Mayor Sworn In, Pledges to Give Children Priority

PASADENA — Bill Bogaard, sworn in Monday as Pasadena’s first elected mayor in 88 years, promised to make education and the well-being of children his top priorities.

The 60-year-old attorney and law professor also said he intends to instill a spirit of volunteerism in the city and renew City Hall’s partnership with public schools.

“All of our citizens deserve the best city possible,” said Bogaard, who was on the council a decade ago and previously served as mayor when that post rotated among council members.

He took the oath of office on a platform on the City Hall steps, along with new council members Steve Madison and Steve Haderlein.

Bogaard defeated Councilman Chris Holden in last month’s mayoral election. On Monday, Bogaard complimented Holden, who had been the last appointed mayor, and promised to work with him.

Also on Monday, the Pasadena Unified Board of Education decided to hold an election Nov. 2 to fill the seat vacated by George A. Padilla, who announced his resignation last month with two years left in his term.

Padilla’s announcement ignited a furious debate over whether to hold an election or appoint a replacement for the remainder of the term.

The Board of Education voted 3 to 1 in favor of an election to coincide with the Pasadena City College District trustees election. Newly appointed board President Jackie Jacobs dissented.