Pasadena · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasadena public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Zoning appeal hearing set for 3140 E. California Blvd.
The council set a November 10 public hearing on an appeal of the Board of Zoning Appeals' approval of a 4,955-square-foot, two-story house at 3140 E. California Blvd.
Vice mayor appointment process
The council adopted a policy making clear the vice mayor role follows the long-standing practice of the longest-serving member who hasn't yet served, after a messy deviation four years ago.
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.
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.
Council Compensation and Reimbursement Policy
The compensation ordinance first reading was held a week so a dependent-care reimbursement policy with guardrails can come with it. Madison flagged an $18,000 family care allowance and huge disparities in district office spending ($72,000 vs. $1,100).
Airbnb Tourism District Assessment Collection
The city will now collect tourism business improvement district assessments through Airbnb, capturing tax revenue from short-term rentals.
Council vacancy appointment process ordinance
The council introduced an ordinance spelling out how to fill a district seat vacancy when less than two years remain on the term — a first reading with adoption to follow.
Fair campaign practices agreement update
The council updated its voluntary campaign ethics pledge so candidates must get written consent before listing supporters' names and streets — a change pushed by the Commission on the Status of Women to protect domestic violence survivors and undocumented residents. The mayor worried it could discourage candidates from signing.
Master Street Tree Plan and urban forest
The council modernized its decades-old street tree species list, with Lyon pressing to keep flexibility on coastal live oaks and a fuller forestry master plan coming next fiscal year.