Glendale declares May 2025 Building Safety and Arbor Days with community events

The Glendale City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, spotlighted two significant proclamations: May was declared Building Safety Month and Arbor Day, emphasizing the city's commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

Building Safety Month, celebrated for the 45th year, aims to raise awareness about the vital role building codes play in ensuring safety in homes and workplaces. Councilmember Calvert highlighted the importance of building safety professionals, acknowledging their efforts to enhance customer service and community relations. This year's campaign will focus on how building safety impacts daily life, with events planned to engage the community, including educational presentations in local schools and a forum for feedback on the permitting process. The city will also host a celebration in Perkins Plaza, inviting residents to connect with building safety staff and learn about their work.

In a related discussion, the council proclaimed May 6 as Arbor Day, marking Glendale's 74th celebration of this event. Urban Forester Lauren Click emphasized the city's dedication to tree preservation and the importance of community involvement in maintaining urban greenery. However, public comments raised concerns about recent tree removals at Glendale Garden Homes, which critics argue undermine the city's sustainability efforts. Residents called for stronger protections for trees, urging the council to take decisive action to safeguard the urban canopy.

The meeting concluded with a proclamation for Older Americans Month, celebrating the contributions of seniors in Glendale. Community Services representative Maggie Kavarian announced various activities planned for the month, including a senior street fest and a bingo event sponsored by the Los Angeles Dodgers.

These discussions reflect Glendale's ongoing efforts to promote safety, environmental responsibility, and community engagement, while also addressing the challenges posed by development and climate change.