Heather Lindquist and Jennifer Bressler

We’ve known John professionally for five years. We first met Councilman John Kennedy through our work as the exhibit design team for the recently unveiled exhibits at 10 W. Walnut. John had the vision – and the resolve – to require the project’s developer, the Lincoln Property Company, to “develop a neighborhoods that were razed and uprooted in the name of “urban renewal” in the 1960s and 1970s. We hoped to convey the spirit of the community before the Parson’s block and 134-210 freeway interchange were built. What were the old street names? Who lived, worked, and worshiped there? How do we share their stories so that we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past? permanent and visible recognition on the property such as a plaque or monument of the history and contribution of African American businesses, individuals, and residents in the area.”

From the beginning, John’s vision was both granular and grand. In our first meeting, he reeled off the top of his head the names and phone numbers of the people we needed to talk to so that we could tell a complete story. He knew the history – and he knew his constituents. In subsequent meetings, John wasn’t afraid to say “Don’t give me the minimus. I want your best effort.” So, we went back to the drawing board, more than once.

These thirty words set a high bar. John made our team want to meet that bar – and then surpass it. We knew needed to tell the story of Old Pasadena’s

We hope the final result – a series of ten porcelain enamel and bronze interpretive panels – fulfills John’s vision and inspires us to continue the hard, beautiful work that he championed.

A Tribute to the Late Councilmember John J. Kennedy

August 16, 2022

Pasadena City Councilmember John Kennedy was a powerful leader and vocal advocate who sought to li the en re Pasadena community. On behalf of LPC West, we appreciate his reless commitment to crea ng opportuni es for all and making Pasadena a more vibrant, inclusive community

Over the years, LPC West worked with Councilman Kennedy on 10 West Walnut, a world-class, mixed- use development located in the heart of Old Pasadena. The process to see this project come to life was both lengthy and intensive. Throughout the process, we witnessed Councilman Kennedy’s steadfast commitment to upli ing the community he cherished and appreciated that he always challenged us to do more and create even more of a posi ve impact.

Nowhere was Councilman Kennedy’s impact more visible than the historic signage which now stands throughout the 10 West property and addresses Pasadena’s history, recognizing and upli ing the contribu on of African American businesses, individuals, and residents in the area.

In June, the LPC West team joined Councilman Kennedy at an event he proudly hosted to celebrate and present the new 10 West Walnut Exhibit Project.

As LPC West Execu ve Vice President Rob Kane noted then, Councilman Kennedy set a high bar and encouraged everyone involved in the project to tell the real story about Pasadena’s history and to do so in a manner that would be seen, understood, and appreciated by those who live, work, and visit here. His advice, perspec ve, and guidance throughout the process was incredibly helpful and greatly appreciated.

As a result of Councilman Kennedy’s hands-on leadership, Pasadena’s important and unique history will no longer be hidden or glossed over, and his legacy will con nue to live on through those who learn about the hidden history of Pasadena.

LPC West recognizes Councilman Kennedy for his leadership and the incredible legacy he leaves on the en re Pasadena community. The team at LPC West joins the community of Pasadena in mourning the loss of Councilmember Kennedy. He will be deeply missed.