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South Pasadena commission deadlocks on ordinance to set 2026 meeting schedule
Summary
The commission declined to adopt an ordinance establishing its 2026 regular meeting dates and times after a 2-2 roll call split, leaving staff to consult the city attorney on whether City Council must set the schedule. Commissioners cited poor communication and lack of prior input.
Deputy Director Melissa Snyder presented an ordinance intended to formally set the Community Services Commission's 2026 meeting date, time and place in order to comply with recent municipal code amendments. The proposed ordinance, presented as "ordinance number 20 26 - 01," implements changes from a City Council-adopted amendment to Chapter 2 of the South Pasadena Municipal Code (Ordinance 2406) that requires commissions to establish meeting schedules by legislative action.
A motion to adopt the ordinance was made and seconded. During roll call Vice Chair Plotkin said, "Based on just poor communications, I vote no." Commissioner Bagaso also voted no; Commissioners Lai and Weinberger voted yes. The motion did not carry.
Why it matters: The municipal code changes adjust commissions' meeting frequency to every other month and require a formal schedule; without the commission-approved schedule staff said they must check with the city attorney whether City Council must set the meeting dates by ordinance. The failed vote left the commission uncertain whether a February meeting will stand; staff committed to consult the city attorney and notify commissioners of next steps.
Commissioners discussed options including scheduling special meetings to ensure timely consideration of important items (for example, the Festival of Balloons vendor contracting). One commissioner proposed a special meeting on February 9; staff agreed to confirm whether that date is permissible following the city attorney’s guidance.
Next steps: Staff will consult the city attorney and report back to the commission. The commission may revisit the ordinance after additional members are seated or may ask City Council to set the schedule if required.
