Pasadena · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasadena public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Central Library seismic retrofit construction contract
The city hired Geocon West for up to $335,950 to do materials testing and inspections for the Central Library seismic retrofit — a step toward reopening the library, expected around 2028.
SB 9 Urban Lot Splits Repeal in Eaton Fire Zone
The council moved to repeal interim ordinances that banned Senate Bill 9 lot splits and duplexes in very high fire hazard zones within the Eaton Fire boundary. The first reading passed unanimously after a public hearing with no public comment.
SB 79 Transit-Oriented Housing Delay Ordinance
The council moved a first reading of a delay ordinance for the state's transit-oriented housing law, but narrowed it — dropping exemptions for higher-density multifamily zones and adding an 18-month sunset. Final action comes June 15 with three members recused.
600 N. Rosemead Affordable Housing Project
A 133-unit, 100% affordable project (131 affordable + 2 manager units) combining adaptive reuse of an office building with new construction, including units set aside for Eaton Fire victims and special needs populations. Neighbors appealed over density, height, parking, noise, and transit-stop qualifications; the council found no substantial evidence supported the appeal.
511 S. Oak Knoll multifamily project appeal
Neighbors appealed the Design Commission's approval of a 46-unit, four-story apartment building, citing lit exterior corridors, a protected canyon live oak, noise from an adjacent substation, and neighborhood character. The council denied the appeal but added a condition pushing the developer to study relocating or opening the corridors.
All Saints Church safe parking application
The council finally decided a months-long fight over letting up to 25 people sleep overnight in their cars at All Saints Church's parking lot. Neighbors say the area already has too many homeless services and too much crime; supporters say safe parking is proven, humane, and helps people get back into housing.
Affordable housing at 434-470 North Lake Avenue
The city spent $12 million to buy this former Kaiser site and is now negotiating exclusively with a development team for 100%-affordable housing plus mental health services. Madison wanted the site re-marketed without the county mental health component, arguing taxpayers could get more value.