Pasadena City College Board Approves Major Facilities Plan and Budget

The Pasadena Area Community College District Board of Trustees has approved a significant facilities plan and a tentative budget for the upcoming fiscal year, charting a course for the institution’s future.

At their June 18 meeting, the Board voted to proceed with a core set of improvements funded by Measure PCC, including a new Health & Sciences Building and renovations to existing structures.

The approved plan encompasses projects at the Rosemead Satellite Campus, solar cells over parking lots, and the modernization of several campus buildings, among other initiatives.

The Board also approved a project prioritization list including a new Student Services Building, an Annex Building, renovation of the LL, CA, CEC, and GM buildings, and swing space for other projects.

Trustees greenlit a tentative $223 million budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year, covering a range of operational accounts. The final budget will be approved in the fall, in concert with the state’s budget process.

In a ceremonial moment, Superintendent/President José Gómez administered the oath of office to Student Trustee Irene Wong, who will represent the student body on the Board.

The meeting saw the adoption of two resolutions: one commemorating Immigrant Heritage Month and another celebrating Juneteenth Independence Day. Three routine resolutions governing year-end fiscal activities were also passed.

Board members approved a hybrid work plan for classified employees, negotiated with the classified-employee union, modifying a voluntary program initiated last year.

The Board approved updates to credit and noncredit curricula and heard presentations on the Rose Fellows program and the SBDC Excellence in Innovation Award.

An amendment to the college’s agreement with software company Ellucian was approved, along with a refocus on a door-replacement project in the Center for the Arts building.

Contracts for elevator maintenance, trash hauling, insurance brokerage services, and Rose Parade bleachers were authorized.

Several personnel changes were announced, including new hires, role changes, and retirements. New hires include Frank Cardenas as interim executive director of the PCC Foundation and Elizabeth Davidson as interim director of the Women’s Business Center.

Long-serving professors Lindsey Jang and Patricia Michel are among those retiring, while others like Matthew Camara and Jennifer Marfino are leaving the institution.

The Board authorized the disposal of surplus equipment, including a sewing machine, bandsaw, and carpentry joiner, purchased with taxpayer funds.

At the meeting’s conclusion, the Board paid tribute to two individuals connected to PCC: Kelvin Chau, a recent alumnus who passed away in May, and Harry Kawahara, a former counselor who died on May 10.

The next regular Board meeting is scheduled for July 17, 4 p.m. in PCC’s Creveling Lounge.