Pasadena Police Helicopter above the Rose Bowl (File Photo – PPD)
The Pasadena City Council discussed the traditional length of tenure for a Vice Mayor and allocated funds to Trinity Lutheran Church.
By Andrew Sweet
Vice Mayor Tenure and Election
Monday, Dec. 8, marked the Pasadena City Council’s annual election of the Vice Mayor. The responsibilities include leading council meetings when the Mayor is absent and enacting various legislative measures.
During the discussion, Mayor Victor Gordo raised the possibility of moving to a two-year term, spacing out elections rather than holding them annually.
“Personally, I think the one-year policy makes sense; doing the two-year terms makes the assumption that the senior members of the council never again get elected as vice mayor,” disagreed Councilmember Jason Lyon, District 7.
Based on the council’s traditional seniority rotation, the next in line was Justin Jones, District 3. Councilmember Tyron Hampton, District 1, spoke passionately about Jones’s place in line. Councilmember Jessica Rivas, District 5, served as the current vice mayor.
After discussion, the Council agreed to continue with a one-year term and not amend any policy. In a 6–2 motion, Rivas was reelected vice mayor, with Jones expected to be considered in December 2026 based on seniority.
Police Contract and Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Budget Approved
Following public comment, the Council spoke with members of the Pasadena Police Department about entering a contract to purchase two mission-equipped helicopters, along with allocating $4,000,000 to the 2026 Operating Budget.
Police representatives argued that the new helicopters would “decrease the transportation time” of personnel, improving efficiency. The department currently operates aircraft dating back to 1971 and 1972, raising concerns about reliability and maintenance.
In a quick motion, the Council also approved funds for the renovation of the Bad Weather Shelter at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Pasadena. A total of $240,860 will be appropriated from the general fund, supplementing the initial December 2023 allocation of $275,000. The funding will support bathroom and kitchen upgrades and add additional beds for those in need of shelter.
Committee on Planning, Housing, and Homelessness Formed
In a unanimous vote, the Council approved the creation of a committee focused on reviewing land-use and transportation issues, along with housing policies. The committee will aim to address ongoing challenges around affordable housing.
Councilmember Steve Madison, District 6, questioned why homelessness wasn’t specifically identified as the centerpiece of the committee’s work. The Council discussed potentially amending the name and responsibilities to reflect that focus.
The committee will meet on alternate Mondays when the Finance Committee does not. The Mayor will appoint up to four members of the Council to serve, with the group expected to begin work in the coming months.
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