Mike Fortney

The Planning Commission discussed a citywide zoning code amendment concerning the regulation of murals, specifically the addition of Chapter 30.38 to the municipal code to establish comprehensive standards for mural installation, maintenance, and removal. The presentation covered permit application processes, appeal procedures, artist waiver requirements, and necessary cleanup amendments to existing zoning code sections to ensure consistency. The commission reviewed these proposed regulations, which are intended to streamline the approval process, and discussed the anticipated timeline for City Council consideration.

The meeting included reports on the posting of the agenda and a series of presentations regarding library, arts, and cultural programming. Key topics featured updates on new operating hours, the Brand Summer Concert Series, ongoing exhibitions, and an upcoming virtual author talk. Additionally, there was a detailed discussion concerning the Glendale Library, Arts and Culture Strategic Plan, presented by a planning consultant to address long-term goals and resource management during budget constraints.

The commission discussed the appointment of the new Chief of Police and reviewed public commentary regarding internal audit staffing, charter review committee recommendations, and concerns about police department transparency and overtime management. The commission also received a status report on recruitment and examinations, noted the establishment of eligible lists, and approved a new class specification for the position of senior helicopter mechanic to support the police department's expanded aviation fleet.

The Council meeting focused on the implementation of new remote participation options via Zoom and telephone for city meetings to comply with Senate Bill 707. The session included a proclamation designating July 2026 as Parks Make Life Better Month and an informational report on the open space conservation and recreation plan. The Council also reviewed the status of various board and commission appointments following recent elections, discussed requirements for commission member qualifications, and made an appointment to the Burbank Glendel Pasadena Airport Authority.

The commission discussed the introduction and promotion of a groundskeeper and received an update on upcoming City Council agenda items, including a recreation element update, the proclamation of Parks Make Life Better Month, submission of a climate bond grant for a park renovation, and the placement of a commemorative plaque. The meeting also included the presentation of certificates of appreciation to cruise night sponsors and a report on the campaign to educate the public about mosquitoes. Finally, the commission initiated the process for selecting two voting members to serve on the student member selection committee.