimen trees. The City supports this option because it preserves vital environmental and community benefits while maintaining safety, avoiding unnecessary removals that could harm biodiversity, reduce canopy cover, or conflict with long-standing local tree ordinances.
Preserve Local Authority within the Local Responsibility Area (LRA) We also strongly urge the Board to allow local control within LRAs, consistent with the "alternatives" language currently included in the draft rule. Our experience has shown that a one-size-fits-all approach to defensible space does not appropriately account for local environmental conditions, longstanding urban forestry practices, or community-specific fire mitigation strategies. Local discretion ensures defensible space policies remain effective, enforceable, and aligned with Pasadena's codes, environmental protections, and community expectations.
(;i
Pasadena supports science-based wildfire prevention policies, including the removal of combustible materials, use ofnon-combustible construction features, and thoughtful vegetation and tree management. We respectfully request that the Board of Forestry adopt Vegetation Option 4 and Tree Option 2, or a comparable alternative, and maintain local flexibility for LRA jurisdictions to implement compliance through their fire departments.
We believe the recommended options strike an appropriate balance between statewide safety objectives and the need for local implementation. We appreciate the collaboration that has taken place among experts, local agencies, and stakeholders, and Pasadena stands ready to continue working with the Board as you finalize these important regulations. Thank you for your consideration of our recommendations and for your continued leadership in advancing wildfire resilience across California.
Sincerely,
/M^ 1^
rCTOR M. Gi
Mayor
RDO
ec: Board Clerk, Board of Forestry and Fire Protection
Matthew E. Hawkesworth, Interim City Manager
Chad Augustin, Fire Chief, Pasadena Fire Department
INFORMATION ITEMS
7. PAST AGENDAS FOR CITY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS*