Sustainability Commission - 11/5/26

The MyGlendale Sustainability Commission’s November 5, 2026 meeting included an information presentation on the city’s Open Space, Conservation, and Recreation Element update. The draft is expected before the holidays, with public review and California Environmental Quality Act work to follow and anticipated adoption in summer 2027. Discussion focused on park access and equity, acquisition and joint-use opportunities, maintenance capacity, shade and tree canopy, wildfire resilience, and potential funding approaches. Staff reported that the city issued an RFP for planning and community engagement related to the former Joann’s Fabrics site, with 17 consultant responses under review; a consultant was expected to be selected in roughly three to four months. No contract award or procurement vote was reported.

A separate discussion addressed compliance with California AB 1572, which restricts use of potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf at government and commercial properties. Staff described planned turf removal and landscape redesign, including about 30,000 square feet associated with an earlier deadline and nearly 84,000 square feet by 2031. An existing capital improvement allocation of $250,000 was cited for planning, with staff considering whether additional funding would be needed; Measure A funds were also described as available for maintenance of eligible park projects, at approximately $125,000–$175,000 annually (the amount was unclear in the transcript). The commission had no action items; it approved the October 1 minutes by roll-call vote and later adjourned.