City Hall Scoop

South Pasadena News and Updates

Friendly Reminder!

The City of South Pasadena invites all local businesses to our second Business Networking Event on Wednesday, October 12, 2022!

Join us to meet partner agencies, obtain resources, and network with other local businesses in South Pasadena.

In addition, we will be having giveaways and a raffle for a business to win a promotional video for their marketing efforts.

To RSVP, call (626) 403-7210 or email Business@southpasadenaCA.gov.

10/6/22

Our City Council and Department Directors had an insightful meeting yesterday with Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger. Thank you to the Supervisor’s entire team for attending, and we look forward to continuing these fruitful conversations about issues important to our City and residents!

10/04/22

Gas-powered leaf blowers have been banned in the City, but that’s not the only reason why you should choose electric over gas. Electric leaf blowers not only cost less over time, but they’re easier to maintain and have significantly less health risks, if any. Read below to find out more!

 Electric Leaf BlowerGas-Powered Leaf Blower
Cost$35- $150$60- $400
Health Risk  No pollutants are emitted- eliminating the risk of health issues for the operator as well as the bystanders.Toxic pollutants emitted during use such as benzine, fine particulate matter, formaldehyde, and smog-forming chemicals result in dizziness, asthma attacks, headaches, heart disease, and lung disease for the operator as well as bystanders.
NoiseWith an average wind speed of 50-100 mph, electric leaf blowers run quieter than gas-powered leaf blowers. Similar to an electric car, the electric motor makes less noise than a gas engine.The use of these leaf blowers can result in hearing loss, some gas-powered leaf blowers emit over 80 decibels. With an average wind speed of over 150 mph, gas-powered leaf blowers are very loud.
MobilityLighter in weight, about 8 pounds or less, which makes it easier to move around. Most electric leaf blowers are designed for one-handed use.Gas-powered leaf blowers range from 14 to 24 pounds, depending on the model. This may make it difficult to move around.
MaintenanceThese machines do not require seasonal maintenance, unlike their gas-powered leaf blowers. Electric leaf blowers can be corded or have a pre-charged battery. Maintenance may include charging batteries.Require regular maintenance: mixing oil with gas for 2-cycle engines and spark plug replacement on 4-cycle engines. The mixing of oil and gas can result in spills and leaks which cause a threat to the environment.

Still not convinced? The emissions from 30 minutes of leaf blowing with a gas-powered leaf blower are equivalent to driving a car at 30mph for 440 miles!

As the City moves forward with phasing out gasoline-powered leaf blowers, stay up to date on information regarding the ordinance and enforcement through www.SouthPasadenaCA.gov/LeafBlowers.

9/30/22

Are you ready to be blown away? Visit the South Pasadena Open House on Sunday, October 2nd from 10 am to 2 pm to take part in an electric leaf blower raffle! Drawing will be occurring at 1:30 pm at the Public Works Booth! Visit SouthPasadenaCA.gov/Events for more information about the South Pasadena Open House event.

9/27/22

Get the buzz on bees from local experts! On Wednesday, October 19th, at 6:30 p.m. in the Library Community Room local beekeeper Michael Pusateri and native bee expert Hartmut Wisch will present on South Pasadena’s bees. This event is presented in partnership with the Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library and South Pasadena Beautiful. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. (1115 El Centro Street).

9/27/22

Starting NOW! Businesses and commercial establishments will automatically switch from non-renewable energy to 100% Green Power. You may choose lower-tier: Clean Power or Lean Power, or choose to opt-out of the program and continue utilizing non-renewable energy. Visit this link to compare options. On average, a typical bill for small businesses will increase by approximately 3% (about $3 for every $100 of electricity charges). Calculate your commercial energy bill here, you can compare your estimated costs between the different options. If you choose not to participate in the switch to clean energy, visit this link for detailed information to opt-out.

9/27/22

On September 1, 2021, City Council adopted an ordinance banning the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in the City. The enforcement of gas-powered leaf blowers was set to begin on October 1, 2022. As the City explores new avenues for resources, incentives, and education, enforcement has been delayed. The ordinance is still in effect and will be enforced at a later date.

Incentives are on their way! Talk to your gardener NOW to prepare for the switch! For more information and to stay up to date on new incentives, visit http://www.SouthPasadenaCA.gov/LeafBlowers.

Come by and test out an electric leaf blower for yourself. Be prepared to be blown away by the impressive power coming from these low-noise, low-polluting machines at the South Pasadena Open House on Sunday, October 2nd from 10 am to 2 pm. This Citywide event will be taking place in front of South Pasadena City Hall (1414 Mission Street) and will include an electric leaf blower demonstration as well as music, tours, and the chance to meet the South Pasadena City team! Visit SouthPasadenaCA.gov/Events for more information about the South Pasadena Open House event.

9/26/22