Pasadena City Council Meeting: September 15, 2026

The Pasadena City Council’s special meeting on September 15, 2026, considered utility financing and a proposed home-kitchen business pilot. On a unanimous vote, the Council adopted the second reading of an ordinance authorizing up to $14 million in 2026A electric revenue refunding bonds, payable from the Light and Power Fund, and approving related bond-agreement and disclosure documents. No vendor or procurement contract was awarded. Public commenters also urged the City to delay any long-term lease or operating arrangement for the Pasadena Equestrian Center, citing concerns about Rose Bowl Riders’ governance, finances, and proposed transfer of assets; the Council took no lease action during the meeting.

The Council discussed a proposed two-year microenterprise home-kitchen operations pilot. Staff described startup and enforcement costs, with estimates discussed of approximately $150,000 for year one and up to $225,000, and no funding source identified; inspection fees were expected to recover only some costs. Rather than approve the proposed ordinance, the Council voted to send the matter back to the Economic Development and Technology Committee for further review, including program costs, safeguards, community interest, and experience in other jurisdictions. The meeting also included discussion of developing citywide rules for AI use, but no policy decision was made.