The South Pasadena City Council is set to convene for its regular meeting on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 7:00 PM at City Hall.
South Pasadena residents can, and are encourages to, attend either in person or via ‘zoom’. Remote attendees are allowed to participate with live public comment. Click Here for that link.
With a full agenda, the meeting will cover a range of municipal issues, from financial approvals and parking enforcement to zoning amendments and Fourth of July celebrations.
Here’s what residents should know before the session.
Public Participation and Engagement
Public comments will be accepted in multiple formats, including in-person, via ‘zoom’, phone, or written submissions by 12:00 PM on the meeting day.
Closed Session Highlights
Prior to the open session, the City Council will hold a closed-door meeting at 5:30 PM to discuss key matters:
- Real Property Negotiations: The Council will consider negotiations for 14 properties throughout the city, including sites on Columbia Street, Fairview Avenue, and Orange Grove Avenue. Discussions will be conducted with CalTrans regarding price and terms of payment.
- Labor Negotiations: City officials will meet with representatives from the South Pasadena Police Officers’ Association, Firefighters’ Association, and other employee groups to discuss labor agreements and compensation.
Any reportable action taken in the closed session will be announced during the open session.
Agenda Highlights
Consent Calendar & Financial Approvals
The Council will consider approving prepaid warrants totaling over $1.4 million and general city warrants of approximately $679,000.
Another item includes a $112,260 task order with Pacifica Services, Inc. for energy design services, specifically for a Level 3 electric vehicle charger installation at the South Pasadena Police Department parking lot.
An additional $31,375 amendment to a professional services agreement with Chawkins Communications Consulting, Inc. will also be reviewed, pushing the total contract value to $85,000.
Policy and Ordinance Discussions
- Zoning Code Overhaul: The Council will discuss eliminating the Design Review Board, shifting responsibilities to city staff, and revising zoning codes to align with state law, including provisions for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
- Cultural Heritage Commission Amendments: Changes under consideration include extending the expiration period for Certificates of Appropriateness from 18 to 24 months and increasing minor project review thresholds.
- Overnight Parking & 72-Hour Violation Enforcement: The Council will determine whether to reinstate enforcement for these regulations.
Solid Waste & Sustainability Initiatives
A significant policy discussion will focus on compliance with Senate Bill 1383. The Council is expected to direct staff to negotiate an amendment to the city’s contract with Athens Services, which would introduce a third waste stream for recyclables.
Fourth of July Fireworks Debate
One of the more anticipated discussions will center on the city’s 2025 Independence Day celebration. The Council will consider whether to maintain a traditional fireworks display or transition to a drone-based light show.
Public Input & Next Steps
Residents are encouraged to provide input on these matters, particularly concerning changes to parking regulations and zoning ordinances. The Council’s decisions could have lasting impacts on property owners, businesses, and city services.
Following this meeting, the Council has scheduled a special joint session with the Planning Commission on March 26. The next regular meeting is set for April 16, as the April 2 meeting has been canceled.
For more details, visit the city’s website or tune in to the live broadcast. Stay informed with The South Pasadenan for updates on these critical discussions.
