South Pasadena shifts teen services focus to robust volunteer program

The South Pasadena Community Services Commission convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss various community service initiatives and budgetary considerations. The meeting focused on youth engagement, budget allocations for community services, and operational expenses.

The first significant topic addressed was the need for a more effective program for local youth. A proposal was made to shift from a traditional teen center, which has seen low participation, to a more robust volunteer program aimed at teens. This change is intended to better align with the interests of South Pasadena's youth, many of whom seek volunteer opportunities for service learning hours or college applications. The commission anticipates that this new approach will be implemented during the summer.

The discussion then moved to budget projections, particularly concerning the potential costs associated with community events, including fireworks for July 2026. The commission projected an expense of $75,000 for a hybrid fireworks display, which is still subject to approval from the city council and further budget reviews. Concerns were raised about the implications of budget reallocations, particularly if the council decides to revert to traditional fireworks, which could result in a loss of allocated funds for community services.

Inflation and its impact on budget planning were also highlighted. Commission members discussed the importance of considering inflation when projecting costs for office supplies and other necessary expenses. While the current budget request aimed for a status quo approach, there was consensus on the need to account for potential increases in goods and services.

Further discussions included the rising costs associated with senior services, particularly the newsletter, which has seen a significant increase due to a shift to a local print shop for production and mailing. This change is expected to save staff time, although it raises questions about budget management.

The meeting also touched on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), which supports senior nutrition programs, and the complexities surrounding property owners association dues related to transit planning and parking facilities in the area.

In conclusion, the commission's meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance community services in South Pasadena, particularly for youth and seniors, while navigating budgetary constraints and operational challenges. The commission plans to continue refining its strategies and will present further updates in future meetings.