Pasadena · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasadena public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Rose Bowl Riders eviction from Hahamonga Park
Several young riders and volunteers urged the council to preserve the RBR equestrian facility and the Myrtle Hill Farm programs that serve Girl Scouts, schoolchildren, and therapeutic riding participants.
Artificial turf vs. natural grass at Villa and Robinson Park
The council put $1.125 million toward field replacement but stayed neutral on turf type, sending the question to committee — possibly meeting at the park itself. Coaches credit the current turf with keeping kids playing soccer safely; opponents cite PFAS, heat, and microplastic risks.
Splash pad hours during extreme heat
A resident noted the city's only splash pad is closed for the season during a heat wave and asked Parks & Rec to keep it on when temperatures top 82 degrees; staff agreed to look into it.
CREEK environmental education center at Hahamongna
The council's approval of the Outward Bound Adventures pre-development agreement launches the transformation of a neglected 30-acre former Forest Service compound into the Creek environmental education center, with partners including the Trust for Public Land and Pasadena City College.
Turkey Tussle funding
Speakers including a PHS alum urged the council to keep funding the historic Pasadena vs. PCC football rivalry game. Hampton pledged to keep it funded; 13 letters of support were received.
Villa Park Community Center renovation
Mayor Gordo pushed staff to plan a real renovation of the Villa Park Community Center — the city's most-used — which hasn't seen major investment since the 1990s. Staff agreed to bring a plan forward, possibly in the next CIP cycle.