Pasadena · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Pasadena public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Police Department Staffing and Lieutenant Position
Council members debated and ultimately rejected the creation of a new police lieutenant position for the second time, citing conflicting savings estimates, lack of justification, and internal department scrutiny.
Proposed 2026 Property Tax Rate and FY 2027 Budget
The council moved forward with the tax rate process by proposing a 2026 property tax rate of $0.451989 and scheduling public hearings for the fiscal year 2027 budget.
City Council Meeting
Pasadena's City Council just had a big meeting covering everything from new developments and safety plans to park upgrades and festivals. Residents also got a chance to voice their opinions on traffic and environmental issues.
Memorial Park Fitness and Playground Improvements
Pasadena just upgraded Memorial Park with a new rope climber for kids and workout gear for all ages. Funded by MD Anderson and Centerpoint Energy, these additions give families more ways to stay active and healthy close to home.
LEAP Library Adventure Backpack Program
Pasadena libraries are launching check-out backpacks filled with nature and outdoor gear to encourage families and kids to spend less time on screens and more time exploring local parks and nature reserves.
Child Safety in Schools
A shocking incident in Pasadena ISD has a teacher's aide facing assault charges for allegedly hurting a special needs student. The student's mom is understandably furious, saying the district didn't keep her son safe.
Industrial Fire
A chemical plant fire in Pasadena is under control, and thankfully, no one was injured. Officials say the smoke isn't a danger, and air quality is safe for residents.
Winter Storm Preparedness
Brace yourselves, Pasadena! A winter storm is rolling in, and while we've dodged the worst so far, icy roads are still a real threat. Officials are begging everyone to stay put and off the streets as temps plummet.
Police Vehicle Crash Investigation
A civilian is suing after a crash with a Pasadena police car, claiming the officer was speeding and had no lights on. The police department is pushing back, saying their officer wasn't to blame, despite the report noting the officer's speed.
Legal Dispute
A mechanic is suing the city over a contract dispute, but his case was just thrown out by an appeals court. He's still fighting, though, so we'll have to wait and see if he gets another shot at proving his case.
Mayor's health
Pasadena's Mayor Thomas Schoenbein suddenly fell ill at City Hall and had to be airlifted to the hospital. Officials have confirmed the medical emergency.
Women in Local Government
Pasadena's own Bianca Valerio is teaming up with other women leaders from Houston suburbs for a virtual chat. They'll be spilling the tea on leadership, city growth, and how they're getting things done.
Police Pursuit Policy
A family's home was hit after a police chase, and now everyone's talking about whether Pasadena cops are too aggressive when they chase suspects. It's a big debate about how to keep us safe without causing more damage.
Council Seat Election
A Pasadena city council seat came down to a coin flip after a tie! Imagine the drama – literally decided by chance.
Election Tie-breaker
Pasadena's City Council race was so close, they had to flip a coin to decide the winner! Talk about a nail-biter election.
Election Outcome
Get this: a Pasadena City Council race was so close, they had to flip a coin to decide the winner! Council member Bianca Valerio won the coin toss and gets to keep her seat. Talk about a nail-biter election!
Election Tiebreaker
A tight Pasadena City Council race ended in a tie, and now a coin flip will decide who gets the seat. It's a dramatic way to settle a close election!
Mayoral Election
Pasadena has a new mayor! Thomas Schoenbein is taking the reins after winning the 2025 election. Get ready for a change in leadership at City Hall.
Election Tie
Pasadena's City Council District 2 race is in a dead heat, with both candidates receiving the exact same number of votes. Officials are now considering a coin toss to decide who wins the seat.
Election Results
Pasadena just had a runoff election, and we've got new faces in charge! Get ready for potential shifts in city leadership and policies.
Business Regulation
A local mechanic is stuck in limbo, unable to open their shop because the city is taking too long to approve their business license. A watchdog group is calling out Pasadena, saying they're breaking a promise and holding up a small business.
Property Rights Dispute
A local mechanic is locked in a property rights battle, stuck waiting over 1,000 days for the city to allow him to use his land. His legal team is pushing Pasadena to fulfill its commitments and let him get back to business.
Public Safety Infrastructure
Pasadena's stepping up its safety game! They've just rolled out 30 new outdoor warning sirens to alert folks about weather or chemical emergencies. This comes after a rough tornado last year, so it's all about making sure everyone's in the loop when danger strikes.
Elected Official Misconduct
A Pasadena city councilwoman was arrested for drug possession. This incident is causing a stir and making people question the integrity of local leadership.
Arrest at City Council Meeting
A Pasadena resident claims his rights were violated after being removed and arrested for speaking out against the mayor at a city council meeting. This incident raises questions about free speech and how public comments are managed during official proceedings.
Odor Pollution
Pasadena is dealing with a nasty, ongoing smell that's making life miserable for residents. People are demanding to know what's causing it and want it fixed ASAP because it's seriously messing with their ability to just, you know, breathe.
Scholarship Cancellation
Pasadena students are getting a lifeline for their education thanks to community fundraising efforts. This comes after the city decided to cut their scholarships, leaving many in a tough spot.
Scholarship Revocation
Two Pasadena students lost their scholarships, and now city leaders are demanding to know why. They're pushing for more openness about the decision-making process behind these revocations.
Scholarship Funding Dispute
A city councilman is seeing red because the city attorney allegedly cut scholarships for needy students without a word. This is sparking a big fight over money meant to help local kids get ahead.
Business Permit Dispute
A Pasadena mechanic has been fighting the city for almost three years to open his shop. Is the city's bureaucracy making it impossible for small businesses to get off the ground?
Wastewater Treatment Plant Violations
Pasadena's wastewater treatment plants are in hot water due to multiple violations. Residents have been complaining about a foul odor, and now the city faces potential cleanup and fines.
Public Health Nuisance
Pasadena's dealing with a major rat issue, and it's all thanks to one 82-year-old resident. The city's demanding he clean up the infestation at his property, or face consequences.
Pest Control
Your neighbor might be hoarding rats, and the city is trying to do something about it. Pasadena officials are dealing with a homeowner who allegedly keeps rats as pets, causing a rat infestation that's bothering the whole neighborhood.
Local Elections
Pasadena's local elections just wrapped up, and it's shake-up time! Two city council races are going to runoffs, meaning we'll get to vote again, and a familiar face on the council won't be back. Get ready for some potential new leadership shaping our city.
Tornado Relief
Tornados ripped through Deer Park and Pasadena, leaving a mess. This guide has the lowdown on getting your power back, finding safe places to stay, and other crucial info you need right now.
Storm Damage
A tornado just tore through Pasadena, leaving a mess of destruction in its wake. Folks are now picking up the pieces after the severe weather hit.
Water Conservation
Pasadena is facing a water shortage and needs your help! They're asking residents to stop letting faucets drip, even a little, to conserve water. Let's all do our part to keep the taps flowing.
Parking Ordinance Lawsuit
A Pasadena auto shop is suing the city over a new parking ordinance. This lawsuit could change how businesses park their vehicles and potentially affect street parking availability for everyone.
Parking Ordinance
A Pasadena auto shop is fighting back against a new city parking ordinance, claiming it's unfair and could put them out of business. This is a classic clash between local businesses and city regulations.
Election
Pasadena's mayor and city council elections are flying under the radar this year. It's a stark change from four years ago when voting rights were a major talking point.
Water Advisory
Pasadena residents, listen up! Your tap water is under an advisory, meaning you need to boil it before using it for drinking or cooking. This is a precautionary measure due to a potential contamination issue, so let's all play it safe.
Street Renaming
Pasadena is honoring country music star Mickey Gilley by renaming a street after him. It's a way to celebrate a local legend and keep his memory alive in the city.
Public Health Policy
Pasadena isn't issuing a shelter-in-place order, and officials are explaining why. This decision is based on local conditions, so if you're wondering how it impacts your daily life, here's what you need to know.
Building Demolition Lawsuit
Pasadena is suing to demolish a historic building. The city says it's a safety hazard, but locals are upset about losing a landmark.
Vehicle Auction
Pasadena's got a massive car auction happening this weekend, with over 100 vehicles up for grabs. If you're in the market for a new set of wheels, this could be your golden opportunity to snag a bargain.
Election Law Oversight
Pasadena is dropping its legal battle to escape federal oversight of its elections. This means Uncle Sam will continue to monitor how the city handles voting, likely for a long time.
Legal Challenge
Pasadena's election system is facing a lawsuit from the Campaign Legal Center. They're arguing the current setup isn't fair and needs a change to make things more equitable for voters.
Voting Rights Lawsuit
Pasadena's in a legal battle over how city council members are elected, and it could change voting rules across Texas. The core issue is whether the current system unfairly impacts minority voters.
Election Administration
Pasadena's elections are shaping up to be a big deal this year, with lots of talk about voting rights. Decisions made now could seriously change how you cast your ballot.
Voting Rights
Pasadena's voting rules are getting a serious look in the ongoing voting rights discussion. Get ready for some legal back-and-forth about how residents will be able to vote.