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Residents push Pasadena council for transparency after overnight federal training exercise
Summary
Dozens of residents told the council about an overnight federal 'urban warfare' training in Northeast Pasadena that included helicopters and simulated explosions; callers demanded more notice and accountability, and the council pledged to press federal partners and agendaize a public‑safety follow‑up.
PASADENA, Calif. — Multiple Pasadena residents on June 8 told the City Council that an overnight federal training exercise in a vacant Northeast Pasadena building, involving helicopters and simulated explosions, caused fear and disruption and that the city’s notice and response were inadequate.
Residents described loud explosions that shook homes, late‑night activity that alarmed children and pets, and sparse advance notice. “There were explosions powerful enough to shake our home late into the night,” said Shaina Villa Lobos, who said her four‑year‑old was frightened and that the operation ran past the posted end time. Several residents said they were directed to call the Pasadena Police Department but could not obtain meaningful information.
Councilmembers said federal agencies conducted the operation and that the city had limited authority over some federal activities, but they promised to seek more information and to place the matter on the public safety committee. Mayor Gordo and other councilmembers acknowledged the trauma experienced by residents who had also lived through recent fires and said the city manager would request information from federal partners and that the city’s Public Information Officer would share updates when possible.
Vice Mayor Rivas, chair of the public‑safety committee, said the council would take up the issue so residents can receive a full briefing and so the city can better understand notification and coordination processes. Several councilmembers said they had been notified only minutes before the public notice was issued, and staff told the council they are trying to obtain federal timelines and approvals.
What happens next: Council members directed staff to pursue as much information as federal partners would permit, to update residents through the city’s communications channels when appropriate, and to agendaize a fuller public‑safety committee discussion to explore notification practices and coordination protocols with federal agencies operating in the city.
