City Hall Scoop

South Pasadena News and Updates

Thanks to Petco Foundation’s recent grant of $80,000 provided to the Care Centers, the fee to adopt a furry friend is currently waived. If you are interested in checking out some dogs and cats, visit their website to meet new furry friends digitally!

Call to schedule an adoption meeting with Care Center staff at one of their locations.(The nearest centers to South Pasadena are located in either the city of Downey or Baldwin Park.)

Please note that other fees, such as trust deposits and license fees, may still apply.

4/24/2020

Are the kids missing dance class or karate!
Need a little exercise for the family at home!
The Community Service Department may have what you are looking for. As we all adjust to the “Safer at Home” order, we are working to bring online classes to you to keep you fit mentally and physically. There are about 20 classes available now with more to come. Check out the offerings at www.southpasadenaca.gov/recreation.

If you are looking for something to fill your time or keep the kids busy for a bit, check out our Virtual Recreation at  https://www.southpasadenaca.gov/government/departments/community-services/virtual-recreation

Shelia Pautsch
Community Services Director

4/24/2020

Fire Department staff continues to be in communications with the Administrator of the South Pasadena Care Center regarding the increase in the number of positive COVID-19 patients at the facility. Currently, LA County Department of Health (LADH) is reporting 16 staff members, 37 residents who have tested positive for COVID-19. Unfortunately, there are three deaths associated with the 37 cases involving residents.

Fire Department staff continues to be in contact with LADH, our representative with the Ombudsman’s Office and Huntington Memorial Hospital to ensure the facility is adhering to LA County guidelines. On Wednesday, April 22nd, an inspection was conducted at the facility by LADH. The report indicated the Care Center is in fact following LA County Health protocols. The most urgent need in ensuring that the staff has enough PPE’s to safely treat patients. Efforts are underway to try and secure additional supplies of PPE’s for the facility. Fire Department staff will continue to monitor the situation and assist as needed. The attached link from LA County Department of Health provides daily updated numbers of confirmed cases. http://publichealth.lacounty.gov

Paul Riddle
Fire Chief

4/24/2020

On Wednesday, April 22, 2020, recognizing how difficult it is to have a happy birthday during a quarantine, members of the South Pasadena Police Officers provided an extra big surprise for 2-year-old Austin Tokoro. The Department wanted to make sure Austin had an extra reason to smile big for the camera. Justice, the Department mascot and several patrol cars were on hand to wish Austin a happy birthday. Everyone had a wonderful time, and the officers were proud to do what they could to help.

Joe Ortiz
Police Chief

4/23/2020

On April 21st, the Police Department received this thank you letter to the PD, authored by 5-year old Ava.

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The PD dropped by the author’s house today and thanked Ava for her kind words. We received the following email from Ava’s mother.

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Dear Sergeant Ronnie,

Thank you so much for dropping by to visit my daughter!  She was beyond the moon, freaking out excited, and it really made an impression on her.  She went and told all the neighbors and we’re all still talking about it.  I don’t know what else to say, other than that was really great of you all to take the time to do that. We really appreciate it. I’m very sorry I missed it (the one time in 2 weeks I go to Vons… Dangit!).

I had a talk with Chief Ortiz and Sgt. Valencia a few weeks ago about a project I’m doing and they were just as helpful and kind as you guys are.  It’s people like you that make this town so amazing.  Not a day goes by that we don’t tip our hats in awe, respect and admiration for you all and the fine work you do.  Thank you for everything!

Sincerely,
Jared, Ava and Lauren

4/23/2020

The South Pasadena Police would like to remind the members of our community to remain vigilant during these uncertain times. There has been a recent spike in the theft of gardening equipment from the back of pick-up trucks across the San Gabriel Valley. While gardeners are maintaining yards, their equipment is often left unattended. Unfortunately this creates an opportunity for thieves to not only steal the tools, but someone’s livelihood. 

Safety tips to deter thieves from stealing your equipment:

1. Secure your equipment in the back of your work trucks through some kind of locking device and or heavy duty cables which are not easily cut.
2. Have a person with your work truck at all times.
3. Carry a list of serial numbers for large items such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers…etc.
4. Take a picture of your equipment, if it is stolen you may be able to identify equipment through photographs.
5. Etch your name and an identifying symbol on your equipment.

For more information, call the South Pasadena Police Department, (626) 403-7270

Joe Oriz
Police Chief

4/23/2020

The Public Works Staff for the City of South Pasadena are here for you. Even though we are observing the requirements in the Safer at Home Order, we still continue to provide the residents of South Pasadena quality and timely services that you have grown accustomed to. You are still able to place service requests here; or contact us at 626-403-7370 and PWServiceRequest@southpasadenaca.gov. Public Works continues to answer the phone during business hours, Monday to Thursday, from 6:30 am to 5:00 pm. This week, the Park’s Division was able to put orange fencing up around playground equipment to comply with playground closure requirements in the Safer at Home Order, and responded to many tree issues related to last week’s rain event.  The Streets/Sewer Division picked up palm fronds, cleaned storm drains, filled potholes, and continue to regularly clean sewer lines. The Facilities Division Staff regularly inspect and clean City facilities, and are responding to repairs at the City CNG and EV charging station.  We hope that this finds you well, please stay safe and together we shall overcome this time of adversity. Our spirits are high, and we stand ready to help you any way we can, please do not hesitate to reach us for any service request that you may have.

Shahid Abbas
Public Works Director


4/23/2020

2020 marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, and there are many ways you can show your love of the planet even during these challenging times: from joining the worldwide switching off of nonessential lights on April 28th, to growing plants on your windowsill or in your yard.

The Library has made it easy for you to expand your green knowledge and explore earth-friendly activities by curating Earth Day collections of e-books for adults and kids on its Overdrive e-book platform. Covering topics from sustainable living, DIY, recycled crafting, water-wise and organic gardening, and stories for kids about eco heroes, the collections have something for everyone.

Cathy Billings
Library Director

4/22/2020