)OPENING:
CLOSED SESSION
J
ROLL CALL:
Councilmembers:
CITY OF PASADENA
City Council Minutes
August 17, 2026-5:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chamber
Mayor Gordo called the regular meeting to order at 5:00 (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison)
p.m.
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting recessed at 5:08 p.m. to discuss the following closed session items:
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding pending litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of Case: Lpftus, J. v. City of Pasadena
Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 24NNCV02693
CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL
regarding pending litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of Case: Alvarez, D. v. Citv of Pasadena, et al.
USDC Case No. 2:25-cv-02490-MWF-PVC
The above closed session items were discussed, with no reportable action at this time.
CONSIDERATION OF INITIATION OF LITIGATION pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4): One potential case The above closed session item was discussed. Authorization was given by the City Council to initiate civil litigation and the defendants and other particulars will, once formally commenced, be disclosed upon inquiry unless to do so would jeopardize the City's ability to effectuate service of process. (Motion approved unanimously) (Absent: Councilmembers hlampton and Madison)
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 discussed, with no reportable action at this time.
On the order of the Mayor, the regular meeting reconvened at 6:01 p.m. The pledge of allegiance was led by Councilmember Lyon.
Mayor Victor M. Gordo
Vice Mayor Jessica Rivas
Councilmember Rick Cole
CouncilmemberTyron Hampton (absent)
<Council Minutes108/17/2026
Staff:
PUBLIC COMMENT ON
MATTERS NOT ON THE
AGENDA
Councilmember Justin Jones
Councilmember Jason Lyon
Councilmember Steve Madison (absent)
Councilmember Gene Masuda
Interim City Manager Matthew E. Hawkesworth
City Attorney/City Prosecutor Michele Beal Bagneris
City Clerk Mark Jomsky
Connie De La Torre, Pasadena resident, and Rene Gonzalez, Pasadena resident, urged the City Council to accept the invitation to the 2026 Sister Cities Cultural Exchange in Guanajuato, Mexico.
Colin Campbell, South Pasadena resident, suggested that the City upgrade existing infrastructure at the Glenarm Power Plant site by implementing a fusion reactor.
Elizabeth McDuffie, Pasadena resident, urged the City Council to reconsider a settlement agreement related to zoning violations.
Jesus Rojas, Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles, expressed concerns regarding the fees created by the Pasadena Rental Housing Board that reach beyond the provisions contained in the City Charter.
Kelly Brinkman, Pasadena resident, urged the City Council to continue advocating for AB239 through the remaining legislative process.
Lizz Wolf, Pasadena resident, expressed concerns regarding the unauthorized use of Pasadena public services relating to water and power at vacant Caltrans properties, particularly at 640 S St. John Ave.
Humaira, Pasadena resident, spoke on the upcoming Flock rally and invited the City Council and public to attend to voice their concerns.
Valarie Toliver, Pasadena resident, thanked Councilmembers Hampton and Jones for assisting her organization so it may host the back-to-school community event in front of City Hall.
Yadi, Pasadena resident, advocated for the City to receive a presentation on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) as a proactive approach to reduce crime and improve quality of life.
Joe Pangrazio, Pasadena resident, advocated for the City to preserve the longtime partnership with Rose Bowl Riders.
Council Minutes208/17/2026
nCONSENT CALENDAR
City Manager/ Executive
Director
Item discussed separately
Olden Denham, Pasadena resident, provided comments on the officer-involved shooting of Anthony McClain, and the need for accountability.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH HOUCHIN COMMUNITY BLOOD BANK FOR
BLOOD AND BLOOD COMPONENTS FOR A TERM OF 12
MONTHS, WITH THE OPTION TO EXTEND UP TO 36 MONTHS,
FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $300,000 (Fire Dept.)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH PAVECO CONSTRUCTION, INC., TO
FURNISH LABOR AND MATERIALS FOR UTILITY AND
MISCELLANEOUS STREET REPAIRS FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-
TO-EXCEED $7,500,000 FOR UP TO THREE 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 Section 21065 of CEQA and Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15378, and as such, no environmental document pursuant to CEQA is required; and
(2) Award contract to the lowest and best bid dated June 22, 2026, submitted by Paveco Construction, Inc., in response to the project plans and specifications for utility and miscellaneous street repairs, and authorize the City Manager to enter into a contract for an amount not-to-exceed $2,500,000, or for an initial term of up to one year, whichever occurs first, with the option for two additional one-year terms at $2,500,000 per year, at the discretion of the City Manager, for a total contract amount not-to-exceed $7,500,000. (Contract No. 33749)
ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
OR DESIGNEE TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT WITH THE
UNITED STATES BUREAU OF RECLAMATION TO ACCEPT
GRANT FUNDING FROM THE WATER AND ENERGY
EFFICIENCY GRANT PROGRAM IN THE AMOUNT OF UP TO
$2,000,000 TO IMPLEMENT THE ADVANCED METERING
INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT (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 State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 and within the meaning of Section 15378(b); and
(2) Adopt a resolution authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to accept the Water and Energy Efficiency Grant ("WEEG") from the United States Bureau of Reclamation ("USBR") in an amount up to $2,000,000 for the Advanced Metering Infrastructure ("AMI") project, execute agreements with USBR to receive the grant funding, and Council Minutes308/17/2026
administer grant agreements, amendments, and associated contract documents for this grant award. (Resolution No.10206)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH CANNON CORPORATION TO PROVIDE
ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE DON BENITO RESERVOIR
REPLACEMENT PROJECT FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$618,782 FOR UP TO THREE 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; (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 Cannon Corporation to provide engineering services for an amount not-to-exceed $618,782, or three years, whichever occurs first, which includes the base amount of $538,071 and a contingency of $80,711 to provide for any necessary change orders. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to the City Charter Section 1002(F), Contract for professional or unique services (Contract No. 33788); 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 THREE-
YEAR CONTRACT WITH OPENGOV INC., FOR A BUDGETING
SOFTWARE SOLUTION FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$879,918 (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 the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code §21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines §15378;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a three-year contract with OpenGov, Inc., through July 31, 2029, for continued use of the Budgeting & Planning software solution, including subscriptions, configuration support, training, and maintenance, for an amount not-to-exceed $879,918. Competitive price bidding is not required pursuant to City Charter §1002(F) (contracts for professional or unique services) (Contract No. 33828); and
(3) Grant the recommended contract an exemption from the Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code §4.08.049(B), contracts for which the City's best interests are served.
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO RETROACTIVELY
EXTEND CONTRACT NO. 31228 WITH BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.
FOR TWELVE MONTHS (Finance Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
Council Minutes408/17/2026
n
City Council
APPOINTMENTS,
REAPPOINTMENTS, &
RESIGNATIONS
City Clerk/ Secretary
Item discussed separately
MINUTES APPROVED
J
CLAIMS RECEIVED AND
FILED
(1) Find that the proposed action in the agenda report is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) as defined in Section 21065 of CEQA and Section 1 5378 of the State CEQA Guidelines, and as such no environmental document
pursuant to CEQA is required for the project;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to retroactively extend Contract No. 31228 with Bank of America, N.A. for twelve months for a contract period of May 17, 2019 through May 16, 2027, for banking services within the current not-to-exceed contract amount of $659,260 (Contract No. 31228-1);
(3) Authorize the City Manager or Director of Finance to execute all associated bank documents and necessary agreements; and (4) Grant the proposed contract extension an exemption from the Competitive Selection Process pursuant to the Pasadena Municipal Code Section 4.08.049(B), contracts for which the City's best interests are served.
APPOINTMENT OF CHRISTINE TARVER TO THE COMMISSION
ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN (District 4 Nomination)
APPOINTMENT OF DR. MICHAEL BOUCHARD TO THE
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMISSION (District 3
Nomination)
APPROVAL OF APPOINTMENT OF CLAUDIA DE ANDA TO
SERVE AS THE ALTERNATE TENANT MEMBER ON THE
PASADENA RENTAL HOUSING BOARD (PRHB) FILLING AN
UNSCHEDULED VACANCY, TERM ENDING MAY 24,2027
July 13, 2026
July 13,2026
July 20, 2026
July 20, 2026
July 27, 2026
July 27, 2026
August 3,2026
August 3,2026
August 10, 2026
August 10, 2026
City Council
Successor
Community
City Council
Successor
Community
City Council
Successor
Community
City Council
Successor
Community
City Council
Successor
Community
Agency to
Development
Agency to
Development
Agency to
Development
Agency to
Development
Agency to
Development
Claim No. Claimant
the Pasadena
Commission
the Pasadena
Commission
the Pasadena
Commission
the Pasadena
Commission
the Pasadena
Commission
Claim Amount
2027-0021
2027-0022
2027-0023
Sandeep Ananthu
LenaKhalatyan
Elizabeth Wolf
$3,400.00
835.77
35,000.00+
Council Minutes508/17/2026
n
MOTION:
CONSENT ITEMS
DISCUSSED
SEPARATELY
Mayor Gordo stated a
conflict of interest relating
to his ownership of rental
property, recused himself
from the item, and left the
meeting at 6:25 p.m.
MOTION:
Mayor Gordo returned to
the meeting at 6:26 p.m.
2027-0024 Wendy Hwang
2027-0025 Art's Underwater Reef
2027-0026 Jose Ton
2027-0027 Jonathan Schmidt
2027-0028 Shan Un
2027-0029 Southern California Gas
Company
2027-0030 Michele E. Akbari
2027-0031 Anna Marie Bueckert
2027-0032 Patrick Gumabao
35,000.00+
71,889.89
500.00
10,000.00+
2,000.00
1,785.00
1,300.00
1,379.10
1,355.87
It was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by
Councilmember Jones, to approve all items on the Consent Calendar, with the exception of Item 1 and Item 8a. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison)
APPROVAL OF APPOINTMENT OF CLAUDIA DE ANDA TO
SERVE AS THE ALTERNATE TENANT MEMBER ON THE
PASADENA RENTAL HOUSING BOARD (PRHB) FILLING AN
UNSCHEDULED VACANCY, TERM 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) Appoint Claudia De Anda to serve as Alternate Tenant Member to fill an unscheduled vacancy on the Pasadena Rental Housing Board, for the remainder of the unexpired term, ending May 24, 2027.
It was moved by Councilmember Cole, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to approve Item 8a. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent:
Councilmembers hlampton, Madison, and Mayor Gordo)
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT WITH HOUCHIN COMMUNITY BLOOD BANK FOR
BLOOD AND BLOOD COMPONENTS FOR A TERM OF 12
MONTHS, WITH THE OPTION TO EXTEND UP TO 36 MONTHS,
FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $300,000 (Fire Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the project proposed in the agenda report is not a "project" subject to the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to Public Resources Code §21065 and within the meaning of State CEQA Guidelines Section 15378;
(2) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a 12-month term contract, with the option to extend, up to 36 months with Houchin Community Blood Bank, without competitive bidding pursuant to City Chater Section 1002(F) contracts for professional or unique Council Minutes608/17/2026
MOTION:
PUBLIC HEARING
Councilmember Lyon
stated a conflict of
interest, recused himself
from the item, and left the
meeting at 6:35 p.m.
services, to provide blood and blood components, for an amount not- to-exceed $300,000 (Contract No. 33804);
(3) Grant the recommended contract an exemption from the Competitive Selection process pursuant to Pasadena Municipal Code Section 4.08.049(B) contracts for which the City's best interests are served; and
(4) Authorize the City Manager to approve no-cost amendments to the subject contract including durational extensions.
Chad Augustin, Fire Chief, provided an overview of the program and other details contained in the agenda report, noting the importance of the live-saving impacts this will have for the Pasadena community in having the Pasadena Fire Department carry prehospital life-saving blood.
Following brief discussion, it was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by Councilmember Masuda, to approve the staff
recommendation for Item 1. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison)
DESIGNATION OF THE ARBOLEDA DRIVE LANDMARK
DISTRICT AND A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH
THE ARBOLEDA DRIVE (LD-29) LANDMARK OVERLAY ZONING
DISTRICT
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the designation of a historic resource and zoning map amendment to establish a landmark overlay zoning district are categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to the guidelines of the California Environmental Quality Act, Section 15308: Class 8, Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment, and there are no features that distinguish the project from others in the exempt classes, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances, and no other exception to the exemption applies;
(2) Adopt the findings in Attachment A of the agenda report to find that the proposed Arboleda Drive Landmark District meets the criteria for designation as a Landmark District and to approve the proposed Zoning Map Amendment; and
(3) Adopt an ordinance to amend the official Zoning Map to establish the Arboleda Drive (LD-29) Landmark Overlay Zoning District.
Recommendation of the Historic Preservation Commission: On March 3, 2026, the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) determined that the proposed Arboleda Drive Landmark District meets the criteria for designation and recommended, by a vote of 8- 0, that the City Council adopt the environmental determination and landmark district designation.
Recommendation of the Planning Commission: On June 10,
2026, the Planning Commission (PC) recommended, by a vote of 5- 0, that the City Council adopt the environmental determination and Council Minutes708/17/2026
n
MOTION:
MOTION:
ORDINANCE - FIRST
READING
approve the Zoning Map Amendment to establish the Arboleda Drive Landmark District (LD-29) Overlay Zoning District.
(Discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 13, including for public comment purposes.)
City Clerk Jomsky reported that on August 3, 2026, 12 postcards were mailed and 38 notices were posted, and that one letter in support of the proposed landmark designation 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.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by Councilmember Jones, to close the public hearing. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton, Lyon, and Madison)
Rathar Duong, Senior Planner, made a brief Powerpoint
presentation on the item, providing information on the landmark district and the twelve designated properties.
In response to Councilmember Cole's inquiry regarding how much of the City could ultimately be designated under landmark district status, Jason Mikaelian, Acting Planning Director, reported that historic district designation are neighborhood driven efforts for individual landmarks or districts designations. He reported that the process includes residents collecting signatures, meeting strict criteria, and working with City staff. Kevin Johnson, Senior Planner, added that the City is conducting a citywide history resources survey to identify the number of potential future landmark districts and that City staff will review all identified districts to ensure that they meet the current criteria for historical designation.
Mayor Gordo noted that historic districts contribute to how Pasadena is experienced today and in the future.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Rivas, seconded by Councilmember Masuda, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton, Lyon, and Madison) First reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PASADENA
AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP TO ESTABLISH THE
ARBOLEDA DRIVE (LD-29) LANDMARK OVERLAY DISTRICT"
The ordinance above was introduced by Vice Mayor Rivas:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Masuda, Vice Mayor
Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Hampton, Lyon, and Madison
ABSTAIN: None
Council Minutes808/17/2026
PUBLIC HEARING
Councilmember Lyon
returned to the meeting at
6:47 p.m.
DESIGNATION OF THE MESITA ROAD LANDMARK DISTRICT
AND A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH THE
MESITA ROAD (LD-30) LANDMARK OVERLAY ZONING
DISTRICT
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the designation of a historic resource and a zoning map amendment to establish a landmark overlay zoning district are categorically exempt from environmental review pursuant to the guidelines of the California Environmental Quality Act, Section 15308: Class 8, Actions by Regulatory Agencies for Protection of the Environment, and there are no features that distinguish the project from others in the exempt classes, and therefore, there are no unusual circumstances, and no other exception to the exemption applies;
(2) Adopt the findings in Attachment A of the agenda report to find that the proposed Mesita Road Landmark District meets the criteria for designation as a Landmark District and to approve the proposed Zoning Map Amendment; and
(3) Adopt an ordinance to amend the official Zoning Map to establish the Mesita Road (LD-30) Landmark Overlay Zoning District.
Recommendation of the Historic Preservation Commission: On March 3, 2026, the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) determined that the proposed Mesita Road Landmark District meets the criteria for designation and recommended, by a vote of 8-0, that the City Council adopt the environmental determination and landmark district designation.
Recommendation of the Planning Commission: On June 10,
2026, the Planning Commission (PC) recommended, by a vote of 5- 0, that the City Council adopt the environmental determination and approve the Zoning Map Amendment to establish the Mesita Road Landmark District (LD-30) Overlay Zoning District.
(Discussed and considered concurrently with Item No. 14, including for public comment purposes.)
City Clerk Jomsky reported that on August 3,2026,7 postcards were mailed and 16 notices were posted, and that one letter in support of the proposed landmark designation 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.
Senior Planner Duong made a brief Powerpoint presentation on the item, providing information on the landmark district and the seven designated properties.
Humaira, Pasadena resident, expressed her concerns regarding the oversaturation of landmark districts and the resulting effect this may have on pre-empting density, and advocated for the City to keep neighborhoods affordable.
Council Minutes908/17/2026
n
MOTION:
MOTION:
ORDINANCE - FIRST
READING
REPORTS AND
COMMENTS FROM
COUNCIL COMMITTEES
Economic Development
and Technology
Committee
Councilmember Cole advocated for a more definitive criteria and a comprehensive approach to landmark designations.
Mayor Gordo noted that landmark designations also come with large responsibilities for homeowners to preserve their historic investments.
In response to Councilmember Masuda's inquiry regarding construction activity in landmark districts, Acting Planning Director Mikaelian reported that landmark designation does not prevent property construction, stating that property owners generally retain the ability to construct ADUs or add improvements to their homes.
It was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by
Councilmember Lyon, to close the public hearing. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison)
It was moved by Councilmember Masuda, seconded by
Councilmember Lyon, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison)
First reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PASADENA
AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP TO ESTABLISH THE
MESITA ROAD (LD-30) LANDMARK OVERLAY DISTRICT"
The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Masuda:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Masuda, Vice
Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison
ABSTAIN: None
EXPANSION OF THE EATON FIRE REBUILD PERMIT FEE
WAIVER PROGRAM TO INCLUDE PERMIT FEES FOR REPAIRS
TO ELIGIBLE STANDING HOMES RELATED TO SMOKE, SOOT,
ASH OR WATER DAMAGE (Planning Dept.)
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the recommended fee reductions are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines under the "Common Sense" exemption per
Section 15061(b)(3). This exemption applies because the action involves only the waiver of City plan check and permit fees for eligible fire-related repairs and does not authorize any physical construction activity beyond what previously existed;
(2) Adopt a resolution amending the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 General Fee Schedule to reduce or waive various Plan Check and Permit Council Minutes1008/17/2026
n
Fees for repairing eligible standing homes damaged in the Eaton Fire (Resolution No. 10207);
(3) Direct the City Attorney to prepare within 30 days an ordinance to amend Title 4 of the Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) to exempt qualified repairs of eligible residential structures damaged by the Eaton Fire from the City's fees for Construction Tax; and (4) Direct staff to include the fees in the same recovery efforts being done for the existing program.
Recommendation of the Economic Development & Technoloav Commission: On June 16, 2026, the Economic Development & Technology Committee (EDTech) recommended the City Council approve the proposed expansion of the fee reductions for standing homes with documented damage from the Eaton Fire as follows:
1. Waive plan check and building permit fees collected into the Building Fund (204) and the General Fund (101) with a total estimated cost of $100,000.
The reductions outlined above would apply to projects that meet all of the following (eligible sites):
1. Located Within a Mandatory Evacuation Order or Evacuation Warning: Area Eligibility would extend to standing homes within officially designated evacuation zones.
2. Owner-Occupied at the Time of the Eaton Fire: The property must have been owner-occupied as of January 7, 2025,
consistent with the existing program. For multi-family sites, only owner-occupied units are eligible for fee waivers.
3. Documented Fire-Related Smoke or Ash Damage: Applicants must submit a professional report verifying fire-related smoke or ash damage. Examples of acceptable documentation
include:
Licensed contractor assessments;
• Industrial hygienist or environmental testing reports; HVAC contamination assessments;
• Insurance adjuster findings; and
• In some cases, dated photos showing condition of the
area to be repaired 'before' and 'after' the fire may also be accepted.
4. Repairs Limited to Restoring Pre-Fire Conditions: Fee waivers apply only to repairs necessary to restore the home to its pre-fire condition. Elective remodels or expansions are not eligible.
Staff is supportive of the expanded program and proposed eligibility criteria for standing homes. Standing home repairs are generally smaller in scope than full rebuilds, requiring nominal permit fees or in some instances, such as soot removal, no city permits for the remediation. Based on the permits analyzed for Table 1 in the agenda report, staff anticipates average waived fees of $150 to $2,000 per property, depending on repair type and valuation. An itemized list of the fire repair permits is included as Attachment C (of the agenda report), which totals just over $51,000. Staff is proposing Council Minutes1108/17/2026
n
MOTION:
RECOMMENDATIONS
FROM OFFICERS AND
DEPARTMENTS
City Manager
a total program budget of $100,000 for fee waivers for standing homes to be funded by the Building Fund. There is no cost to the General Fund for the proposed expanded fee waivers.
Aurore Wright, Pasadena resident, advocated for the City Council to approve this expansion of the Eaton Fire permit fee waiver program, and noted the financial hardships that those who lost their homes are currently facing.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that one letter in opposition to the staff recommendation and four letters advocating for the permit fee waivers to include homes that are still standing but damaged due to the Eaton Fire 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.
Councilmember Jones expressed condolences to the public commentor and the affected residents impacted by the Eaton Fire, and thanked the Economic Development and Technology
Committee for working diligently on this matter.
It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by
Councilmember Lyon, to approve the staff recommendation. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison)
CONSIDERATION OF SPECIAL MEETINGS OF THE CITY
COUNCIL ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2026 AND TUESDAY,
SEPTEMBER 29, 2026, IN PLACE OF REGULAR MEETINGS ON
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2026, AND MONDAY, SEPTEMBER
28,2026
Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council:
(1) Find that the action proposed in the agenda report is covered by the "Common Sense" exemption set forth in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(c) as CEQA only applies to projects that may have a significant effect on the environment;
(2) Discuss and consider holding special meetings of the City Council on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, and Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in place of regular meetings on Monday, September 14, 2026, and Monday, September 28, 2026; and
(3) If supported by the City Council, direct City staff to proceed with the recommended special meeting schedule, incorporating outreach and notification to members of the public.
City Clerk Jomsky reported that 12 letters, including one letter with a list of 95 names, advocating for the City Council to start meetings on time and/or providing concerns relating to City Council Standing Committee meeting cancellations that have occurred recently, were received by the City Clerk's Office, distributed to the City Council, posted online, and made part of the public record for this item.
Council Minutes1208/17/2026
The following individuals expressed concerns regarding the delayed start times of City Council meetings and requested explanations for recent Council Committee meeting cancellations, and/or provided other related comments:
Daniel James, Pasadena resident
Humaira, Pasadena resident
Councilmember Lyon advocated for the City Council to discuss meeting start/end times and frequency of meetings at a future City Council meeting. He expressed support for moving the City Council meetings to Tuesdays on a trial basis to determine if such a change will result in improvements in meeting efficiency. He noted his preference for having City Council meetings on Thursdays.
Vice Mayor Rivas also acknowledged the issues of the delayed City Council meeting start times and the difficulties of maintaining a quorum for committee meetings. She expressed support for conducting City Council meetings on Tuesdays on a trial basis, provided that the City Council commits to holding meetings on Tuesdays following a national holiday.
Councilmember Cole expressed support for City Council meetings occurring on Tuesdays, noting that the change would provide Mondays as a regular workday for City staff to respond to City Council questions, and also provide an additional day of preparation for City Councilmembers and for members of the public to review agenda materials prior to the meeting. He proposed that City staff prepare an ordinance to make the change to Tuesdays for City Council consideration at the next meeting when the full City Council is present.
Interim City Manager Hawkesworth stated that the proposed trial period for having City Council meetings on Tuesdays allows the public, City Council, and City staff an opportunity to adjust and to determine if any unintended consequences occur before making the permanent change.
In response to Councilmember Jones and Lyon's preferences for meeting to occur on Thursdays, City Clerk Jomsky reported on the current City Council agenda preparation process, and also stated that just the Community Police Oversight Commission and Pasadena Rental Housing Board now use the Council Chamber for meetings, so the move to Tuesdays would not affect their meetings. hie also reported City staff will coordinate to find alternative meeting days and times for City Council standing committee meetings, with input from the Chairs of each Committee.
Council Minutes1308/17/2026
MOTION:
ORDINANCES-FIRST
READING
Councilmember Rivas
stated a conflict of
interest, recused herself
from the item, and left the
meeting at 7:46 p.m.
Discussion ensued regarding Committees that have experienced significant cancellation rates and the composition of the City Council which includes full-time working members.
Councilmember Masuda expressed his flexibility in having City Council meetings take place on Tuesdays and noted the need to hear input from the two absent Councilmembers before making any permanent changes.
Mayor Gordo expressed support for City Council meetings occurring on Tuesdays, while also voicing his support for the consideration of Thursday meetings. He acknowledged ongoing concerns about Council Committee quorum and attendance issues, noting that these issues affect Councilmembers regardless of work situations. With regard to late starts of the City Council meetings, he explained that closed sessions often involve complex legal matters and can sometimes run longer than anticipated.
It was moved by Councilmember Jones, seconded by
Councilmember Cole, to approve the staff recommendation, with direction to City staff to prepare an ordinance to set the date and time for future City Council meetings to occur on Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m. (Motion unanimously approved) (Absent: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison)
First reading of "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PASADENA
AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF TITLE 17 (ZONING CODE)
OF THE CITY OF PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE TO
IMPLEMENT THE 2025 NORTH LAKE SPECIFIC PLAN IN
CHAPTER 17.34 (NORTH LAKE SPECIFIC PLAN) AND AMEND
THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP TO MODIFY THE BOUNDARIES OF
THE NORTH LAKE SPECIFIC PLAN, REDESIGNATE ZONES
WITHIN THE NORTH LAKE SPECIFIC PLAN AREA AND AT 60 S.
VIRGINIA AVENUE, 701 AND 709 N. MENTOR AVENUE, AND
1311 AND 1321 N. MENTOR AVENUE IN CHAPTER 17.20
(ZONING DISTRICTS, ALLOWABLE LAND USES, AND ZONE-
SPECIFIC STANDARDS), SECTION 17.20.020 (ZONING MAP
AND ZONING DISTRICTS), AND AMENDING ZONING CODE
SECTIONS 17.30.030 (2023 CENTRAL DISTRICT SPECIFIC
PLAN - ALLOWABLE LAND USES) AND 17.30.080 (2023
CENTRAL DISTRICT SPECIFIC PLAN - OPEN SPACE) FOR
CONSISTENCY"
The City Clerk noted a change to the title of the ordinance is necessary to add a "O", with the correction to read, "SECTION
17.20.020". Acting Planning Director Mikaelian also reported clerical corrections to "Section 17.34.030 - Allowable Land Uses" in Exhibit 1, which shall begin with capital "A" and continue through capital "G", replacing the capital "G" through capital "M", and that the first line of this section shall also add the words "Section 17.80.020" to read as Council Minutes1408/17/2026
follows: "A. Definitions. Definitions of specific land uses are found in Section 17.80.020."
The ordinance above, with the noted changes, was introduced by Councilmember Cole:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Masuda, Mayor
Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Hampton, Madison, Vice Mayor Rivas ABSTAIN: None
Vice Mayor Rivas returned First reading of "AN UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF to the meeting at 7:47 PASADENA GRANTING ASSIGNMENT OF A NON-EXCLUSIVE P m. SOLID WASTE COLLECTION FRANCHISE FROM ROBERT M.
ARSENIAN TO SOUTHLAND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES,
INC. AND AMENDING UNCODIFIED ORDINANCE NO.7396"
The ordinance above was introduced by Councilmember Lyon:
AYES: Councilmembers Cole, Jones, Lyon, Masuda, Vice
Mayor Rivas, Mayor Gordo
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmembers Hampton and Madison
ABSTAIN: None
ADJOURNMENT
ATTEST:
On ord^r of the Mayor, the regular meeting of the City Council adjourned at 7:49 p.m.p.m.
IA-M-^U
Victor M. Gordo, Mayor Lh\
City of Pasadena \ )
\y
City^Clerk
Council Minutes1508/17/2026