Burbank, City of - Purchasing Division

The meeting included department announcements regarding upcoming public events such as the North Pole Plunge, Story Owl Hour, Wild Creature Walk, Moonlight Hike, Burbank Adaptive Sports Expo, and Dig Burbank volunteer event, as well as a Real Madrid Legends versus Barcelona Legends soccer game. Following department reports, public comment focused heavily on concerns regarding the Church of Scientology and its front groups, like Drug-Free World, attempting to infiltrate community programs and advocating for caution concerning their recruitment tactics and history related to health and education. Additionally, members of the Cultural Arts Commission provided input to thank the board for their continued support of the arts grants program, which originated during the pandemic to assist local artists.

This joint meeting of the Burbank City Council, Successor Agency, Housing Authority, Parking Authority, and Youth Endowment Services Fund Board included introductory remarks, a moment of reflection for Renee Nicole Good, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting involved announcements regarding upcoming community workshops on the Creative Industry Task Force and the Golden State Neighborhood Protection Plan, as well as volunteer needs for the homeless count. Recognition was given to the winners of the 2025 Holiday Decoration Contest across residential and youth categories, and to the Burbank Tournament of Roses Association (Bura) for winning the theme award for their 2026 Rose Parade float, which supported the Burbank Animal Shelter through a week-long adoption fee reduction event. A special tribute was also presented to Officer Salace and his family in honor of his late K9 partner, Spike, including presenting Spike's collar and tag, which rode on the float.

The session provided an update on the Burbank Neighborhood Specific Plan (RNSP) development process, which focuses on the unique equestrian character of the Rancho neighborhood. Key discussion points included an analysis of equestrian activity trends since 2006, noting a decline in registered horses but highlighting data collection gaps crucial for emergency preparedness. A historic context statement concluded that the neighborhood does not meet criteria for a historic district designation due to diminished equestrian infrastructure and architectural cohesion. Mobility conditions were studied, showing high volumes on dedicated equestrian paths near the LA Equestrian Center and the Mariposa Street Bridge, and identifying safety as a primary concern. Six major themes guiding future alternatives were presented: Public Realm Mobility, Horsekeeping, Change and Growth, Citywide Role, and Identity. The council was asked to provide input on these emerging themes and the project team's focus on equestrian safety.

The meeting began with roll call and the flag salute, followed by procedures for the public comment period. Commissioners provided updates, including observations at a gun buyback event, participation in a homeless count, and review of the OIR contract. A significant portion of the meeting involved public commentary, addressing questions about police response times, particularly concerning burglaries and cross-jurisdictional emergency response protocols with neighboring cities like Glendale. Commissioners responded by confirming mutual aid agreements exist but noting operational limitations. The session concluded with the approval of the minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting and a detailed presentation and discussion regarding parking enforcement efforts since contracting with LAZ parking enforcement. Key data points included citation statistics for 2023 through early 2026, noting street sweeping as the most cited violation annually, and detailing the staffing structure of the enforcement team.

The meeting began with a moment of reflection and the pledge of allegiance. Procedures for public comment were outlined, emphasizing time limits based on the number of speakers. Announcements included the kick-off of the Burbank Fire Department's Spark of Love toy Drive and a call for volunteers for the homeless count in January 2026. City management and legal counsel provided updates, including a report on closed session discussions concerning litigation involving Anous Chemian versus the City of Burbank, where no reportable action was taken. The Mayor provided clarification regarding an agenda request concerning the potential acquisition of Warner Brothers Studios, noting that the council would only consider advancing the item for future consideration, not taking final action. During the general public comment period, key topics discussed included the importance of supporting cultural arts initiatives, including arts grants and the potential creation of an arts deputy position, and advocating for Burbank to become an arts destination. Other public comments addressed concerns regarding housing law compliance for providers and renters, and strong opposition to proceeding with litigation regarding the potential sale of Warner Brothers Studios due to antitrust concerns, citing potential financial and reputational risks. A separate public comment voiced strong disappointment regarding a council member's endorsement of ICE policies.