Mayor Victor Gordo delivering his speech at the State of the City Address 2023 (Photo – Screengrab, Pasadena Media)
At an event at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine (KPSM) in Pasadena on February 23, 2023, Mayor Victor Gordo described Pasadena as “Thriving” in his 2023 State of the City address.
By Garrett Rowlan
Master of the ceremonies was Vice Mayor Felicia Williams. The Mayor’s keynote was preceded by a “Welcome to KKPSM” from Dean and CEO Dr. Mark Schuster, a student welcome from Noah Contreras of the class of 2026, a chamber music performance by the Blair Vikings High School Strings Quartet and a State of the City video with highlights of 2022.
Mayor ‘s State of the City struck a note of prudent optimism in the face of inequality, homelessness and mental health issues made worse by the pandemic. From an administrative standpoint, turnover due to department head and staff retirements also caused instability.
“Facing instability,” Gordo proclaimed, “we created stability,” This was particularly true financially, where property and sales tax have boosted the general fund to a robust $303 million, although the Mayor noted that the City’s finances are not immune to inflation.
Challenges remain. While Pasadena is stable, the State of California is experiencing a $30 billion shortfall. Gordo said 2023 will require a delicate balance and careful planning. Particularly crucial is the 710 corridor project, although the housing shortage, safety issues, the Central Library restoration and support of the public schools are among other salient concerns.
Gordo remained optimistic. “We dream,” Gordo said. “But we’re gonna dream big.”
The City’s 2022 Annual Report is available for review at this link.
Mike Pashistoran contributed to this article.
Blair Vikings Strings Quartet performing at the State of the City 2023 (Photo – Mike Pashistoran)
> Watch the State of the City 2023 video below:
[This articles has been updated to include additional speakers and a writer/contributor. Feb. 24, 2023. 10:12 pm.]
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Local politician gives speech about how “I’m doing a great job, actually, everyone is doing great.”
Unsaid of course was “Never mind my massive defeat on rent control which I said was going to destroy Pasadena.”
I guess Pasadena will be ok with rent control after all.