News Update: September 5, 2024
South Pasadena City Council Meeting Update: Awaiting Decisions on Museum Lease
The City of South Pasadena held a Closed Session Council meeting on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, to discuss the future of the South Pasadena Historical Museum and its current operator, the South Pasadena Preservation Foundation (SPPF).
Several members of the public delivered comments before the session, voicing their concerns and support for SPPF. The City received 125 written comments backing the continued operation of the museum by SPPF, which have now been made public. Click here to view the written public comments.
At this time, it’s assumed that the eviction “Notice to Vacate” issued to SPPF remains active, as there has been no official communication from the City regarding any changes to this status.
During the open council session that immediately followed, the City Attorney reported that two individuals from the City would be assigned to negotiate a possible new lease with SPPF. However, the identities of these negotiators have not yet been announced.
We will provide more updates on this issue as further information becomes available. Stay tuned for developments.
Original Post September 3
The South Pasadena Historical Museum, a community landmark, curated and operated for over 40 years by the South Pasadena Preservation Foundation (SPPF), is at risk of closure following an unexpected eviction notice from the City Attorney. This development has sparked widespread concern among residents who fear losing a cherished cultural institution that plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing the city’s history and lifestyle.
For reference, in a recent news article, SPPF states: “South Pasadena’s rich history is woven into its architecture, streets, and the community itself. The South Pasadena Preservation Foundation (SPPF) is at the heart of an enduring mission: Safeguarding the city’s historic character while also supporting affordable housing initiatives. This dual commitment demonstrates how historic preservation and community development can complement each other.”
The Preservation website information page has been updated with some more details about the communication. CLICK HERE.
Apparent Misinformed Attorney, and Communication Mistakes
What seems to be at the center of the controversy is a list of miscommunications over new terms proposed by the City for SPPF’s lease of the museum. SPPF originally sought to formalize the museum’s scope for use for certain activities related to the weekly Farmers Market. In April 2024, after extensive discussions with city staff, SPPF agreed to these provisions, believing all parties had reached a mutual understanding about the responsibilities and costs involved.
However, despite the apparent agreement, misunderstandings about the lease terms seem to have persisted. Although SPPF believed the lease terms were ready to move forward, communication issues led to confusion among city staff and the City Council. Between April and July, SPPF was never informed of any concerns or questions that the City might have had about the proposed terms.
Eviction Notice Delivered from The City of South Pasadena
The situation escalated in late July when SPPF received an unexpected eviction notice from the City. The notice cited a range of issues, many of which SPPF claims were based on misunderstandings or miscommunications that were never clarified with the Foundation. According to SPPF, some of the concerns raised in the eviction notice were being heard for the first time, while others were matters that could have been resolved with a simple phone call or email.
“We were completely caught off guard by the eviction notice,” said an SPPF representative. “We had been waiting for the City to finalize the lease and were not made aware of any remaining concerns. It seems like these misunderstandings could have been easily addressed with direct communication.”
Community Impact and Response
The potential eviction has sparked a strong response from local residents, who value the museum as a vital resource for education, culture, and community engagement. For decades, the museum has provided educational programs, exhibits, and events that connect people to South Pasadena’s rich history and heritage.
Many residents are worried that an eviction would cut off future generations from access to this important cultural and historical resource. “The museum is a pillar of our community,” said one resident. “Losing it over what appears to be a series of miscommunications would be a real tragedy.”
Call for Cooperation and Transparency
SPPF remains committed to finding a positive resolution and is urging the City to reconsider the eviction notice. The Foundation has expressed its readiness to clarify any misunderstandings and work collaboratively with the City to ensure that the museum continues to serve the best interests of the community.
“We believe there is a way forward that benefits everyone,” added the SPPF representative. “We are open to working with the City and all parties involved to reach a fair resolution that allows us to continue our mission of preserving South Pasadena’s history, adding real value to our shared interests and lifestyle.”
Looking Ahead
A closed-session City Council meeting on September 4, 2024, [CLICK HERE] will discuss the future of the museum. Many community members are calling on the Council to retract the eviction notice and renew SPPF’s lease, emphasizing the importance of the museum to the city’s cultural fabric and the need for cooperation and transparency in this decision.
As the situation unfolds, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that preserves this valued institution and maintains South Pasadena’s connection to its past.
Note: This article will be updated with new information as it becomes available.
