Glendale, CA – The City of Glendale has successfully defended the City Council’s selection of Elen Asatryan as Mayor in April 2024 against a lawsuit by Councilmember Ara Najarian challenging that decision. The lawsuit, filed on July 1, 2024, alleged that the Council’s selection process violated his constitutional rights. In October 2024, the court rejected all of Councilmember Najarian’s claims, ruling that he had no constitutional entitlement to or property interest in the mayorship and affirming that the Council’s decision was lawful and within its discretion.
Defending the lawsuit cost the City $77,578.04 in attorneys’ fees and costs, of which $11,297.48 were recoverable. The Court also denied a subsequent motion by Councilmember Najarian challenging the City’s request for costs. As directed by the court, Councilmember Najarian has since paid the recoverable costs to the City.
The judicial process includes opportunities for appeal, but Councilmember Najarian has elected not to appeal.
“We appreciate the court’s clear affirmation that the Council acted appropriately and within its legal authority,” said Mayor Elen Asatryan. “With this matter resolved and as always, we are focused on serving our residents and continuing the important work of the City.”
The City of Glendale remains committed to ensuring that policy decisions are guided by collaboration, good governance, and the best interests of the community. The City is continuing the important work of governing effectively and responsively. City operations remain steady, and the Council is united in its focus on delivering results for the Glendale community.
