As South Pasadena prepares for the future, city leaders and the Finance Commission will gather to map out a balanced financial path. The proposed $86.7 million budget aims to maintain crucial community services while carefully managing city reserves to keep our neighborhoods thriving.
The hum of civic duty will echo through the Amedee O. “Dick” Richards Jr. Council Chambers tonight as residents and leaders converge for a critical look at the city’s financial horizon. It’s the time of year when numbers on a spreadsheet transform into the parks, public safety, and community programs that define daily life in South Pasadena. On Wednesday, June 10, at 6:30 p.m., the City Council and the Finance Commission will host a Special Joint Meeting at 1424 Mission Street to discuss the proposed budget.
Mapping out the City’s Financial Future
City Manager Todd Hileman and Assistant City Manager/CFO Nick Kimball are set to present the Proposed Budget to the community.
The comprehensive plan includes the Capital Improvement Plan, laying the groundwork for infrastructure upgrades across our neighborhoods.
The total proposed budget for all funds sits at approximately $86.7 million.
Within that framework, the General Fund operating budget is slated for $45.7 million, representing a balanced approach to the city’s core finances.
The proposed budget ensures that General Fund operating revenues and expenditures match up perfectly at $45.7 million.
However, city leaders are actively preparing for upcoming civic duties.
The budget outlines a proposed use of $3.14 million in reserves to fund the crucial November ’26 Election and establish reserves in Internal Service Funds.
Even with these allocations, the city remains on solid financial ground.
The projected ending unassigned General Fund reserve is approximately $13.44 million.
This robust reserve represents 29% of operating expenditures, comfortably sitting about $2.0 million above the City Council’s 25% minimum policy requirement.
What’s on the Agenda
Before diving into the proposed budget, the meeting will cover foundational financial reports.
Chief City Clerk Nikima Newsome has certified a transparent agenda to ensure residents are fully informed.
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The Finance Commission, led by Chair Sheila Rossi, will review the Treasurer’s Report for the month ending April 30, 2026.
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Officials will also vote to receive and file the April 2026 Monthly Budget Report.
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Following these items, the floor will open for the main Budget Study Session.
Make your Voice Heard
Civic participation is the lifeblood of South Pasadena, and residents are strongly encouraged to tune in or attend.
Whether you want to understand local road repairs or advocate for community services, this is your opportunity to engage directly with city governance.
The meeting will be held in-person tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Council Chambers, located at 1424 Mission Street, South Pasadena.
If you cannot attend in person, the city offers multiple ways to participate:
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Watch the live broadcast via the City website at spectrumstream.com/streaming/south_pasadena/live.cfm.
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Join virtually via Zoom using Meeting ID: 825 9999 2830.
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Call in by dialing +1-669-900-6833 and entering the same Zoom Meeting ID.
