On Wednesday, September 16, 2026, local leadership will gather to address core civic issues. Mayor Sheila Rossi and the South Pasadena City Council will host a special Study Session at 6:00 p.m., directly followed by the Regular Council Meeting at 7:00 p.m. Both sessions will take place at the Amedee O. “Dick” Richards Jr. Council Chambers, located at 1424 Mission Street.
Before the main agenda kicks off, the council will dedicate the 6:00 p.m. Study Session entirely to Chapter 19A of the South Pasadena Municipal Code. This chapter governs the city’s noise regulations, a frequent and passionate topic of neighborhood discussion. The session is designed to provide direction to staff on potential amendments that could alter how we measure and manage local sound levels.
Safeguarding Shared Public Spaces
During the 7:00 p.m. regular meeting, the spotlight will briefly turn to our local library. The agenda features a “Through the Decades Library Campaign” presentation celebrating the institution’s legacy. Following this, the council will consider the second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2421. This ordinance will formally amend rules related to library visitation privileges and establish an administrative appeal process for any suspensions.
Preparing for the Season of Giving
Even in September, South Pasadena is looking ahead to the winter holidays. The council will deliberate on whether the city should officially host and produce the 2026 Holiday Lighting Ceremony. Crucial decisions will be made regarding the rental or purchase of an artificial holiday tree, alongside authorizing the City Manager to execute related event agreements.
A Broader Civic Agenda
The evening’s extensive docket covers a wide range of civic responsibilities, balancing immediate infrastructure needs with long-term community planning.
• Traffic and Infrastructure: The council will consider approving a $758,526 agreement with Willdan Engineering for the North South Corridor Fair Oaks Avenue project.
• Fire Safety: A $65,283 contract with Emergency Services Consulting International is proposed to prepare a strategic plan and community risk assessment.
• Food Recovery: The city may continue its participation in the FRESH SGV Regional Food Recovery Program, running through June 30, 2028.
Civic participation remains the cornerstone of our community’s character. Residents are highly encouraged to attend in person at 1424 Mission Street, South Pasadena, CA 91030. If you cannot make it to the chambers, Chief City Clerk Nikima Newsome has ensured multiple remote participation options are available.
• Zoom: Join using Meeting ID 825 9999 2830.
• Live Broadcast: Available via the city’s streaming portal at spectrumstream.com/streaming/south_pasadena/live.cfm.
• Written Comments: Must be submitted by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting by emailing [email protected].
