Pasadena Fire Parcel Tax Proposal Raises New Concerns for CRE
The Pasadena City Council is expected to decide on August 3rd whether to place a new fire parcel tax before voters this November.
Depending on the option selected, the proposal could raise between $20 million and $30 million annually through a tax based on developed square footage.
We strongly supports investing in public safety. Safe communities and well-funded emergency services benefit everyone.
However, we are concerned about the growing trend of local governments relying on parcel taxes and other new taxes that place a disproportionate financial burden on commercial real estate.
This is not the first proposal of its kind. Last month, a similar parcel tax initiative in Long Beach failed to qualify for the November ballot, and earlier this year we helped defeat SB 789, which would have created a statewide commercial property vacancy tax. We remain committed to supporting smart public policy while opposing proposals that make it more difficult to own, operate, and invest in commercial properties.
How It Impacts You
If you own, manage, or operate commercial property in Pasadena, now is the time to make your voice heard.
We encourage you to respectfully contact the Pasadena City Council and urge them not to place this parcel tax on the November ballot.
While we all support funding essential public safety services, additional parcel taxes create new financial pressures for businesses already facing rising operating costs.
We will continue monitoring Pasadena's City Council meetings and will keep members informed of the outcome and any next steps.
Together, we can continue advocating for policies that strengthen California's commercial real estate industry without placing additional burdens on property owners and businesses.
