The Maxwell House is owned by the City of Pasadena and leased to the Western Justice Center for $1 a year (Photos – Western Justice Center)
At its February 10 meeting, the Pasadena City Council addressed a range of public concerns, including police accountability, tenant protections, and homelessness resources.
By Nicolas Perez
A speaker requested the council agendize a bill on police shootings, to which Councilmember Hampton confirmed it was already scheduled for discussion. Another speaker advocated for an underground project and acknowledged three Super Bowl award recipients, including two pastors and the national NAACP president.
Calls for Enhanced Tenant Protections and Housing Reforms
Housing issues dominated public comment, with multiple speakers urging the council to implement stronger tenant protections. One speaker proposed a balanced eviction protection plan that would shield tenants from displacement while ensuring landlords do not suffer financial losses. Others criticized conditions at the Pasadena Civic Center, arguing that, despite significant resources flowing into the city, they are not being properly allocated to aid those in need. Several speakers emphasized the necessity of keeping the Civic Center open until an alternative shelter is established, citing the presence of families with children. Calls for increased affordable housing incentives, rent stabilization, and measures to combat price gouging were echoed by multiple attendees. A Zoom participant criticized the city’s lack of transparency regarding the closure of a shelter, noting that many of the center’s residents had already been unhoused prior to a fire that further displaced them.
$24.4 million Tech Contract and Zoning Ordinance Update
Following public comments, the council moved on to budgetary decisions, including a major tech contract. During the consent calendar, the council approved a $24.4 million technology contract with CDW, extending through 2034. The Chief Information Officer explained that the funds would be allocated for purchasing equipment and supplies across city departments, with discounts ranging from 3-15% based on bulk purchasing. While Councilmember Cole expressed concern over outsourcing the contract to an out-of-city firm, staff clarified that the agreement complements existing procurement methods. Additionally, the council unanimously approved a zoning ordinance modification.
Post-Fire Recovery and Environmental Testing
Officials provided updates on post-fire recovery efforts, detailing the involvement of multiple agencies, including the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. A January 31 environmental survey reported no elevated levels of toxic metals such as lead or arsenic, and soil testing is currently underway at high-risk sites, including schools. Residents were advised to conduct thorough cleaning before testing, as studies indicate that up to 90% of contaminants can be removed beforehand. FEMA is offering $300 in financial assistance for cleanup efforts.
Debate Erupts Over Conditional Use Permit for Western Justice Center’s Wedding Events
One of the most contentious discussions centered on an appeal regarding the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the Western Justice Center (WJC) at the Maxwell House. Residents and nonprofit representatives debated the future of the venue’s wedding events. Supporters, including WJC board members, local business owners, and nonprofit representatives, argued that event revenue is essential for maintaining the center’s nonprofit initiatives and preserving the historic building. They highlighted that the Maxwell House generates between $400,000 and $550,000 annually, with wedding rentals supplementing its operational budget.
Opponents, primarily nearby residents, voiced concerns over noise disturbances, lease violations, and the legality of hosting for-profit events at a nonprofit facility. One resident asserted that the lease explicitly prohibits such activities and argued that weddings inherently violate noise ordinances. In response, WJC representatives emphasized their commitment to addressing community concerns by implementing security measures, scheduled inspections, and stricter adherence to noise regulations.
The council has yet to reach a final decision regarding the CUP appeal.
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