Councilmember Elect Cole Invites Public to Community Swearing In

The day before being officially sworn in as the newest member of the City Council next Monday, Rick Cole will hold a “Community Swearing In” on Sunday, December 8th from 3-5 pm at the Jivalagian Center, 2242 E. Foothill in District 2.

“The installation at City Hall is traditionally a very formal event,” Cole explained. “Because ours was a grassroots campaign, we’re continuing that spirit with a more accessible opportunity for everyone to participate – District 2 residents, campaign volunteers and the larger Pasadena community.  Since the March election, I’ve continued to knock on doors to talk to residents and held a series of Issue Forums with the goal of encouraging greater citizen participation. I look forward to joining the Mayor and my colleagues on the Council to draw on the incredible energy and talent among our citizens to make Pasadena safer, greener and more affordable.”

The event features music, dance and a range of refreshments from local businesses.

Councilmember Jess Rivas will act as Master of Ceremony.

“I’m excited that Rick is bringing City Hall to the community,” Rivas stated. “I look forward to serving with him on the Council and finding ways to bring City government directly to the people.”

Cole’s symbolic oath will be administered by Mayor Victor Gordo.

“Taking the oath to serve all residents, regardless of whom they may have voted for, is the linchpin of our democracy,” Mayor Gordo commented. “I look forward to swearing in Councilmember-Elect Rick Cole because I know he believes in and will uphold this important American ideal.”

Cole will be introduced by his campaign co-chair, Lena Kennedy, sister of the late Councilmember John J. Kennedy.

“I am proud to celebrate democracy and the choice of District 2 voters,” Kennedy stated. “Rick is committed to continuing my brother’s legacy of ensuring no one is left behind. Councilmember Rick Cole exemplifies integrity and respect, with decisions that reflect his dedication to One Pasadena. He is a true advocate for the people, and our family could not be prouder of our friend.”

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) Pasadena Chapter Chairman Danny Donabedian declared, “We appreciate Councilmember-Elect Cole’s profound commitment to meeting the needs and expectations of the District’s thriving Armenian American community. We endorsed and actively supported him and are proud to co-host his Community Swearing-In event at the Jivalagian Youth Center.”

Cole previously served 12 years representing District 2 from 1983-95, including terms as both Vice Mayor and Mayor. He went on to a career in city executive leadership as City Manager in three California cities, Azusa, Ventura and Santa Monica, as well as serving as Deputy Mayor for Budget and Innovation in the City of Los Angeles. He currently works as the Chief Deputy Controller for LA. He’s earned numerous honors, including recognition as one of Governing Magazine’s “Public Officials of the Year” and awards for excellence in municipal management from the American Society for Public Administration and the Municipal Management Association of Southern California. The Los Angeles Times called him “one of Southern California’s most visionary planning thinkers.” Cole teaches urban policy as an associate professor at Occidental College and an adjunct professor at Pepperdine University’s School of Public Policy.

Cole received 60% of the votes in the March primary, becoming the first in Pasadena history to have twice defeated incumbents to win election to the City Council. He lives in the Bungalow Heaven neighborhood.

Anyone interested in attending can RSVP with an email to team@coleforcouncil.com by Saturday noon.