Measure I Funds Used for Police, Library, Jackie Robinson Center Projects

Funding from the city’s three-quarter cent sales tax has been earmarked for several high priority projects according to City Manager Steve Mermell.

The Capital Improvement Budget included $9.4 million in General Funds for various projects, including fire station renovations and improvements, replacement of 911 emergency radio communication equipment for the Police and Fire Departments, roof and HVAC system replacements at La Pintoresca Library and Jackie Robinson Center, accelerated sidewalk repair and replacement; conversion of high-voltage street lights to a more reliable low-voltage system and the design of an upgraded sprinkler and fire alarm system at Central Library.

The Council has also appropriated funds towards to fully fund the replacement of the Police Department computer aided dispatch system (CADRMS).

The city has also hired a full-time site coordinator at Washington Park and a case manager to continue the city’s homeless outreach efforts.

“The investments made possible by voter approval of Measure I greatly benefit our community and improve public safety. Mermell told Pasadena Now. “First and foremost, Measure I prevented the city from having to make even more painful budget reductions following three straight years of cuts. Measure I has also provided for investment in much-needed capital projects. To name just a few, by providing our Police and Fire Departments with new 911 communication equipment we can maintain response times and ensure that our first responders remain in constant communication with one another when responding to emergencies and calls for service; by repairing broken sidewalks we ensure that they are safe for all residents to traverse, particularly the elderly and those with limited mobility, and providing effective street lighting promotes neighborhood safety and quality of life.”

Following three years of budget cuts, voters passed Measure I, a three-quarter-cent sales tax increase which was passed by voters in the last election. The tax raises about $21 million a year.

A companion measure allows the city to use proceeds of the tax hike, up to $7 million, to help fund local schools. So far, the money is being used to replenish the district’s state-mandated reserve fund.

Earlier this month, the City Council voted to direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance amending the city’s municipal code to change the name of the Human Services and Recreation Department to the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department. The proposed changes are also expected to relieve the burden on the Public Works Department by allowing the department to focus more closely on a growing number of capital projects, that came about due to Measure I.