Burbank Parks Board approves arts grants and appointments, hears World Cup and Scientology-related public comments
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Summary
The Parks and Recreation Board on Jan. 20 approved $61,500 in community arts grants, appointed two volunteers to the Burbank Athletic Federation, set two 'dark' months for 2026, and heard public concerns about alleged Scientology-linked groups seeking involvement with city programs.
The Burbank Parks and Recreation Board met Jan. 20 in City Council Chambers, approved the department’s recommended arts funding, confirmed two volunteer appointments to the Burbank Athletic Federation and adopted routine consent items.
Erin Barrows, recreation services manager, recommended allocating the full $61,500 available in the Community Arts Grant Program to 18 awardees. The board moved to approve the allocation and passed the motion by roll call.
John McGinley, recreation manager for sports and aquatics, recommended appointing Larry Nelson and Dennis Roy to three-year terms on the Burbank Athletic Federation board; the board voted to confirm both appointments.
The board also approved holding no regular meetings in July and December 2026 and adopted the consent calendar, which included minutes, contract compliance items, the police park patrol report and departmental operations updates.
Members of the public used the meeting’s public comment period to raise two main themes: one speaker asked the board to review the use of a public facility at the Joslyn Adult Center by a local women’s group he described as restrictive; several other speakers warned staff to review groups that they said have ties to Scientology and to monitor permit uses. Staff and board members responded that city practice requires permitting for First Amendment activities, that staff will consult the city attorney about any discrimination concerns, and that park permit reviews and park patrols can help address misuse.
During announcements, senior recreation leader Ricky Corrado highlighted upcoming programs including family events at the Verdugo Aquatic Facility, a Burbank Adaptive Sports Expo, and a Real Madrid–Barcelona legends match clinic that the department said drew community interest.
The meeting concluded with a memorial recognition for Tom McDonald, a longtime volunteer in Burbank sports, followed by adjournment.