Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Glendale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
18 issues in taxes budget
FY 2026 Audit Work Plan Review and FY 2027 Proposed Work Plan
The internal audit division presented on how it leverages advanced data analytics software and generative AI tools for preliminary research and document polishing while maintaining strict data security and manual review protocols.
FY 2027-2028 CDBG Funding Allocation and Program Priorities
The committee is reviewing how federal Community Development Block Grant funds will be distributed across various categories and establishing program priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. These choices directly affect local nonprofits, social services, and neighborhood capital projects that rely on federal support.
FY 2026-27 General Fund Budget and Five-Year Forecast
The commission discussed potential budget cuts that could eliminate the city's summer concert series, noting that library-run music programs might continue while park concerts are scaled back or cut.
Office of the City Auditor and Independent Audit Commission Charter Amendment
The committee is working on charter language to create a permanent, independent Office of the City Auditor and an Audit Commission with authority over work plans and budget reviews to ensure better financial oversight.
Proposed 0.25% Transactions and Use Tax Measure for November 2026 Ballot
Mayor Kassakhian proposed placing a quarter-cent sales tax measure on the November ballot to secure local revenues and prevent county preemption. The council agreed to discuss this proposal further at an upcoming special meeting.
Charter Review Committee Proposals for Internal Audit
Staff and committee members discussed potential charter amendments to revive an executive City Auditor position and embed the Audit Committee into the City Charter with final approval authority over audit plans.
Internal Audit Division Staffing and Quarterly Activity
A resident raised concerns about low staffing levels in the city auditor's office, short recruitment windows, and limited contract audits, urging the commission to review requirements.
City Charter Review and November Ballot Measures
The City Council discussed placing comprehensive charter amendments on the November 2026 ballot, covering civil service rules, financial fund accounting, and city clerk/treasurer provisions.
LACAHSA Measure A Budget and Renter Assistance Programs
Glendale is receiving about $5.1 million in Los Angeles County Measure A sales tax funds for affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and direct renter aid. City staff are launching the GRASP rental assistance program in July to help low-income households.
Municipal Insurance Policy Renewals
The city approved nearly $9.9 million for its annual insurance packages, utilizing a deductible corridor to save money on excess liability.
Municipal Election Results Certification
The city officially certified the results of the June 2, 2026, general municipal election, which saw a 39.95% voter turnout and confirmed wins for council, clerk, and treasurer seats.
FY 2026-27 Glendale Housing Authority Budget
The council reviewed and adopted the $64.7 million Housing Authority budget, which funds Section 8 vouchers, homeless grants, and affordable housing programs. Residents raised questions about the deployment of Measure A funds and tenant rental assistance bridges.
FY 2026-27 CDBG, ESG, and HOME Annual Action Plan
Glendale is receiving about $3.2 million in federal housing and community grants for the upcoming year, which funds local nonprofits, homeless services, and affordable housing. The council reviewed allocations for various community agencies and public social services.
City Treasurer and Clerk Qualifications
The committee debated whether to require professional certifications like CPAs or CFAs for elected financial officers. Ultimately, members decided against adding hurdles for voters, choosing to keep existing qualifications.
Citywide Fee Schedule Updates
Staff proposed adjustments to city fees, moving most community development and building fees to full cost recovery while updating parking and citation fees.
Public Records and City Clerk Time Off Concerns
Residents raised concerns during public comment about elected officials' attendance and public records transparency regarding staff leave.
Customer Payment Arrears and Economic Distress
A public commenter highlighted that thousands of South Glendale households received shut-off notices due to rising utility costs, urging the commission to regularly review customer payment arrears and financial hardship reports.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in Auditing
Committee members requested that staff explore and report back on tools utilizing artificial intelligence to improve the efficiency of municipal auditing processes.