The South Pasadena City Council is set to convene on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, for a series of meetings that will address critical issues facing the city, including proposed changes to housing regulations, significant public safety measures, and the future of major public spaces. The council will hold a closed session, a study session, and a regular meeting, all taking place at the Amedee O. “Dick” Richards Jr. Council Chambers.
Key Housing and Development Decisions on the Table
A major focus of the regular meeting will be a public hearing on proposed amendments to the city’s General Plan and zoning codes to facilitate more housing. The council will consider new height limits, density adjustments, and other development standard changes to implement state-mandated housing goals.
Another significant development item involves the potential purchase of twelve surplus residential properties from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) located in the SR 710 corridor. The council will decide whether to enter into purchase and sale agreements for these unoccupied homes.
Public Safety and Emergency Services in Focus
Public safety will be a prominent theme throughout the evening. The council will begin the day with a study session to review and discuss the Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map for South Pasadena. This includes considering amendments to the municipal code and enforcement of parking restrictions in the Monterey Hills to mitigate fire risk.
Later, during the regular meeting, the South Pasadena Police Department will present a report on its use of the Flock Safety Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) system. The council will discuss the continued deployment of this surveillance technology. Additionally, the agenda includes the proposed purchase of a new 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe to serve as a police command and response vehicle.
Future of Public Spaces and Infrastructure
The future of the Arroyo Seco Golf Course will be a key topic of discussion. City staff is recommending the issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to find a private partner for a public-private partnership (P3) to redevelop, operate, and maintain the golf course.
In addition to the golf course, the council will consider:
- A proposal for a monthly Vintage and Craft Market on Meridian Avenue
- Awarding a six-year, $4.6 million contract to Pipe Tec, Inc. for city-wide sanitary sewer cleaning and inspection
- Reviewing proposed locations for a new Throne Lab public restroom
- Discussing the status of the city’s active Mills Act contracts, which provide tax incentives for the preservation of historic properties
How to Participate
The city offers multiple options for public participation, including in-person attendance at the Council Chambers at 1424 Mission Street. The meetings will also be broadcast live online, and the public can join and provide comments via Zoom or by phone. Written public comments can be submitted via email before noon on the day of the meeting.
The series of meetings will begin with a closed session at 6:00 PM, followed by a study session at 6:15 PM, and the regular City Council meeting at 7:00 PM. The closed session includes a conference with legal counsel regarding existing litigation with Edward Munoz v. City of South Pasadena.
