2025 Annual Report

Download: Annual Report 2025

Message from the City Manager:

It is my honor to present the City of Pasadena's 2025 Annual Report, highlighting our achievements, ongoing initiatives, and how we came together during one of the most challenging years in recent memory. This year, our city faced the Eaton Fire, a true
test of resilience, collaboration, and community spirit.

The Eaton Fire reminded us that Pasadena's strength has never been measured by its buildings or boulevards, but by its people. Our firefighters, police officers, public works crews, emergency responders, and city staff worked tirelessly to protect lives and property. Community organizations stepped forward without hesitation, and neighbors helped neighbors with courage and compassion.
In every corner of Pasadena, I witnessed determination, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to one
another.

Even amid these challenges, Pasadena advanced key initiatives that will shape our city for years to come. Public Works resurfaced streets, installed new ADA-compliant infrastructure, and maintained over 17,000 streetlights and 20,500 traffic signs. The Department of Transportation made meaningful progress this year by advancing zero-emission transit, improving safety and parking operations, supporting emergency response, and securing significant grant funding to enhance mobility citywide. Water and Power strengthened the energy grid, repaired water mains, expanded renewable energy programs, and supported hundreds of residents with home efficiency upgrades. The Fire Department conducted thousands of inspections, trained new recruits, and remained ready for emergencies across the city and the state. Public Health delivered vaccines, provided emergency shelter services, and offered health outreach programs to protect our most vulnerable residents. Our Parks, Recreation, and Community Services staff executed a comprehensive sanitation of park amenities and playground equipment, as well as offering free recreation camps for over 200 students who were impacted by school closures.

Innovation and technology also moved forward. The Department of Information Technology expanded online services and permit processing, improving access and efficiency for residents and businesses. Finance modernized operations, supported disaster recovery efforts, and advanced critical city projects, including the Central Library Seismic Retrofit. Planning and Community Development guided rebuilding efforts after the Eaton Fire, preserved historic neighborhoods, and updated zoning and design standards to encourage responsible growth. Libraries, Parks, Recreation and Community Services, and Rent Stabilization engaged tens of thousands of residents through programs, workshops, and community initiatives that expanded educational
opportunities, promoted recreation, and strengthened housing equity.

These accomplishments, and so many more highlighted in this report, show a city that not only meets challenges but grows stronger and more connected each year. Pasadena's progress depends on collaboration among the City Council, city departments, community partners, and residents, all working together to maintain a vibrant, safe, and sustainable city.

As I prepare to retire from public service, my heart is full of gratitude. Serving as your City Manager has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Pasadena is remarkable - not because it is free from challenges, butbecause of the way we face them together: with courage, generosity, and hope.

The achievements highlighted in this report are a testament to the leadership of the Mayor and City Council, the dedication of City staff, the support of community partners, and the engagement of our residents. Through this shared commitment, Pasadena continues to thrive. I invite you to explore this report and celebrate the people, projects, and programs that make our city such a special place to live, work, play, and visit.

With deep gratitude,

Miguel Márquez
City Manager, City of Pasadena