OPENING:
CLOSED SESSION
Councilmember Madison
arrived at 5:19 p.m.
Councilmember Hampton
arrived at 5:20 p.m.
CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
May 11, 2026-5:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chamber
Vice Mayor Rivas called the regular meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton, Madison, and Mayor Gordo) On the order of the Vice Mayor, the regular meeting recessed at 5:01 p.m. to discuss the following closed session items:
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Property: 63 South Raymond Avenue (V), 36 South Fair Oaks Avenue (W), 48 South Fair Oaks Avenue (X), 55 South Raymond Avenue (Y) and 42 South Fair Oaks Avenue (Z)
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
Agency negotiator: Matthew Hawkesworth
Negotiating parties: Negotiating Party: May Mikyung Han for Woorigah, Inc. (V) Kapil Adhikari for Himalayan Group, Inc. (W), Sataporn Wongthaicharoen for 9SIAM, LLC. (X), Amara E.
Barroeta for ALRA 05, LLC. (Y) and Nghi Hue Duong for N & N Beauty Salon, LLC. (Z)
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY
NEGOTIATORS pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 Property: Property Location: 4800 Oak Grove Drive
Under negotiation: Price and terms of payment
Agency negotiator: Matthew Hawkesworth
Negotiating parties: Diana Chen - CalTech-Jet Propulsion Laboratory
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency Designated Representatives: Matthew Hawkesworth
and Tiffany Jacobs-Quinn
Employee Organization: Pasadena Police Officers Association The above closed session items were discussed, with no reportable action at this time.
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding pending litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of Case: Building a Better Pasadena, LLC v. City of Pasadena, etal.
Los Angeles Superior Court Case No.: 26STCP01396
CONSIDERATION OF INITIATION OF LITIGATION pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4): One potential case Council Minutes105/11/2026
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ROLL CALL:
Councitmembers:
Staff:
CEREMONIAL MATTERS
PUBLIC COMMENT ON
MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding significant exposure to potential litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2): One potential case The above closed session items were not discussed.
On the order of the Vice Mayor, the regular meeting reconvened at 6:11 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was led byCouncilmemberLyon.
Mayor Victor M. Gordo (absent)
Vice Mayor Jessica Rivas
Councilmember Rick Cole
Councilmember Tyron Hampton
Councilmember Justin Jones
Councilmember Jason Lyon
Councilmember Steve Madison
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Interim City Manager Matthew E. Hawkesworth
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Michele Beal Bagneris
City Clerk Mark Jomsky
Lola Osborne, Deputy Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services, spoke on the Trailblazer Award and introduced Human Relations Commission Chair Jonathan Horton and Commissioner Nat Nehdar, who presented the Trailblazer Awards to Nikki High - Octavia Butler Books, All Shirmohammadi - restaurant owner and sponsor for the Pasadena Police Department luncheon, and Altadena Girls - youth organization supporting youth impacted by the Eaton Fire, for exhibiting positive human relations in the community. Vice Mayor Rivas presented proclamations on behalf of the Mayor and City Council recognizing the work of these individuals and youths.
Councilmember Lyon reported that he and Councilmember Jones, as well as several Arts and Culture Commissioners, accepted the Art City Leadership Award on behalf of the City of Pasadena from ArtPAC, an organization that advocates for public spending on arts.
Michael Feinstein, Santa Monica resident, urged the City to support proportional representation for California legislative elections, and provided comments on a mixed system of ranked-choice voting.
The following individuals expressed opposition to the Arroyo Seco Water Reuse project, requesting that the public comment period for the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) be extended by 60 days, and for the City Council to hold a public hearing prior to the deadline, and/or provided other related comments:
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CONSENT CALENDAR
City Manager/ Executive
Director
Barbara Eisenstein, South Pasadena resident
Roy Payan, Los Angeles resident
Yael Pardess, Los Angeles resident
Constance Villavaso, residence not stated
Clara Sotis, residence not stated
Ofelia Pastor, residence not stated
Angela Gladding, residence not stated
Yadi, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding the Pasadena Police Department's surveillance technologies and advocated for the City to implement guardrails and restrictions on purchasing future technologies.
Humaira Afzal, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding the Pasadena Police Department's surveillance technologies and encouraged residents to attend upcoming Public Safety Committee meetings.
William Meurer, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding exposure of microwave radiation and screen addiction, and advocated for the elimination of wi-fi and making mandatory vaccines optional.
Jeff Cyrulewski, Pasadena resident, urged the City to promote the City's bike network to increase usage of bike lanes.
Aleks Giragosian, Pasadena resident, announced details for the upcoming Pasadena Armenian Festival on Saturday May 30, 2026 and invited the City Council and public to attend.
Lisa Quinn, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns that proper public notice procedures were not followed prior to the removal of mature trees in the Arroyo.
Nicolas Rabb, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding data-driven policing infrastructures notably Flock cameras and potential data centers.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A FIVE-
YEAR CONTRACT WITH LOS ANGELES TRUCK CENTERS LLC
DBA VELOCITY VEHICLE GROUP FOR THE PURCHASE OF
VEHICLE WARNING, SAFETY, AND WORK LIGHTING
EQUIPMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $323,080 (Public
Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required; Council Minutes305/11/2026
(2) Award contract to lowest and best bid dated March 30, 2026, submitted by Los Angeles Truck Centers, LLC in response to specifications for Vehicle Warning, Safety, and Work Lighting Equipment, authorize the City Manager to enter into a five-year contract for an amount not-to-exceed of $323,080, which includes the base contract amount of $307,695 and a contingency of $15,385 to provide any necessary change orders (Contract No. 33624); and (3) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments to the subject contract including durational extensions.
ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE FINAL TRACT MAP NO.
082331 FOR CREATION OF NINE AIR PARCELS FOR
RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM PURPOSES AT 176 NORTH
CATALINA AVENUE (Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the Final Map is not a project under Section 15268(b)(3) of the State of California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines as a ministerial action, and that the project was previously determined Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (Section 15332, Class 32, In-Fill Development Projects), and that no further CEQA approvals are required for the final tract map;
(2) Adopt a resolution to approve Final Tract Map No. 082331 for the creation of nine air parcels for residential condominium purposes (Resolution No. 10188); and
(3) Authorize the City Clerk to execute the Certificate on the Tract Map showing the City's approval of said Map.
Recommendation of the Hearing Officer: Final Tract Map No. 082331 (Attachment A of the agenda report), for the creation of nine air parcels for residential condominium purposes, was reviewed and approved in tentative form by the Subdivision Hearing Officer on June 19, 2019. The exercise of the right granted must be commenced within three years, or by June 19, 2023. The first submittal of the final map review was submitted in May 2022.
Jill Shook, Pasadena resident, advocated for further lowering fees to support affordable accessory dwelling units.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH HOUALLA ENTERPRISES LTD., DBA METRO
BUILDERS & ENGINEERS GROUP, LTD., FOR THE
MODERNIZATION OF BUSCH GARDEN AND ROSEMONT
SEWER PUMP STATIONS PROJECT FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $3,794,453 (Public Works Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find the contract proposed in the agenda report to be categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 6, Chapter 3, Article 19, §15302, Replacement or Reconstruction, Class 2, (c), and that there are no features that distinguish this Council Minutes405/11/2026
project from others in the exempt class, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances;
(2) Award contract to the lowest and best bid dated April 7, 2026 submitted by Metro Builders & Engineers' Group, Ltd., in response to the bid specifications for the Modernization of Busch Garden and Rosemont Sewer Pump Stations project, authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract for a total not-to-exceed amount of $3,794,453 which includes the base contract amount of $3,299,524 and a contingency of $494,929 to provide for unforeseen change orders (Contract No. 33657); and
(3) Authorize the City Manager to approve within contract authority, amendments to the subject contract including durational extensions.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH YES ENERGY, LLC FOR COST PRODUCTION
MODELING SOFTWARE FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$1,369,040 FOR UP TO FIVE YEARS (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b); and (2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as the result of a competitive selection process, as specified by Section 4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with Yes Energy, LLC for Cost Production Modeling Software in an amount not-to-exceed $1,369,040 which includes a base contract amount of $748,989 for a three-year term, plus contingency in the amount of $46,000 for any additional services; and two optional one-year terms in the amounts of $283,124 and $290,927, respectively, subject to approval by the City Manager. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(F) contracts for professional or unique services. (Contract No. 33652)
City Clerk Jomsky reported that one letter expressing opposition and urging the City Council to reject the proposed contract was received by the City Clerk's office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
In response to Councilmember Madison's inquiry regarding the public correspondence received regarding this item, David Reyes, General Manager of Water and Power reported that the proposed contract extends the City's partnership with Yes Energy and Encompass Software for modeling that is needed as the City looks to diversify its green energy portfolio.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH J HARRIS INDUSTRIAL WATER
TREATMENT, INC., TO FURNISH AND DELIVER REVERSE
OSMOSIS, DEGASIFICATION AND ION EXCHANGE SYSTEM
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SUPPORT SERVICES FOR A GRAND TOTAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $413,931 FOR UP TO THREE YEARS (Water & Power
Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b); and (2) Award contract to lowest responsive and responsible bid dated February 20, 2026, submitted by J hlarris Industrial Water Treatment Inc. ("J Harris") to furnish and deliver reverse osmosis, degasification and ion exchange system support services at the Glenarm Power Plant and authorize the City Manager to enter into a three-year contract for an amount not-to-exceed $413,931. (Contract No. 33617)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH POWERFLEX SYSTEMS LLC FOR BACK-
OFFICE SOFTWARE AND OPERATIONS SUPPORT FOR
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR UP
TO SEVEN YEARS FOR A GRAND TOTAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $1,896,995 (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council (1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required; and (2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as a result of a competitive selection process, as specified by Section 4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with PowerFlex Systems LLC ("PowerFlex") for Back-Office Software and Operations Support for Electric Vehicle ("EV") Charging Infrastructure for up to seven years for a grand total amount not to exceed $1,896,995, which includes the base contract amount of $1,120,078 for five years, and the option for two additional one-year extensions at the discretion of the City Manager, for an amount not-to-exceed $776,917. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002 (F), contracts for professional or unique services. (Contract No. 33498)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH HYDROVIDA TO PROVIDE CHEMICAL
WATER TREATMENT SERVICES FOR THE GLENARM POWER
PLANT FOR A GRAND TOTAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$322,500 FOR UP TO FIVE YEARS (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b); and Council Minutes605/11/2026
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract, as a result of the competitive selection process, as specified by Section
4.08.047 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, with Hydrovida to provide chemical water treatment services at the Glenarm Power Plant for three years with the option for two additional one-year extensions subject to the approval of the City Manager for an annual amount of $64,500 and a grand total amount not-to-exceed $322,500, which includes a base contract amount of $193,500. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter 1002(F) contracts for professional or unique services. (Contract No.33618)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH KOPPL PIPELINE SERVICES, LLC TO
PROVIDE WATER MAIN LINE STOPPING SERVICES FOR FIVE
YEARS FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $1,551,000 (Water
& Power Dept):
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council (1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065 and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378;
(2) Award contract to lowest and best bid dated December 12, 2025, submitted by Koppl Pipeline Services, LLC ("Koppl") in response to the project plans and specifications for Water Main Line Stopping Services, authorize the City Manager to enter into a five- year contract for an amount not-to-exceed $1,551,000, which includes the base contract amount of $1,410,000 and a contingency of $141,000 to provide for any necessary change orders (Contract No. 33566); and
(3) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments to the subject contract including durational extensions.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH MATT-CHLOR INC., TO PROVIDE CHLORINE
EQUIPMENT PARTS, SERVICE, AND REPAIRS FOR FIVE
YEARS FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $465,751 (Water &
Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council (1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065 and State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3) and 15378(b)(2);
(2) Award contract to lowest and best bid dated August 15, 2025, submitted by Matt-Chlor, Inc. ("Matt-Chlor") in response to the project plans and specifications for Chlorine Equipment Parts, Service, and Repairs, authorize the City Manager to enter into a five-year contract for an amount not-to-exceed $465,751, which includes the base Council Minutes705/11/2026
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contract amount of $423,410 and a contingency of $42,341 to provide for any necessary change orders (Contract No. 33565); and (3) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments to the subject contracts including durational extensions.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO
CONTRACTS WITH 72 HOUR, LLC AND LOS ANGELES TRUCK
CENTERS, LLC TO PURCHASE TWO PICKUP TRUCKS, ONE
CRANE TRUCK, ONE VALVE TRUCK, ONE FLATBED TRUCK,
AND THREE DUMP TRUCKS FOR A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $1,939,410 (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required; (2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with 72 Hour, LLC ("72 Hour") for the purchase of one Electric Vehicle ("EV") pickup truck for Pasadena Water and Power Department ("PWP"), in an amount not-to-exceed $107,800, which includes the base contract amount of $98,000 and a contingency of $9,800 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(1-1) (Contracts with other governmental entities or their contractors for labor, material, supplies, or services) (P.O. per staff);
(3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with 72 Hour for the purchase of one one-ton Internal Combustion Engine ("ICE") pickup truck for PWP, in an amount not-to-exceed $96,250, which includes the base contract amount of $87,500 and a contingency of $8,750 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(H) (Contracts with other governmental entities or their contractors for labor, material, supplies, or services) (P.O. per staff); (4) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with 72 Hour for the purchase of one ICE crane truck for PWP, in an amount not- to-exceed $247,940, which includes the base contract amount of $225,400 and a contingency of $22,540 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(H) (Contracts with other governmental entities or their contractors for tabor, material, supplies, or services) (P.O. perstafO;
(5) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with 72 Hour for the purchase of one ICE valve truck for PWP, in an amount not- to-exceed $249,700, which includes the base contract amount of $227,000 and a contingency of $22,700 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(H) (Contracts with other governmental entities or their contractors for labor, material, supplies, or services) (P.O. per staff);
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(6) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with Los Angeles Truck Centers, LLC ("LA Truck") for the purchase of one EV flatbed truck for PWP, in an amount not-to-exceed $235,180, which includes the base contract amount of $213,800 and a contingency of $21,380 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(H) (Contracts with other governmental entities or their contractors for labor, material, supplies, or services) (P.O. per staff); (7) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract with LA Truck for the purchase of three CNG dump trucks for PWP, in an amount not-to-exceed $1,002,540, which includes the base contract amount of $911,400 and a contingency of $91,140 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter Section 1002(H) (Contracts with other governmental entities or their contractors for labor, material, supplies, or services) (P.O. per staff);
(8) Grant the recommended contracts an exemption from the Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section 4.08.049(8) contracts for which the City's best interests are served (P.O. per staff); and
(9) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments to the subject contracts including durational extensions.
REJECT ALL BIDS FOR INDUSTRIAL STORAGE RACK
SYSTEMS (Water & Power Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080(b)(5) (projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves) and Section 15270 of the State CEQA Guidelines; and
(2) Reject all bids received by March 12, 2026, in response to the Invitation for Bids for Industrial Storage System Racks.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ACCEPT THE YOUTH
SERVICE CORPS (YSC) GRANT AWARD OF $1,500,000 FROM
CALIFORNIA VOLUNTEERS AND TO ENTER INTO A
SUBCONTRACT WITH PASADENA CITY COLLEGE FOR AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $250,000 TO PROVIDE
RECRUITMENT SERVICES AND CAREER COUNSELING (Office
of the City Manager)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c) and 15378(b);
(2) Authorize the City Manager to accept a grant award from the Governor's Office of Service and Community Engagement/California Volunteers for the Youth Service Corps (YSC) Program in the Council Minutes905/11/2026
amount of $1,500,000 for the term April 13, 2026, through December 31, 2027 (Contract No. 24,421); and
(3) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a subcontract with Pasadena City College (PCC) to provide recruitment, wrap-around services, and career counseling for the Youth Service Corps program in an amount not-to-exceed $250,000 over the grant term.
PUBLIC MEETING: FISCAL YEAR 2027 RECOMMENDED
SCHEDULE OF TAXES, FEES, AND CHARGES (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15273 (Rates, Tolls, Fares, and Charges); and
(2) After conducting a public hearing on May 18, 2026, adopt the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges.
FINANCE COMMITTEE: AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO
ENTER INTO A FUNDING AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS
ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION
AUTHORITY (METRO) TO ACCEPT METRO PROPOSITION C
FULFILLMENT FUNDS FOR UNPROGRAMMED SURFACE
TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM-LOCAL (STP-L) IN THE
AMOUNT OF $418,646 FOR THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL AT DEL MAR
BOULEVARD AND KINNELOA AVENUE PROJECT AND AMEND
THE FY 2026 CIP BUDGET TO APPROPRIATE $418,646
(Transportation Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15301; (2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a funding agreement with Metro to receive Proposition C fulfillment funds for unprogrammed STP-L balance in the amount of $418,646 and execute any subsequent agreements regarding this grant award (Contract No. 33678); and
(3) Amend the Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Budget to recognize and appropriate $418,646 in STP-L Proposition C fulfillment funds to the Traffic Signal at Del Mar Boulevard and Kinneloa Avenue Project (75922). (Budget
Amendment No. 2026-34)
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE: SUPPORT FOR
CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY BILL 2329 (FONG) - SURPLUS
PROPERTY DISPOSITION - CITY OF PASADENA PROPOSED
AMENDMENTS AND AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN
LETTER OF SUPPORT (Office of the City Manager)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is categorically not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act Council Minutes1005/11/2026
City Council
APPOINTMENTS,
REAPPOINTMENTS, &
RESIGNATIONS
City Clerk/ Secretary
CLAIMS RECEIVED AND
FILED
(CEQA) pursuant to Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections
15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required;
(2) Take a position of support, if amended, of California Assembly Bill 2329 to clarify applicability to Pasadena properties, strengthen tenant protections, enable administrative cost recovery, and standardize procedures for valuation and property; and, (3) Authorize the Mayor to send letters to the appropriate authorities stating the City's position.
APPOINTMENT OF JEFF CYRULEWSKI TO THE
TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMISSION (Mayor
Nomination)
APPOINTMENT OF CARL FORD TO THE OLD PASADENA
PARKING METER ZONE ADVISORY COMMISSION (At Large
Nomination/Lessee/District 6)
APPOINTMENT OF BETSY MITCHELL TO THE ROSE BOWL
AQUATICS CENTER BOARD (City Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF HARVEY CORDNER TO THE CODE
ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2026
(District 4 Nomination)
REAPPOINTMENT OF ELLIE PODWAY TO THE CODE
ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2026 (At
Large Nomination/District 4)
RESIGNATION OF CASEY JAGUSCH FROM THE
ACCESSIBILITY & DISABILITY COMMISSION (District 2
Nomination)
Claim No. Claimant Claim Amount
2026-0261 Erin A. Hightower $ 10,000.00+
2026-0262 Pronto Insurance 6,957.97
2026-0263 Vicente Rodriguez Rodriguez 35,000.00+
2026-0264 Christina Terrazas 10,000.00+
2026-0265 Mercury Insurance Company 10,000.00+
a/s/o Orlando Rodriguez
2026-0266 The Estate of Kenny Lau, by and 35,000.00+
through its successor-in-interest
Yui Sang Lau and Wai Fan
Chan, Yui Sang Lau, individually,
and Wai Fan Chan, individually
2026-0267 Maria Sandoval Balvaneda 10,000.00+
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PUBLIC HEARING SET
n
MOTION:
PUBLIC HEARINGS
May 18, 2026, 6:00 p.m. - Consideration of a Delayed Effectuation Ordinance, for Certain Sites, as Permitted under the Abundant & Affordable Homes Near Transit Act (SB 79)
May 18, 2026, 6:00 p.m. - Appeal of the Design Commission's Approval of an Application for Consolidated Design Review (DHP2026-00073), 600 N. Rosemead Boulevard
May 18, 2026, 6:00 p.m. -Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA) Hearing and Adopt a Resolution for the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA) for the Benefit of 600 North Rosemead, LP (or an Affiliate) Located at 600 Rosemead Boulevard
May 18, 2026, 6:00 p.m. - Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA) Hearing and Adopt a Resolution for the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA) for the Benefit of Colorado Crest, LP Located at 1756-1776 East Colorado Boulevard
June 8, 2026, 6:00 p.m. - Adoption of the Pasadena 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan City Clerk Jomsky reported that one letter expressing opposition to Item 4 and urging the City Council to reject the proposed contract was received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record.
It was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by
Councilmember Cole, to approve all items on the Consent Calendar. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING: FISCAL YEAR 2027 CITY
MANAGER'S RECOMMENDED OPERATING BUDGET (Finance
Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council (1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Sections 15060(c) and 15378(b); and
(2) Receive public comment and continue this public hearing to each subsequent regular meeting of the City Council at 6:00 p.m., until June 15, 2026, or such other date as the City Council may determine, at which time the City Council will be asked to close the public hearing and adopt the FY 2027 Recommended Operating Budget.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that one letter advocating for additional appropriations for interim housing, permanent supportive housing, and to support a year-round bad weather shelter in the City, were received by the City Clerk's office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
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MOTION:
REPORTS AND
COMMENTS FROM
COUNCIL COMMITTEES
Legislative Policy
Committee
Sonia Berndt, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns
regarding the proposed FY2027 Operating Budget for the
Housing Department and advocated for the City to utilize general fund reserves to support housing programs and
services.
Yadi, Pasadena resident, urged the City Council to prioritize investments in housing, health, and emergency response
ser/ices instead of surveillance technologies for the Police Department.
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Masuda, to continue the public hearing to May 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Mayor Gordo)
APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CITY'S INVESTMENT
POLICY (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as defined in section 15378(b)(4) of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required for the project; and
(2) Approve the suggested amendment to the City's Investment Policy as described in the agenda report.
Vice Mayor Rivas provided introductory comments and reported on the discussion that occurred at the Legislative Policy Committee at two committee meetings.
Vie Erganian, Deputy Finance Director, provided a Powerpoint presentation on the item, reporting on the City's investment policy objectives, as well as the recent 2021 amendment to the City's investment policy to incorporate Environmental, Social, and Governance ("ESG") standards in the City's investment strategies.
He noted that the City is not invested in companies that engage in the production of fossil fuels, weapons manufacturing, tobacco, or private prisons.
In response to Councilmember Madison's inquiry regarding whether staff had reviewed state and federal anti-boycott legislation to ensure the proposed actions would not create legal or funding issues, Interim City Manager Hawkesworth reported that a review had been conducted by staff, and that the proposed action would remain in compliance with the California Public Contracting Code 2010 Subsection C2 as cited in the agenda report.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that 10 letters were submitted in opposition to the City Council taking any action related to boycott, divestment, and sanction BDS within the City, and/or modifying Council Minutes1305/11/2026
proposed environmental, social, and governance policies that include any anti-lsrael investment boycott, one chain letter submitted by 1,469 individuals advocating for the City Council to reject any proposed divestment resolution, one chain letter submitted by 209 individuals advocating for the City Council to support and expand the City's ethical investment resolution to include divestment from Israel, one chain letter submitted by 30 individuals advocating for the City Council to clearly state on record that it will not adopt any BDS- related measures or policies that single out Israel, one chain letter submitted by 21 individuals advocating for the City not to include any reference to BDS in Israel as part of any proposed ESG resolution, one chain letter submitted by 76 individuals in support of an Ethical Investment Resolution that includes divestment from Israel and recognizing the conflict in the Middle East, and one petition reported to include over 600 signatures in support of an ethical investment policy and/or providing comments related to divesting from Israel, which were all received by the City Clerk's office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record.
The following individuals provided comments on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the Middle East, advocated for divestment from specific companies doing business in Israel, urged the City Council to adopt the update to the City' ethical investment policy, and/or provided related comments:
Kate E., Pasadena resident
Dr. Lena AISarraf, Pasadena resident
Marianne Albina, Pasadena for Palestine
Bert Newton, Pasadena resident
Hedab Tarifi, Pasadena for Palestine
Vinnie de Stefano, Pasadena resident
Michael Flynn, Pasadena resident
Levent Akbarut, Pasadena resident
Rob Muthiah, Pasadena resident
Brooklyn Kleckley, Pasadena resident
Dylan Barren, Pasadena resident
Mouna Stewart, Pasadena resident
Charlotte Bianteri, Pasadena resident
Niel Kohanski, Pasadena resident
Lucy Pettit, Pasadena resident
Zayna Altoubad, Pasadena resident
Jennifer Vaughan, Pasadena resident
Edmond Mandin, Los Angeles resident
Sabrina Jimenez, Pasadena resident
Ruth Landsberger, Pasadena resident
Estee Chandler, Pasadena resident
Lucinda Wills, Pasadena resident
Bailey Payne, Pasadena resident
Eli Grossman, Pasadena resident
Kavah Naeeni, Pasadena resident
Council Minutes1405/11/2026
Rita Kapadia, Pasadena resident
Nicolas Rabb, Pasadena resident
Taylor Ermonian, Pasadena Mennonite Church
Humaira Afzal, Pasadena resident
Daryn Copeland, Jewish Voice for Peace
Brian Biery, Pasadena resident
Anthony Manousos, Pasadena resident
Teresa W., Pasadena resident
Jacob Harkey, Pasadena for Palestine
The following individuals spoke in opposition to any BDS effort, expressed concerns regarding impacts of such actions on the Pasadena Jewish community, advocated for the City to prioritize local matters instead of foreign policy, spoke in support of the action taken by the Legislative Policy Committee which excluded references to Israel, and/or provided related comments:
Alexandrea Douglas, Pasadena resident
Jeffrey Landau, La Canada resident
Erich Schlecht, Pasadena Jewish Temple Center
Lynne Sullivan, Pasadena resident
Robert Stirbl, Pasadena resident
Dennis McNamara, Pasadena resident
Carl Selkin, Pasadena resident
Stuart Miller, Pasadena resident
Gail Brewer, Pasadena resident
Jesse Duker, Jewish Federation of Greater San Gabriel
Valley
Veronica Anderson, Pasadena Jewish Temple Center
Peter Braun, Pasadena resident
Steven Steinberg, La Canada resident
Jason Moss, Jewish Federation of Greater San Gabriel
Valley
dark Linstone, Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center
The following individuals expressed support for the proposed amendment to the City's investment policy as recommended by the Legislative Policy Committee, and noted that the advocacy for the amendment is in opposition to investments tied to genocide rather than specific states, and/or provided similar comments:
Eric Pettit, Pasadena resident
Teri Stein, Pasadena resident
Jill Shook, Pasadena resident
Nayeli Hivner, Clergy Community Coalition
Anne-Marie Otey, Pasadena resident
Amy Korell, Pasadena resident
Bob Brodsky, Pasadena resident, provided comments on the current crisis ongoing in Iran.
Council Minutes1505/11/2026
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Robert Nolty, Pasadena resident, advocated for the City's ethical investment policy to mention genocide, urged the Fire & Police Retirement Board to act accordingly by divesting, and expressed opposition to mentioning Israel or Palestine in the resolution.
Emmanuel Najera, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns that the prolonged debate regarding the matter creates divisiveness in the City, and suggested that the issue be decided by Pasadena voters instead of the City Council.
In response to Councilmember Hampton's comments regarding applying the City's ESQ investment policy to the Pasadena Community Access Corporation ("PCAC"), the Pasadena Center Operating Company ("PCOC"), and Rose Bowl Operating Company ("RBOC"), Finance Deputy Director Erganian confirmed that the operating companies are covered under the City's current investment policy, noting that their funds are invested within the City's pooled investment portfolio and that they do not invest funds separately. Councilmember Hampton requested for the City's investment policy clearly state that the adopted ESG standards also apply to the City's operating companies.
Councilmember Masuda expressed concerns that the proposed policy amendment could potentially lead to future amendments targeting specific nations or contribute to hate-driven actions. He expressed opposition to any proposal that could lead to future BDS efforts and noted that he would be voting against the policy.
In response to Councilmember Madison's inquiry regarding if the City currently invests in companies tied to fossil fuels, weapons manufacturing, tobacco, and private prisons, Interim City Manager Hawkesworth confirmed that the City does not currently invest in such companies and reported that the existing ESQ policies adopted in 2021 already exclude many of these sectors. Councilmember Madison expressed concerns relating to public comments being heavily focused on Israel and cautioned that the proposed policy amendment could be interpreted as anti-Semitic despite its stated purpose.
Councilmember Jones expressed support for the proposed policy amendment as a means to reaffirm the City's environmental, social, and governance values.
Councilmember Lyon emphasized that the policy is not intended as a stance taken against Israel but rather formalizing and articulating the City's existing investment practices regarding fossil fuels, weapons manufacturing, tobacco, and private prisons.
Council Minutes1605/11/2026
MOTION:
ORDINANCES - FIRST
READING
Vice Mayor Rivas reiterated that the proposed policy amendment is a straightforward statement of the City's values and provides clear guidance for future City Councils and staff regarding prohibited investments in relation to ESG.
Councilmember Cole proposed adding language to the policy amendment to encourage the independent Fire & Police Retirement System Board ("FPRS") to adopt a similar investment policy.
Councilmember Madison reiterated his previous concerns and requested that additional language be added to the proposed amendment to clarify that the policy is not directed at any particular nation or conflict. Councilmember Hampton declined the friendly amendment and noted that the current language in the policy establishes the policy's intent and does not reference any state or conflict.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Hampton, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to approve the staff
recommendation, with an amendment add verbiage clearly stating that the policy also applies to the City's operating companies, and with a request to FPRS Board to adopt a similar ethical investment policy.
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hlampton, Jones, Lyon, Vice
Mayor Rivas
NOES: Councilmembers Madison and Masuda
ABSENT: Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
Conduct first reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
PASADENA AMENDING SECTIONS 2.05.210 AND 2.05.220 OF
TITLE 2, CHAPTER 2.05 OF THE PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING THE COMPENSATION OF THE MAYOR AND
MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL"
Yadi, Pasadena resident, thanked the City Council and City staff for working to make council compensation more equitable and accessible, and suggested that the City Council revisit compensation levels in a few years.
Vice Mayor Rivas noted her hesitation with the proposed $18,000 family care reimbursement allowance, and suggested separating childcare reimbursement from other expense allowances. She also noted the need to be mindful of increasing allowances during a projected budget deficit. She suggested reducing the dependent care reimbursement allowance to $7,500 (as set for City staff) and revisiting the matter at a later time if needed.
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Councilmember Lyon noted that only a handful of the current City Council have school-aged children and that there may be a natural limitation on use of the reimbursement. City Clerk Jomsky reported that the ordinance cannot be amended more than once every 2 years so the City Council may revisit the matter and amend the ordinance in 2 years, or convene another Committee on City Councilmembers' Compensation to review the matter within 5 years as required by the City Charter. Councilmember Lyon expressed support for revisiting the matter at a later time after seeing how the reimbursement is utilized.
Councilmember Madison expressed reservations regarding the lack of controls or guardrails to ensure appropriate allowable uses of the compensation package. He suggested a level amount of
compensation/reimbursement for each Councilmember, irrespective of their own needs. In response to Councilmember Madison's concerns regarding appropriate controls and guardrails, Alex Souto, Deputy City Manager, reported that a draft reimbursement policy, which was reviewed by the Finance Committee, will accompany the ordinance as part of second reading, and is scheduled to be presented to the City Council at the next meeting.
Councilmember Madison spoke on the large disparities in Council office spending in terms of mail, printing, and postage. Vice Mayor Rivas clarified that such issues are related to the City Council's Departmental budget matters, and are separate from the proposed ordinance and reimbursement policy related to City Council compensation. She suggested deferring the budget matter to the Legislative Policy Committee for review.
Following discussion, on the order of the Vice Mayor, with the consensus of the City Council, it was decided that first reading of the ordinance will return at the same time as the previously mentioned draft reimbursement policy, to facilitate a discussion on controls and guardrails related to appropriate reimbursements.
Conduct first reading of "AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE TITLE 2, ARTICLES III AND IV TO
UPDATE PROVISIONS REGARDING TERM LIMITS AND
TRAINING OF MEMBERS OF ADVISORY BOARDS,
COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES AND BOARDS OF OPERATING
COMPANIES CREATED BY CITY COUNCIL"
Following discussion, Councilmember Cole proposed an
amendment to the proposed ordinance to change the term limits from three 4-year terms to two 4-year terms for total of eight years instead of 12 years for members of City commissions, boards, and operating company boards. Councilmember Hampton expressed support for the change.
Council Minutes1805/11/2026
MOTION:
City Attorney Bagneris suggested that the City Council direct City staff to return with a revised ordinance to reflect the proposed changes instead of making amendments on the floor to ensure that all changes are properly captured, and the City Council can receive information from staff on the impacts of this change.
Councilmember Cole made a motion to bring back a revised ordinance with two 4-year terms as the limit, rather than the proposed three 4-year terms, for a total of eight years for all City commissions, boards, and operating companies.
Vice Mayor Rivas noted that prior discussions raised concerns regarding the RBOC, PCOC, and other hard-to-fill Board and Commission positions. Councilmember Masuda echoed similar concerns and suggested carving out such positions, especially related to the City's operating companies. Councilmember Lyon expressed similar sentiments, agreed to carving out operating companies, and suggested a 12-year limit of three 4-year terms for the three operating companies, with citizen commissions having an 8-year limit of two 4-year terms. He also noted that the City Council previously agreed to carve out the various parking place commissions, as well, due to the unique subject matter and difficulty in finding eligible people to serve.
Discussion ensued regarding term limits for operating companies and certain commissioner seats that may require different or special expertise. Councilmember Cole amended his motion to leave the term limits for the operating companies at three 4-year terms, and to carve out the parking place commissions and other industry-specific seats.
Following discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Hampton, to direct City staff to return with a revised ordinance establishing a two 4-year term limit for a total of 8 years for all commissions and boards, with the exception of operating companies which will have a three 4-year term limit, and with the exemption of the industry-specific seats on certain commissions/boards and business improvement district parking commissions.
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon, Vice
Mayor Rivas
NOES: Councilmembers Madison and Masuda
ABSENT: Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
Council Minutes1905/11/2026
RECOMMENDATIONS
FROM OFFICERS AND
DEPARTMENTS
City Council
Councilmember Hampton
stated a conflict of
interest, recused himself
from the item, and left the
meeting at 9:31 p.m.
Conduct first reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
PASADENA AMENDING TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS
AND WELFARE) BY ADDING ARTICLE XIV, CHAPTER 9.99,
SECTIONS 9.99.010 to 9.99.080 TO THE PASADENA MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATED TO PRESERVING CITY REAL PROPERTY FOR
CITY PURPOSES"
The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Hampton:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Hampton, Jones, Lyon,
Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
CONDUCT AN APPOINTMENT PROCESS FOR AN AT-LARGE
MEMBER POSITION AND THE ALTERNATE TENANT MEMBER
POSITION ON THE PASADENA RENTAL HOUSING BOARD
(PRHB) TO FILL UNSCHEDULED VACANCIES FOR THE
REMAINDER OF THE UNEXPIRED TERMS ENDING MAY 24,
2027
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Section 15378(b); and
(2) In accordance with Resolution No. 10120, conduct a consensus building process to facilitate appointments of an At-Large Member and the Alternate Tenant Member positions to fill unscheduled vacancies on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board, for the remainder of the unexpired terms, ending May 24,2027.
City Clerk Jomsky presented a Powerpoint presentation on the item, providing an oven/iew of the process to fill an unscheduled vacancy for one At Large Member position on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board (PRHB).
The following applicants presented information on their background, qualifications, and interest in being appointed to the PRHB:
Elisia Farmer, Pasadena resident
Brenda Lyon, Pasadena resident
Richard Starratt, Pasadena resident
Simon Gibbons, Pasadena resident
Rosa Leiva, Pasadena resident
Claudia De Anda, Pasadena resident
Desolina Avila, Pasadena resident
<
Council Minutes2005/11/2026
MOTION:
ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST:
Dennis Jebbia, Pasadena resident, urged the City Council to consider applicable experience and expertise when making their appointment to fill the unscheduled vacancy
Emanuel Najera, Pasadena resident, spoke on the importance of the alternate board member positions on the PRHB.
Blake Boyd, Pasadena resident, advocated for balance between housing providers and tenants on the PRHB.
Allison Henry, Pasadena resident, spoke on the importance of having a fully staffed Board and thanked the applicants for applying for the positions.
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to appoint Elisia Farmer to the unscheduled vacancy for the At-Large position, and Brenda Lyon to the unscheduled vacancy for the Alternate Tenant position, on the Pasadena Rental hlousing Board, terms expiring May 24, 2027.
Councilmember Madison made note of the qualifications of certain applicants, including Richard Starratt, but expressed his willingness to support the motion.
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Madison, Masuda, Vice Mayor Rivas
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Hampton and Mayor Gordo
ABSTAIN: None
On order of the Vice Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adjoul-n^j at 10:01 p.m.^
\:^^'
;torT\/l. Gordo, MayoijVictory.
City of Pasadena
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City Cl
Council Minutes2105/11/2026