Pasadena Councilman Gordo Recall Petition Pretends to Be for Rent Control

An individual attempting to gather signatures for the recall of Councilman Gordo knocked on his door. – Photo by Terry Miller / Beacon Media News

Pasadena Tenants Union is not currently circulating a rent control petition

By Terry Miller

Recent news articles regarding a local councilmember were brought to the attention of the Pasadena Tenants Union (PTU) last week when an individual, attempting to get signatures for the recall of Councilmember Victor Gordo, actually knocked on Gordo’s door one evening. This individual was implying that the recall petition was for rent control, which was false. Here’s the timeline:

-On Feb. 1, 2019 signature-gatherers go door-to-door in District 5 with copies of the recall petition. One signature gatherer knocks on Gordo’s door but runs away when the councilman tries to take a photo of the petition. Among the reasons for the recall: Gordo’s position on cannabis regulation.

-One week later, Feb. 8, Bradley Hertz, a San Francisco attorney who has worked with Golden State Collective operator Shaun Szameit in the past, files official paperwork for the recall with the City Clerk’s office. Szameit emerges as recall spokesperson.

“While PTU supports establishing rent control and just-cause eviction protections in Pasadena, it is not currently circulating or gathering petition signatures to establish these rights. We encourage individuals to contact PTU at info@pasadenatenantsunion.com to seek additional information, pose questions or concerns and/or notify PTU if individuals connected with the Gordo recall campaign represent their efforts as part of a rent control petition drive. PTU advocates for transparency and is thankful for Pasadena community members’ support for rent control and just cause eviction protections.”

PTU has not taken a position regarding the recall effort. Additionally, members of the recall effort have not reached out to PTU for support.

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