Library, Planning Budget Discussions Scheduled For Legislative Policy Committee

Budget workshops kick into high gear this week starting at the Legislative Policy Committee.

The committee will hold budget workshops on the City’s Libraries and Information Services and Planning and Community Development departments.

The City Manager is recommending a $16,784,344 budget for library services and $26,889,582 for the planning department.

The City Council opened budget hearings on Monday, May 6th, and will conclude them on May 28th.

Meanwhile, the citywide operating budget is currently scheduled for adoption on June 10.

City Manager Miguel Márquez is recommending a $1.147 billion budget, which includes appropriations for the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and the City’s affiliated agencies (Rose Bowl Operating Company, Pasadena Center Operating Company, and Pasadena Community Access Corporation). This is slightly down from last year’s $1.2 billion budget.

The City’s utility, Pasadena Water and Power has the highest departmental budget at $345,312,250, followed by the Police Department with a $111,078,762 budget. The Public Works Department has a $93,527,291 recommended budget. The City’s Fire Department has a $69,274,048 budget and the Housing Department will receive $46,447,327 to round out the top five.

The budget process involved the City Manager, department heads, Councilmembers, and the public. It began last summer, when the City Manager and department heads started developing the budget based on input from various departments and stakeholders.

According to the City Manager’s transmittal letter, the budget was developed with the expectation that the demand for programs, services, and events will continue regardless of the economy and a recognition that slower revenue growth and the overall economy are realities. The letter also notes that the City has thrived in many areas and is fortunate not to be in the cost reduction mode facing many other local governments. However, it emphasizes the need to continue being resourceful and creative in investing in current services, operations, and infrastructure, while adapting to the future needs of the community.

“The FY 2025 Recommended Operating Budget furthers the City’s mission to deliver exemplary municipal services responsive to our entire community consistent with our history, culture, and unique character,” Márquez wrote.

The Legislative Policy Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. at City Hall.