Kathryn Barger Endorsed Pasadena Fire Tax Measure
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger has officially backed the city's upcoming fire parcel tax proposal.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Elections
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Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger announced her endorsement of Measure PFD, a proposed tax to fund fire and emergency services in Pasadena. The measure appears on the November 3 ballot and requires a two-thirds majority for passage.
Why it matters
The measure aims to modernize fire facilities and address staffing shortages that have persisted as 911 calls increased tenfold over the last 75 years. Proponents argue this funding is essential to maintain safety standards in a growing city.
Measure PFD seeks a parcel tax of 19 cents per square foot, which would cost owners of a 1,600-square-foot home approximately $304 annually. The tax is restricted to local fire and emergency services for 14 years and requires independent audits.
The players
Kathryn Barger
Kathryn Barger serves as a member of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
Pasadena Firefighters Association Local 809
This labor organization represents the interests of firefighters operating within the city of Pasadena.
Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles
The association represents the interests of rental property owners and managers across the region.
The details
The proposal includes funds for earthquake retrofits and general construction, with costs for these projects projected to exceed $100 million. While the Pasadena Firefighters Association and local nursing unions support the measure, industry groups like the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles oppose it.
Timeline
August 2026: Pasadena City Council voted to place the measure on the ballot.
September 22, 2026: Kathryn Barger announced her endorsement of Measure PFD.
November 3, 2026: Measure PFD will appear on the ballot for voter consideration.
Political Context
Measure PFD faces significant opposition from landlord and building owner organizations who argue against the increased property tax burden. This reflects the broader trend in California municipal politics where essential service funding measures frequently encounter stiff resistance from property owner groups.
If approved, property owners will face an annual tax of 19 cents per square foot, directly impacting household budgets for the next 14 years. Residents should review the tax amount based on their specific square footage to understand the total cost per year.
The takeaway
The proposed tax represents a long-term fiscal commitment for Pasadena residents to address aging fire infrastructure. Voters must decide if the projected $100 million in facility upgrades justifies the 14-year parcel tax burden.
Further reading
For more information on local initiatives, visit the Pasadena Elections section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Pasadena Now.
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