Residents defend Councilmember Rosati at Burbank meeting as recall petition surfaces

At the start of general public comment, callers and in-person speakers addressed a recall petition seeking the removal of Councilmember Christopher Rosati. Several callers who identified themselves as long‑time residents urged the council to require clear evidence for recalls and defended Rosati’s record of community engagement.

One caller said recalls are “meant for serious misconduct” and that labels such as “racist” or “xenophobic” must be supported by credible evidence. Another caller described Rosati as a devoted community member who regularly attends events and supports residents.

Councilmember Rosati responded later in the meeting, calling some published claims “fraudulent,” saying he had repeatedly recused himself when required, and noting long‑term civic involvement and charitable fundraising. He also said he had offered to meet privately with petition organizers. Rosati said that if the petition contains falsehoods it is damaging and asked for it to be withdrawn.

Beyond the recall discussion, public commenters raised housing policy concerns, including questions about SB 79 and its local impacts, requests for staff to share meetings with state legislators and Metro, and calls for more public housing. Multiple speakers urged the council to take action on short‑term rentals (Airbnb) and to consider enforcement options.

Council members heard the public and asked staff to provide copies of correspondence with Metro, SCAG, and legislative offices. No formal action on the recall was taken at the meeting; the council’s immediate next steps focused on information sharing and on scheduled staff reports on housing-related matters.