PASADENA – SAFE, BEAUTIFUL, AND PROSPEROUS

Land Use: In the near future, Pasadena will soon begin the process of updating the General Plan and its Land Use Element that established the intensity of development and directed future development away from residential neighborhoods. The last review of this element of the General Plan was five years ago. The Plan placed higher density projects (including mixed-use buildings) in areas more oriented to transit and pedestrian use. The good news is that there is a high expectation for public participation and input in this review process. This will be your opportunity to be heard about how you believe development has affected your quality of life and the time for you to express your opinion of future development in Pasadena.

Business and Residential Growth: Business and residential growth in District 7 has reached, and in some cases far exceeded, natural limits. When existing structures, businesses and infrastructure reach the end of their useful lifespan and need to be replaced, the primary consideration must be the quality of life of the district’s residents. There must be a balanced approach taken where the impact of new construction is measured against the resident’s interest and the interests of commercial enterprise. Within residential areas of District 7, design, compatibility, use, size and capacity of homes, townhouses, condominiums, apartments, flats and home offices must be appropriately considered so that the interests of property owners and surrounding residents are properly protected.

Preservation of Historic Buildings and Neighborhoods:
I strongly support preservation of historic buildings and architecturally significant homes in the neighborhoods of District 7 and throughout our beautiful city. Pasadena is world renowned for its architectural heritage, and very few cities quite like it exist. Our respect for and appreciation of our historic homes and neighborhoods are two of the qualities that set us apart from other cities.

My husband and I fell in love with Madison Heights 27 years ago when we purchased and lived in a duplex on South Madison Avenue and lovingly restored it. We have since purchased and have lived in two architecturally significant homes on Madison Avenue in Madison Heights. All three houses, built in the early 1900s, were in states of major disrepair, and we have restored them to their former glory. I support preservation and will work to keep our neighborhoods unique through education, incentives and regulation.

Business Districts: District 7 contains two main business districts: South Lake Avenue from Colorado Boulevard to California Boulevard, and the Colorado Boulevard corridor from El Molino Avenue to San Gabriel Boulevard. It is imperative that these business districts be successful and profitable, while providing services for the surrounding areas. Sales and business taxes comprise a major source of funding for city services. A vibrant business environment is crucial to the vitality of Pasadena. Let’s work together to promote a “Shop Hometown – Shop Pasadena” campaign and keep our dollars in Pasadena.

South Lake Avenue Business District: Many challenges face the South Lake Avenue Business District: store vacancies, parking problems, traffic congestion, transients, all made worse by the steep economic downturn. A South Lake Avenue with specialty shops, cafes and boutiques, and compatible office tenants, all anchored by the newly reopened Macy’s, with an emphasis on easy pedestrian access and convenient parking, would create a unique and inviting shopping and business experience that would bring South Lake Avenue back to life. I will work with neighborhood associations, merchants, and business associations to revitalize South Lake Avenue.

Colorado Boulevard Business District: The eastern portion of Colorado Boulevard is experiencing some of the same challenges as South Lake Avenue, with store vacancies and struggling businesses. These businesses need to be supported by local residents to keep them viable. I will work with neighborhood associations, merchants, and business associations to promote and encourage sustainable business enterprises on East Colorado. Additionally, occupancy issues are always a concern at local motels in that area. Pasadena does not want parolees, registered sex offenders and prostitution activity in or around these motels. There has been a recent series of kidnappings where victims are picked up along Colorado Boulevard and transported to other locations where they are sexually assaulted. We must support the Pasadena Police Department in their crime fighting efforts in this area to stop this criminal activity. Also, we must be assured that enterprises, such as motels, are complying with their conditional use permits so that the neighborhoods remain safe and beautiful. I will work with city departments to ensure appropriate use of the properties.

Safety and Security in District 7 Homes and Neighborhoods:
As Chief of Los Angeles County Police (recently retired) and former Deputy Chief of LAPD (retired), I am fully committed to keep our city safe. I have and will continue to work with Chief Melekian and members of the Pasadena Police Department in support of programs and strategies designed to protect against crime in our neighborhoods. We have recently had crime issues in District 7. Home invasion burglaries, thefts of property, trespassing and other incidents, including the sexual battery of a student at Blair High School during school hours, have occurred. These crimes should not happen in District 7, just as they should not happen anywhere. With 40 years of service as a police officer, I have vast experience in addressing crime issues.

Disaster Preparedness: Many of us do not seriously prepare for the potential of disaster. Even after September 11, 2001 and the Katrina experience in New Orleans, the idea that something terrible could happen in our idyllic neighborhoods and comfortable homes seems remote. However, experts at Cal Tech tell us that it is not “if” but “when” an earthquake of magnitude 7.8 will be a major disruptive force in our region. Many of you may not be aware that there are private and public programs that can help you and your family members prepare. As a career law enforcement officer, I have established relationships that will facilitate partnerships between the City of Pasadena and Los Angeles County to bring resource information concerning those programs to you. But, the key is self reliance. You must be prepared to take care of yourself and your family for at least three days without outside support, which may not be available.