Pasadena · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasadena public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Urban Coyote Conflict Management
Pasadena is holding a free coyote workshop Saturday so wildlife experts can explain coyote behavior and how to keep them out of your yard. A new city-commissioned report also points to overflowing trash and litter as a big reason coyotes stick around. Translation: better trash habits may be part of the fix.
City Budget Workshop Postponed
The budget workshop continuation didn't happen because the safe parking hearing ran so long — budget priorities and mid-year adjustment protocols will be taken up another night.
Earthquake Retrofit Grants for Apartment Owners
Pasadena apartment owners who’ve been ordered to earthquake-retrofit their buildings can now apply for state grants to help cover the work. That could mean lower retrofit costs getting passed on to renters.
Rental Housing Board fee authority dispute
An apartment association spokesman told the council that proposed new rent board fees for parking, pets and short repairs exceed the city charter's authority and could trigger litigation.
Arboleda Drive and Mesita Road Landmark Districts
Public hearings were set for August 17 on designating two new landmark districts with matching overlay zoning.
North Lake Specific Plan implementation
A zoning ordinance to implement the 2025 North Lake Specific Plan and redraw its boundaries was held after Vice Mayor Rivas disclosed a possible conflict of interest. It will come back once the conflict question is resolved.
Health Department Reorganization
Pasadena is reorganizing its city-run health department into four divisions. Since it’s one of only three city-run health departments in California, the shake-up could change how local health programs are delivered. If you use city health services, pay attention to how the new structure rolls out.
City Manager Hiring
Pasadena's next City Manager might be an insider! An employee is pushing for promoting from within, saying it'll keep morale high and provide stability when things are shaky.
Small Business Support
Pasadena is launching its first Small Business Week to give local entrepreneurs a boost. Expect workshops on landing city contracts, improving online marketing, and networking with established business owners.
Minimum Wage Increase
Pasadena’s minimum wage is set to rise to $18.57 an hour on July 1, 2026. That means bigger paychecks for some workers and higher payroll costs for local employers.