Pasadena prepares for pivotal charter amendment vote

In a recent city council meeting, officials unanimously approved resolutions to place a charter amendment ballot measure before voters during the November 5, 2024 general election. This measure pertains to the selection of fire and police trustees for the Fire and Police Retirement System Board, aiming to ensure that the board remains representative of its aging constituency.

Council members expressed gratitude for the service of the Fire and Police Retirement System (FPRS) members and confirmed that the city attorney had reviewed and approved the ballot language. The FPRS chair will coordinate the arguments for the ballot measure, which is designed to enhance representation within the board.

Additionally, the council discussed an ordinance amending Title 10 of the Pasadena Municipal Code, which focuses on vehicles and traffic. This ordinance received unanimous approval during its first reading.

The meeting also included a detailed report from the city’s run stabilization department regarding the upcoming municipal election. The council is set to consolidate Pasadena's municipal elections with statewide elections, which will be managed by the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder County Clerk. This consolidation aims to streamline the election process and reduce costs.

The proposed charter amendment seeks to align definitions related to senior and disabled individuals with state law, exempt certain government-subsidized housing from rent control, and clarify eviction rules, among other updates. The estimated budget for the election is $550,000, with additional costs of approximately $80,000 anticipated for each ballot measure.

The council is expected to finalize the designation of members to prepare arguments for the ballot measure in the coming meetings, ensuring that the community's voice is adequately represented in the upcoming election.