GLENDALE, Calif., Feb. 10, 2026 — The Glendale City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to advance plans for installing perimeter fencing at select city playgrounds, while also approving procedural changes to its meeting structure and hearing wide-ranging public concerns about housing, school safety, and development transparency.
Playground Fencing Proposal
The council directed staff to include funding for perimeter fencing at Maple Park in the upcoming Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget process. Maple Park was identified as the initial priority because it features an all-inclusive playground designed for children of varying abilities.
Two additional parks — Pelican Park and Montrose Park — were also identified for potential future fencing. Staff estimated installation costs at approximately $110,000 to $120,000 per site.
Supporters, including several parents and disability advocates, said fencing would enhance safety for children who may be prone to elopement, particularly those with autism or developmental disabilities. Speakers described fencing as a preventative safety measure that would allow families to use playgrounds with greater confidence.
Councilmembers acknowledged budget constraints and directed staff to explore grant opportunities and alternative funding sources. They also asked staff to pursue potential joint-use agreements with the Glendale Unified School District that could provide community access to already-fenced school playgrounds.
Governance Changes
In a separate action, the council unanimously approved a resolution amending its Rules of Order to move discussion of future agenda requests to the afternoon portion of regular meetings. The change is intended to improve meeting efficiency and avoid lengthy late-night deliberations.
The council also approved a request to create an alternate member position for the city’s Design Review Board and directed staff to return with implementation details.
Public Comment Themes
Public speakers raised several additional issues during the meeting.
One resident urged the city to prioritize housing assistance for disabled individuals facing hardship, arguing that limited public funds should focus on immediate human needs.
Another speaker questioned the scope of the city’s Charter Review Committee and expressed concerns about transparency in development approvals and transit planning.
School safety also remained a prominent topic. A parent spoke about concerns following incidents at Glenoaks Elementary School, while a former educator raised allegations regarding past misconduct cases within the Glendale Unified School District and called for increased accountability.
Earlier in the meeting, a resident requested traffic safety improvements near the Kenilworth tunnel area, citing increased pedestrian and scooter activity.
Legal Authorization
The council unanimously authorized the City Attorney to retain outside legal counsel, Parent & Bout PC, to assist with investigation and potential litigation related to a city matter. Specific details were not discussed publicly.
Looking Ahead
The playground fencing proposal will return as part of the city’s broader budget deliberations. Staff are expected to report back on funding options and potential school district partnerships in future meetings.
The meeting concluded with no further action items.
