Pasadena · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasadena public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Flock surveillance technology
Multiple speakers raised concerns about the city's Flock license plate readers, data sharing with federal agencies, and a proposed $3.6 million real-time crime center in the budget, urging a moratorium and a comprehensive privacy program. The Flock discussion continues at the April 15 Public Safety Committee meeting.
Motel voucher shortage and homelessness enforcement data
The point-in-time count was received and filed but referred to the Homeless and Housing Planning Committee. A housing advocate reported over 300 unsheltered residents, fully subscribed motel vouchers, and asked for monthly public dashboards and more funding.
Rose Bowl lease dispute
Speakers urged the council to pause eviction proceedings against the 80-year-old Rose Bowl Riders equestrian group and meet with its leadership, saying communication has broken down.
Rent stabilization fair-return delays
The Rental Housing Board's first annual report shows 25 evictions rescinded and district data revealing Districts 6 and 7 lead in at-risk housing indicators. Councilmembers pressed for performance metrics and acknowledgment of the rocky rollout.
Local hiring goals on city construction contracts
Councilmembers pressed for real local hiring on the library project and Lyon said he'll bring a community benefits agreement policy forward. The city manager agreed to monthly reports and real-time payroll tracking.
Year-Round Homeless Shelter Funding
The council set aside about $2 million as a first step toward a year-round shelter, a top council priority. Staff will make it a standing item at the Housing committee and bring a work plan with location, population, and opening target details.
Collaboration on Afterschool and Summer Programs
The city's ASAP program and PUSD's expanded learning program already share school sites, and joint use agreements let the city run youth sports, aquatics, and pickleball at district gyms and fields. Board members pushed the city to add academic enrichment to summer recreation programs, and Councilmember Cole raised the need to plan the future of the Jefferson School lease collaboratively.
Rent Control Appeal
Rent control in Pasadena is still up in the air! The city and landlord groups are duking it out in court, and the outcome could mean big changes for how much renters pay and how much landlords can charge.
Lawsuit Against Utility Company
Pasadena's suing SoCal Edison because they say the utility's negligence caused the Eaton Fire. The city wants Edison to pay for all the public property, like roads and trees, that got wrecked.
Daylighting Law
Pasadena's got a new rulebook for digging up streets! This 'daylighting law' sets new guidelines for when and how construction crews can get their hands on our roads.
Rent Control Policy
South Pasadena decided against rent control, meaning renters and landlords won't see any changes to current housing rules. This decision comes after the city reviewed the potential impacts of such a policy.
Landlord-tenant Regulations
Pasadena landlords now have to pay tenants if they evict them without a good reason. This new rule aims to protect renters from unexpected moves and financial strain when they haven't broken any lease terms.
Rent Control
Pasadena just got rent control, thanks to a big community push! This win could change how much people pay for housing, and the article explains how they made it happen.
Public Health Order
Pasadena's 'Safer At Home' order is still active! This means you need to know the rules to stay safe and avoid any fines. It's all about keeping the community healthy.
City Manager Appointment
South Pasadena has a new City Manager, Stephanie DeWolfe! This appointment is a major move that will shape how the city operates moving forward.