A Message from the City Manager, Roubik Golanian
Summer in Glendale is a celebration of community. From music in our parks to neighborhood events and busy splash pads, the energy this season brings is a reminder of why so many residents call our city home.
This summer, we also heard directly from residents and the message was clear. Eight out of ten community members say Glendale is an excellent or pretty good place to live, and just as many feel we’re delivering on the promise of quality city services. Whether it’s the care we put into maintaining parks and libraries or the rapid response of our fire, police, and emergency teams, our commitment to public service is felt throughout the city. Perhaps most telling: 92% of residents say they feel safe in their neighborhoods at night. That sense of safety and trust is a direct reflection of the work our teams do every day.
Behind the scenes, that work has included meeting the demands of a challenging budget year. In July, the Glendale City Council adopted the Fiscal Year 2025–26 budget, overcoming a projected $34 million shortfall. Cost-saving measures were implemented to close the majority of the gap. These included operational reductions, delays to select capital improvement projects, and a citywide hiring freeze that pauses recruitment for some vacant positions.
A remaining $4 million shortfall was addressed through a one-time transfer from reserves, allowing us to adopt a $352.5 million General Fund budget that maintains core services. While this approach helped us avoid deeper cuts this year, it underscores the importance of long-term financial stability.
In the near term, limited resources mean we must prioritize essential functions and explore alternative approaches to maintain service levels. Ultimately, the City will need to explore additional revenue-generating sources, reduce ongoing expenditures, or a combination of both to structurally balance the budget in future years. While our financial landscape remains complex, our commitment to delivering high-quality service and supporting community well-being has never been stronger.
As we look ahead, we remain focused on thoughtful planning, transparency, and innovation to meet the evolving needs of our community. Thank you for being part of what makes Glendale a place we’re all proud to call home.
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 National Night Out Returns August 5
Join the Glendale Police Department and Community Services & Parks Department for National Night Out—an annual event held on the first Tuesday of August to strengthen police-community partnerships and bring neighbors together.
This free, family-friendly evening is an opportunity to connect with your community, meet local officials, and share ideas to help make Glendale safer and more united. Glendale Police, Fire, and Community Services & Parks staff will be joined by City Councilmembers and City leaders to listen to residents, engage in conversation, and celebrate the community.
Event Details
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Pacific Park & Community Center
501 S. Pacific Ave.,
Glendale, CA 91204
Introducing the Upgraded MYGWP Portal
As of July 22, 2025, Glendale Water & Power has launched its upgraded customer payment portal, MYGWP, powered by SilverBlaze. The new platform offers a more streamlined, user-friendly experience for managing accounts, viewing bills, and making secure online payments.
Key Features
• View digital meter consumption data
• Pay bills and access billing history
• Review past transactions and payments
• Analyze and download electricity and water usage
• Link multiple accounts under one profile
• Report outages for power and water services
Important for Current Users
• Password Reset: A reset is required. Users will receive a secure email from SilverBlaze with instructions.
• Auto-Pay: Auto-Pay information will not transfer—please re-enroll after logging in.
• Portal Access: The login page remains at MyGWP.GlendaleCA.gov or through the "Pay Your Bill" button on GlendaleWaterAndPower.com.
For New Users
Visit MyGWP.GlendaleCA.gov to register. Have your most recent GWP bill ready for setup.
Bus Rapid Transit Utility Exploration Work
Utility exploration for Metro’s North Hollywood to Pasadena Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project is proceeding along the project corridor!
This work will include locating and identifying utilities to prepare the roadway for construction in late 2026/early 2027. Work will occur during weekdays. Noise and minimal vibration are expected.
Anticipated Start: Monday, August 4, 2025, for approximately one week.
Anticipated Start: Friday, August 8, 2025, for approximately one month.
Location: Glenoaks Blvd. (between just east of Alameda Ave. and Central Ave.)
What to Expect
- Noise and minimal vibration during work
- Traffic signs and flaggers on site
- Temporary parking restrictions posted in work areas
To view all preconstruction activity locations, visit bit.ly/GlendalePreconstruction.
Women's Equality Day 2025
The City of Glendale invites community members to its Second Annual Women’s Equality Day Celebration on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the historic Alex Theatre Courtyard. This inspiring evening will bring together civic and business community leaders, equity advocates, and residents and business owners for a program centered on education, empowerment, and connection.
Co-sponsored by the Glendale Commission on the Status of Women, the program will also feature live music, food, beverages refreshments, and networking opportunities. Panelist and additional details will be announced soon.
Event Details:
September 10, 2025
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Alex Theatre Courtyard
216 N. Brand Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91203
Development Services Division Now Live
The City of Glendale Community Development Department (CDD) is combining its Planning Division and Building & Safety Division to establish a new Development Services Division.
This new unified and blended team of planners, plan checkers, permit technicians, inspectors, and other professional staff will provide a smoother permitting process for residents, businesses, and building professionals who contribute to the maintenance and development of the Glendale community.
Under a unified Development Services Division, the community can expect continued improvements to the permitting process, building on three consecutive years of reductions in review periods for various types of permits.
The new division became effective on Friday, August 1, 2025. A new Development Services webpage now serves as the hub for permits, planning, zoning, and building topics.
Headed Out of Town? Request a Free Vacation Check
Taking one last trip before summer ends? While you're away, the Glendale Police Department's Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol can help keep an eye on your home.
Requesting a vacation check is quick and easy. Visit GlendaleCA.gov/Police and navigate to the Crime Prevention Programs page to fill out the form.
Please note: Vacation checks are available only for single-family homes—not apartments or condominium complexes.
La Crescenta Rehabilitation Project Update
The La Crescenta Avenue Rehabilitation Project aims to improve roadway conditions, increase traffic safety, and boost pedestrian accessibility throughout the corridor.
Tentative Construction Schedule:
- August 1-31:
- Concrete sidewalk repairs and construction new ADA-Compliant curb ramps between Shirlyjean Street and Piedmont Avenue
- Traffic Signal Upgrades at various locations
- Sewer Upgrades between Las Palmas Avenue and North Verdugo Road
- Sewer Upgrades at Shirlyjean Intersection
Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Glendale
Earlier this year, the Office of the State Fire Marshal released updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps, which may reclassify certain properties within Glendale into new fire hazard zones. These zones are categorized as Moderate, High, or Very High and are determined based on recent scientific data and climate modeling that assess wildfire hazard potential. The revised maps are available on the City website at Vegetation Management & Brush Abatement | City of Glendale, CA.
On July 29, the City Council adopted the updated FHSZ maps for our Local Responsibility Area. To help educate the public about the new CAL FIRE maps, the Glendale Fire Department launched a multi-channel outreach effort. This included updating the City’s website with key resources and mailing informational materials to impacted residents. In-person outreach also included presentations at several HOA meetings—Montecito Park, College Hills, Whiting Woods, and Northwest Glendale—where staff discussed defensible space requirements and how the updated maps may affect homeowners. Let's keep Glendale fire-safe!
Glendale Tech Week 2025
Get ready for Glendale’s premier celebration of innovation and technology! From September 2nd - 4th, 2025, Glendale Tech Week will feature inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops, panel discussions, a job fair, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs, startups, tech professionals, and enthusiasts alike.
Looking to host a tech event during Glendale Tech Week? Applications are now open for individuals and organizations eager to showcase their innovation, share expertise, or lead engaging workshops. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Glendale’s thriving tech ecosystem!
New Library Hours Begin September 2
Beginning Tuesday, September 2, 2025, Glendale Library, Arts & Culture will implement updated hours at Central Library and Casa Verdugo Library to better serve the community.
New Hours:
Central Library
- Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Casa Verdugo Library
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
These updates are designed to improve the public’s experience at the library by focusing on the times with higher visitation and when programs are most active, ensuring staff can support programs and activities smoothly across all locations and engage with the public at community outreach events and the Bookmobile.
Additionally, thanks to the City Council's approval of the FY25-26 Budget, Teen Space and Sound Space hours will increase this fall.
Glendale Sees 22% Drop in Burglaries
Thanks to increased staffing and proactive enforcement by the Glendale Police Department, the City has seen a 22% decrease in burglaries—further reinforcing Glendale’s status as one of the safest cities in the nation.
But community safety is a shared effort. Here are a few simple ways you can help protect your home:
A few small steps can make a big difference. Let’s keep Glendale safe together.
Goats Return for Annual Brush Clearance Effort
For the fourth consecutive year, the Glendale Fire Department enlisted the help of an unusual — but highly effective — brush clearance crew: goats.
These natural grazers played a critical role in clearing nearly 21 acres of dense, dry vegetation in the steep and hard-to-reach Penshore area. Their work is a key component of the department’s ongoing Vegetation Management Program, designed to reduce wildfire risk and protect the community.
The goats began their work on June 30 and, over the course of two weeks, safely and efficiently removed fire-prone vegetation from the hillsides. This eco-friendly approach not only minimizes wildfire fuel but also preserves the surrounding landscape without the use of heavy machinery or chemicals.
If you didn’t get a chance to see the herd this time, don’t worry, the Department will be welcoming a new group of goats in the coming months as part of its continued fire mitigation efforts.
100 Years of the Alex Theatre
The Alex Theatre’s Centennial Season marks 100 years of creative legacy and cultural impact—a celebration of history, community, and bold new beginnings. This season features a rich blend of genres—from music and film to dance and comedy—ushering in an exciting new chapter for the Alex Theatre. As it enters its second century, the Alex is taking center stage in leading Southern California’s live arts scene forward.
Summer Concerts in the Park Continue!
Enjoy free, family-friendly concerts on Wednesday and Friday evenings in Glendale’s beautiful parks. Bring a picnic, blankets or chairs—and your dancing shoes—for live performances by talented bands all summer long.
Concerts at Verdugo Park are brought to you by the Community Services & Parks department and are supported, in part, by Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors through the Department of Arts and Culture.
Concerts at Brand Park are part of the Brand Summer Music Series, which is supported by the Glendale Arts and Culture Commission, through funding from the Urban Art Program, with support from Library, Arts & Culture, Community Services & Parks, and the Brand Associates.
Event Details:
Wednesdays, August 6 and 13, 2025
7:00 PM
Verdugo Park (North End)
1621 Cañada Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91208
Fridays, August 1 – August 29, 2025
7:00 PM
Brand Park
1601 W. Mountain St.
Glendale, CA 91201
Children's Entrepreneur Market
The Children’s Entrepreneur Market is teaming up with Community Services & Parks to bring an exciting marketplace to Verdugo Park this summer. Join us on Tuesday, August 6, during the Summer Concerts in the Park at Verdugo Park, for a unique marketplace run entirely by young entrepreneurs ages 5 to 17.
Participants will gain hands-on experience in product creation, customer engagement, packaging, and money management, all while building confidence and entrepreneurial spirit in a fun, supportive environment.
Event Details:
August 6, 2025
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Verdugo Park
1621 Cañada Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91208
GPD Community Academy
Have you ever wanted to see how law enforcement works from the inside? The Glendale Police Department’s Community Academy is your chance to learn directly from the officers, detectives, and professionals who keep Glendale safe.
This free 11-session program is open to those who live or work in Glendale and provides an in-depth look at police operations—from K9 units and SWAT to dispatchers, mental health outreach, and more.
Fall 2025 Session Dates:
Thursdays, September 11 – November 13, 2025
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Range Day: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Participants are encouraged to attend at least 10 of the 11 sessions.
Topics Include:
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Office of the Chief of Police
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K9 Unit & Air Support
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Narcotics & Financial Crime
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SWAT & Critical Incident Debriefs
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Gangs & Mental Health Outreach
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Robbery/Homicide, Burglary
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Homeless Services & More
This is an excellent opportunity to gain insight into how Glendale Police serve one of California’s safest communities—and how you can be part of the conversation.
For more information, please contact the Community Relations Team at 818-548-4015 OR email GPDCRT@Glendaleca.gov.
Shape the Future of Disability Services in LA County
The Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department, in partnership with the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities, is launching a Strategic Plan for Disability Services to guide service improvements over the next five years.
As part of this effort, a community survey is now open to gather input from individuals with disabilities, caregivers, service providers, and other stakeholders. The survey is available in all 14 County threshold languages and will remain open through August 21, 2025.
Batty for Bats – A Fun Family Night at the Campfire!
Join Community Services and Parks for an evening of discovery and fun as we learn about native bats, their vital role in our ecosystem, and the challenges they face. Kim Todd, L.A. Zoo docent and certified Bat Conservation International (BCI) ambassador, will lead an engaging presentation filled with songs, skits, and plenty of smiles.
Craft activity begins at 6:30 PM
Campfire program starts at 7:00 PM
RSVP required – space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot.
Event Details:
August 23, 2025
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Deukmejian Wilderness Park
3429 Markridge Road
Glendale, CA 91214
Classic Films Under the Stars Continue!
Join Community Services and Parks for the third season of Classic Films Under the Stars—free outdoor screenings on the lawn of the historic Doctors House in Brand Park. Presented by The Alex Film Society, Brand Associates, The Glendale Historical Society, and the Northwest Glendale Homeowner’s Association, this beloved summer tradition brings Hollywood classics to Glendale under the night sky.
Remaining Screenings:
• August 23 – That’s Entertainment! (1974)
• September 27 – The Pink Panther Strikes Again (1976)
Pack a picnic and enjoy movie magic under the stars.
This series is supported by Glendale’s Community Services & Parks Department and the Arts and Culture Commission.
Event Details:
August 23 and September 27, 2025
7:30 PM (gates open at 6:00 PM)
Brand Park – Doctors House Lawn
1601 W. Mountain St.
Glendale, CA 91201
2025 Southern California Open Chess Tournament
For the first time in its more than 30-year history, the California State Open Chess Tournament is moving to Glendale. Hosted by the American Chess Academy and dot818, this prestigious event will take place at the Embassy Suites Hotel from August 29 to September 1, 2025.
Players of all skill levels—from beginners to masters—are expected to compete, with more than 500 participants anticipated across seven sections.
Event Details:
August 29 – September 1, 2025
Embassy Suites Hotel
800 N. Central Ave.
Glendale, CA 91203
Call for Veterans
The City of Glendale is proud to recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. As part of our ongoing commitment to celebrating their dedication and sacrifice, we are creating a special tribute page on our website to spotlight Glendale’s veterans.
This page will serve as a lasting digital tribute to those who have worn the uniform and defended our freedoms, highlighting their service, stories, and contributions to our community and our nation.
If you or a loved one has served in any branch of the U.S. military and would like to be included in this tribute, we invite you to share your information with us.
Please email MyGlendale@GlendaleCA.gov with the following details:
- Full name
- Military branch
- Years of service
- A photo (optional)
- A brief message or reflection (optional)
Submissions will be featured on the City of Glendale’s official website in recognition of Veterans Day and beyond.
Let us honor your service. Thank you for your courage, commitment, and sacrifice.
Picnic Smart This Summer
The City encourages residents to recycle properly while enjoying summer picnics and outdoor gatherings. Food scraps such as fruit peels, eggshells, food-soiled napkins, and greasy pizza boxes belong in the organics recycling bin.
Remember: To-go cups, takeout containers, and compostable plastics should be kept out of the organics bin, as they cannot be processed at local facilities.
Splash Into Summer at Pacific Community Pool!
Your fun-filled summer is in full swing with swim lessons, water polo, swim team, the Junior Lifeguard Academy, and more.
Now Enrolling:
- Group & private swim lessons (limited spots!)
- Glendale Gators Swim Team
- Glendale Polo Bears Water Polo
Be sure to verify your 2025 residency and activate your MyGlendaleParks.com account before registering to avoid delays or additional fees.
Check schedules and program details at GlendaleAquatics.com.
Questions? Call (818) 937-7433.
Free Monthly Food Distribution for Seniors
Are you a senior looking to receive a free food kit once a month? Nutritious packages will be available at the Adult Recreation Center with options including fruits, juices, vegetables, milk, cheese, grains, proteins, and more! The food box is designed to supplement dietary intake of calcium, potassium, and vitamins seniors need to stay healthy. Age and income eligibility requirements apply.
To learn more, contact the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank at (323) 234-3030 x179 or CSFP@LAFoodBank.org.
Event Details:
August 26, 2025
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Adult Recreation Center
201 E. Colorado St.
Glendale, CA 91025
Off Peak EV charging Rebate!
Earn $12 a month just for charging your vehicle at the right time! The Off-Peak EV Charging Incentive program encourages Glendale EV drivers to charge their vehicles on weekdays between 9:00 PM and 12:00 PM the next day, a 15-hour window, and any time on the weekend using a Level 2 charger at home, including those in apartments or condos.
By shifting your charging habits, you'll not only help reduce strain on the electric grid — you'll also enjoy up to 1,900 miles of free driving every year. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the environment! Sign up today and make your EV work for you, even while you sleep.
Splash Pads Open for Summer 2025!
Cool off this summer at Glendale’s splash pads - Pacific Park and Cerritos Park!
Operating Hours:
Now – September 28, 2025
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Daily (Monday – Sunday)
October 4 – October 26, 2025
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Saturdays & Sundays only
Fremont Splash Pad remains closed for construction and will reopen soon. For updates, visit GlendaleAquatics.com.
Ride the Free Shuttle to Deukmejian Wilderness Park
Get to Deukmejian Wilderness Park with ease – no driving required! Wander the Wilderness Bus is a FREE shuttle service running every weekend, making it easy for you and your family to explore the park.
Funding for the bus is provided by Metro, a partner in our community.
Schedule Your Bulky Item Pickup Today!
Residents of single-family homes and small multi-family properties (1–4 units) can schedule a free bulky item pickup through the City of Glendale. Don’t let unwanted furniture or oversized items take up valuable space—book your pickup today at GlendaleCA.gov/BulkyItem.
For larger multi-family properties (5+ units), bulky item collection is managed by franchise haulers. Property managers can request service at GlendaleCA.gov/Hauler.
Make a Splash This Summer at Glendale’s Wading Pools!
Wading pools (1–2 feet deep) are perfect for kids 8 and under and are open for free drop-in use on a rotating schedule through August 17.
Planning a small gathering? Wading pools at Brand, Glenoaks, Dunsmore, and Palmer Parks are available for private rentals now through September (based on availability).
Rental Rates:
- $118 for the first hour
- $29 per additional hour
- Optional: $51 to reserve nearby tables
Reserve your spot at MyGlendaleParks.com with a $50 deposit. A staff member will contact you to confirm your reservation.
For questions, call (818) 937-7433 or visit GlendaleAquatics.com.
Stay Connected!
   
This is an official publication of the City of Glendale, distributed by the Communications Office. For inquiries, please contact City Connection Editor
Annette Ghazarian at Communications@GlendaleCA.gov or (818) 548-4844 Opt.1.
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