In a stunning show of community unity and concern, with very short notice, 125 residents of South Pasadena voiced their opposition (CLICK TO READ THEM ALL) to the proposed eviction of the South Pasadena Historical Museum during a City Council meeting Wednesday night.

The public comments, submitted to the City of South Pasadena for the September 4 Close Session Council Session via email, reflect a near-unanimous call for the City Council to reverse its decision and renew the lease with the South Pasadena Preservation Foundation (SPPF), the nonprofit organization that has actively managed the museum for over 40 years.

Data Shows Overwhelming Opposition to Eviction

An analysis of the public comments reveals an overwhelming consensus: the community does not support the eviction of the South Pasadena Preservation from The Historical Museum. Within the 125 comments submitted, 170 statements were made explicitly opposed the eviction, with residents calling for the City Council to reconsider its decision.

Residents repeatedly emphasized the museum’s critical role in preserving and promoting South Pasadena’s rich local history. 144 statements were made that praised the museum as a “jewel” of the city, highlighting the foundation’s dedication to maintaining the town’s cultural heritage.

Concerns About Misinformation and Calls for Transparency

Many residents highlight the decision to evict the SPPF is based on misunderstandings or misinformation. 112 comments specifically raised concerns about the lack of clear communication and potential misconceptions surrounding the eviction. Residents called for the City Council to clarify its reasoning and provide the public with an opportunity to understand the decision-making process. From where, or from whom, are City Councilmembers getting their information?

Due to the process within South Pasadena City Hall, the details of the points, the reasons, on the ‘Notice to Vacate’ and the response from SPPF that corrects or outright refutes the various points are not yet disclosed as public information.  This is standard practice.  City councilmembers are not allowed to comment on the details of the negotiations at this time.

According to SPPF, the Foundation had no choice left but to bring this issue to the public, to the residents, to communicate the value of SPPF’s work, and spotlight the mistake the city is making with this action.

Furthermore, 58 comments demanded greater transparency from the City Council. These residents urged city officials to engage in an open dialogue with the community and the SPPF to resolve any existing issues and restore the lease.

Appeals for Lease Renewal and Collaborative Solutions

The data also reveals a significant push for lease renewal. 98 comments directly requested that the City Council renew the lease with the SPPF, arguing that the Foundation has effectively managed the museum and serves as a responsible steward, and showcase, of South Pasadena’s historical and cultural assets.

Community members stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue between the city and the SPPF to work toward a mutually beneficial lease, expeditiously.

Personal and Emotional Connections to the Museum

The museum’s importance goes beyond its role as a historical archive; it is also deeply embedded in the lifestyle, collective conversation, and cultural fabric of South Pasadena. 83 comments reflected personal stories and heartfelt appeals, demonstrating the community’s deep connection to the museum. Residents described the museum as a source of pride, a place for learning, and a venue that strengthens the sense of community and continuity in the city.

A Call for Action from the City Council

The public’s response was clear: the residents of South Pasadena want the City Council to work collaboratively with the SPPF to ensure the museum remains open and in the stewardship of SPPF. The museum’s significance to the town’s identity, value, and its role in fostering a sense of place, pride, and charm cannot be understated.

As one resident succinctly put it, “Destroying this vital community touchstone will severely damage the spirit this city has fought so long to create.”

What Comes Next?

South Pasadena City Council Meeting Was Held: SPPF and residents of South Pasadena are awaiting decisions on Museum Lease, and eviction retraction or not.

At this time, it’s assumed that the eviction “Notice to Vacate” issued to SPPF remains active, as there has been no official communication from the City regarding any changes to this status as of yet.

During the open council session that immediately followed, the City Attorney reported that two individuals from the City would be assigned to negotiate a possible new lease with SPPF. However, the identities of these negotiators have not yet been announced.

With so many voices united in support of the museum, the answer will have lasting implications for South Pasadena’s identity, heritage, and future.

The South Pasadenan News Team will be closely monitoring this issue.  Updates to follow as this issue unfolds.

The post Museum Eviction or New Lease: Overwhelming Public Support For SPPF, Save South Pasadena Historical Museum first appeared on The South Pasadenan | South Pasadena News.