Pasadena City Council to Consider Resolution For Ballot Measures

The Pasadena City Council will consider a resolution that will place three proposed charter amendments on the November 5 general municipal election ballot. 

The measures address Council appointment procedures, term limits, and changes to campaign contribution limits.

The resolutions, approved during a meeting on July 29, will ask voters to consider amendments to the Pasadena City Charter, Article IV. The proposed changes cover:

1. Council and Mayoral Vacancies: Introducing special elections for Council district vacancies for vacant seats with unexpired terms of two or more years, and modifying the appointment process for vacancies with less than two years remaining. The amendments also include a new requirement for a 30-day residency in Pasadena for appointees and recognizing “death” as a cause for vacancy.
2. Vice Mayor and Acting Mayor: Establishing annual elections for the Vice Mayor at the December Organizational Meeting, with a one-year term, and creating an Acting Mayor position to temporarily fill the Mayor’s role in the event of a vacancy.
3. Term Limits and Campaign Contribution Limits: Implementing term limits of no more than three consecutive terms for both the Mayor and City Council members, with a four-year hiatus required before serving additional terms. Additionally, amendments will restrict changes to campaign contribution limits and mandate regular reviews of Council compensation.

The City Council has also authorized the printing and mailing of a voter information pamphlet, which will cost an estimated $125,000. The pamphlet will provide detailed information on the six city ballot measures.

The changes were recommended by the City’s Charter Study Task Force.