South Pasadena residents and stakeholders are gearing up for a significant City Council meeting on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM, held in theCouncil Chambers at 1424 Mission Street. With a packed agenda addressing key issues, the meeting will set the tone for the city’s governance and priorities in the upcoming year.
Key Decisions and Leadership Transition
This meeting marks a major transition as the Council welcomes newly elected members Omari Ferguson (District 1), Sheila Rossi (District 2), and incumbent Jon Primuth (District 3, unopposed). Each will take their oaths of office, after which the Council will elect the 2025 Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, signifying a fresh chapter for South Pasadena’s leadership. A 30-minute public reception in the City Hall courtyard will follow the reorganization, allowing residents to meet their representatives and celebrate the city’s democratic process.
Critical Agenda Items to Watch
1. Measure SP Implementation: Charting the City’s Future Voters approved Measure SP in the November 2024 election, setting the stage for discussions on its implementation. Measure SP was designed to comply with California’s state-mandated housing requirements, which demand South Pasadena plan for 2,067 additional housing units with a 708-unit buffer.
Key areas such as Downtown South Pasadena (portions of Mission Street and Fair Oaks Avenue), Huntington Drive, and The Ostrich Farm (Pasadena Avenue) will see zoning adjustments to support this growth. This discussion will be pivotal in ensuring the city balances much-needed housing development while preserving the charm and character that make South Pasadena unique.
2. Reorganizing City Commissions: The Council will consider dissolving the Design Review Board (DRB), redirecting its responsibilities to other commissions or city staff. Additionally, discussions will focus on consolidating the Mobility and Transportation Infrastructure Commission and Public Works Commission into one body. This move aims to improve efficiency in addressing infrastructure needs, while the Natural Resources and Environmental Commission will be restructured to meet less frequently.
These proposed changes could simplify the city’s governance structure and streamline decision-making, but could also leave out more granular South Pasadena citizen representation.
3. Public Hearing on Solid Waste Rates: Solid waste rates, including those for organic waste, are up for review in a public hearing. With adjustments set to take effect on January 1, 2025, the proposed rate changes are essential to maintaining and improving waste collection, recycling, and disposal services. Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions and concerns during this hearing.
4. Sidewalk Replacement and ADA Ramp Project: Infrastructure improvements will also be on the agenda as the Council considers awarding a $525,000 construction contract for the Sidewalk Replacement & ADA Ramps Project. The funding, sourced from Community Development Block Grants and Measure M funds, underscores the city’s commitment to accessibility and safety for all pedestrians.
5. Supporting Community Projects
- The Council will review a $1,000 discretionary fund allocation to support the South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Committee in decorating its float.
- Senior citizens will benefit from a $750 sponsorship allocation for upcoming holiday and Lunar New Year events.
6. South Pasadena Historical Museum Agreement: The Council will vote on a lease agreement with the South Pasadena Preservation Foundation for the operation of the South Pasadena Historical Museum. This agreement also includes imposed provisions for the South Pasadena Chamber of Commerce to use part of the museum building for tasks related to the city’s Farmers’ Market.
Community Participation Opportunities
Residents can engage in several ways:
- In Person: Attend at the Council Chambers, 1424 Mission Street.
- Virtually: Join via Zoom (Meeting ID: 825 9999 2830).
- Written Comments: Submit by email to [email protected] no later than 12:00 PM on December 18.
For those unable to attend, the meeting will be live-streamed on the City’s website CLICK HERE
