Pasadena places Measure PFD on ballot to fund fire upgrades; estimated $22.1 million annually

Pasadena city council voted to place a parcel tax called Measure PFD on the November ballot that, according to the broadcast, would levy roughly $19 per square foot on improved properties to generate about $22,100,000 a year dedicated to fire and emergency services.

Host Justin Chapman listed planned uses restricted to the measure: retrofitting Fire Stations 33 and 37; wildfire prevention and brush clearance programs; upgrades to 9-1-1 communications; replacing firefighting equipment and expanding paramedic response; constructing or modernizing emergency response facilities; establishing a dedicated fire headquarters and training center; and expanding staffing and emergency-preparedness programs. Chapman said the tax would expire after 14 years unless voters extend it; the broadcast did not include an ordinance text or council vote tally.