North Lake Specific Plan (Photo – ourpasadena)
The Pasadena City Council discussed high-profile lawsuits during closed session and considered drive-through businesses on North Lake Avenue.
By Andrew Sweet
Lawsuits over UCLA and Police Department
The council continued its ongoing dispute with the University of California, Los Angeles over its lease with the university’s football team. The team’s lease with the Rose Bowl, which runs through June 2044, has been contested by the university as it engages in talks with SoFi Stadium. While the contents of the session remain confidential, UCLA has recently filed an arbitration order against Pasadena to pause the lawsuit.
Pasadena also reviewed the Crutchfield, Shelby, White vs. City of Pasadena case, a racial discrimination lawsuit filed by three Black Pasadena officers. The officers claim harassment from non-Black colleagues and harsh disciplinary treatment.
Bike Lanes and City Manager Contract Amendment Approved
In a sweep motion, the council approved several contracts, including annual sewer system upgrades, citywide sidewalk improvements, and the installation of bike lanes on St. John Avenue.
Councilmember Rick Cole, District 2, expressed concern over the bike lanes because they would be on “fast one-way streets,” and the City Manager did not consult with bike stakeholders. Joaquin Siques, director of Pasadena’s Department of Transportation, clarified that a protected bike lane is anticipated along most of the corridor.
The sweep motion also included a third amendment to the City Manager’s contract. Miguel Marquez will now receive a base annual salary of $436,339 (a 3% wage increase) and a one-time lump-sum payment of approximately $43,634. The City Manager will also be allotted an additional 40 hours of Management Time Off.
On Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, the Pasadena City Council announced that City Manager Miguel Márquez will retire to focus on family during a time of personal need.
“This is a recognition of how difficult it has been to lead this complex specifically in the last year,” Mayor Victor Gordo said, “and for facing the fire, public safety, COVID, the government, and the ‘parade of terribles.’”
North Lake Specific Plan Passed
For the remainder of the meeting, councilmembers focused on the North Lake Specific Plan, especially the role and future of drive-through businesses in the area.
The plan, first adopted in 1997, aims to create a safer pedestrian environment. It also works to minimize increased vehicle uses, such as car sales and drive-through businesses. The areas addressed in the plan include Washington Place, Vineyard Gardens, the North Lake Village, and the Lake Station District.
Councilmember Tyron Hampton, District 1, praised the plan’s emphasis on walkability but said the number of drive-through businesses along the street felt “counterproductive.” He also raised questions about whether building heights along the corridor should be increased.
City officials initially proposed allowing drive-through businesses to undergo extensive external remodeling with permits. However, Rick Cole persuaded the council to restrict such changes, allowing only signage updates and painting rather than expansion.
Councilmember Steve Madison, District 6, voted against adopting the General Plan Map Amendment, citing the popularity of drive-throughs among residents.
The council passed the resolution in a 5–1 vote, moving the long-running planning effort another step forward.
Leave a Reply