Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris headlines a panel of four leaders tackling the often controversial topic of public safety. Organized by Pasadena District 2 Councilmember-elect Rick Cole, the Tuesday, July 16 event is the third in a series of Issue Forums, including past sessions on affordable housing and future water supply.
“Too often the discussion of keeping our neighborhoods safe comes down to attitudes about policing,” Cole noted. “Yet we know that in Pasadena the role of the community is just as important.”
Chief Harris will be joined on the panel moderated by Cole by retired judge Phil Argento, who serves on the Citizen Police Oversight Commission; business leader and Planning Commissioner Steve Olivas; and Selina Ho, a data analyst for the Vera Institute of Justice, which researches and advocates for criminal justice reform.
“Public safety must truly be a full community effort that emphasizes prevention, intervention and law enforcement,” Olivas observed. “We are the ones who decide how safe our streets are going to be. The security and wellbeing of our neighborhoods and our residents depends on committing our talent, resources and support to the organizations and programs that truly make an impact in our community. Together, I’m convinced we can make Pasadena can be the safest city in Southern California.”
The Issue Forum takes place from 6:30 to 8 pm on Tuesday, July 16 at the Jefferson School Auditorium, 1500 E. Villa. Ample parking is available with bus access on Pasadena Transit Route 40. The program will be taped for later availability. Light refreshments will be served.
“During the March election, I focused on a common sense approach to issues, including public safety,” Cole declared. “Clearly that resonated with the voters of District 2. The goal of these forums is to discuss and debate our priorities, airing the best ideas with the goal of not only informing residents, but mobilizing them to take an active part in making a safer, greener and more affordable city.”
Cole takes office as a Councilmember in December.
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