The Public Safety Commission of South Pasadena convened on June 9, 2025, to address pressing community concerns and police policies amid ongoing tensions in Los Angeles and Southern California. The meeting focused on the South Pasadena Police Department's stance on civil immigration enforcement and the impact of recent mutual aid deployments.

The discussion began with a clarification from the police chief regarding the department's policy on civil immigration enforcement. He confirmed that South Pasadena Police does not engage in such enforcement, adhering to California Assembly Bill 54, which restricts local law enforcement's involvement in immigration matters. This policy has been in place for some time and has undergone peer review, receiving community approval. The chief noted that the policy is publicly accessible on the police department's website.

Commissioners raised concerns about the implications of police deployments to assist in Los Angeles. The chief assured that these deployments would not affect the department's ability to respond to local calls for service, as officers were being called in on an overtime basis rather than pulling from on-duty staff.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing community fears regarding immigration enforcement. One commissioner expressed personal concerns about safety for families of color in the current climate, highlighting the anxiety surrounding potential detentions during routine activities, such as medical visits outside South Pasadena. This sentiment was echoed by another commissioner, who emphasized the palpable fear among foreign-born residents and those with limited English proficiency.

The commissioners collectively acknowledged the need for ongoing dialogue about community safety and the protection of vulnerable populations. They expressed a commitment to ensuring that all residents feel secure and supported, particularly in light of recent events that have heightened tensions in the region.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued discussions on these critical issues, emphasizing the importance of community trust in law enforcement and the need for transparent policies that protect all residents. The commission plans to further explore these topics in future meetings, aiming to foster a safe and inclusive environment for everyone in South Pasadena.