Batting Cage Owner Asks for Delay in Trial

The operator of the Glendale Batting Cage asked the City Council on Tuesday to delay his trial on charges that he violated the city’s noise ordinance, displayed an illegal sign and had an illegal building at his business.

David R. Johnson asked the council instead to instruct city staff members and noise experts to meet with him at the batting center.

He told the council that the city attorney’s office has refused to work with him to resolve the complaints without going to court. “My cooperation has never been lacking in this matter,” he said.

But City Manager David H. Ramsay responded: “His memory is a bit selective. The city has worked extensively with him to gain compliance.”

The council did not order a delay in Johnson’s trial, which is scheduled Wednesday in Glendale Municipal Court. But council members told Ramsay to prepare a background report on the batting cage dispute for next Tuesday’s council meeting.

Five people spoke in support of the center, saying it promotes wholesome athletic activities for youngsters. The batting cage, 620 E. Colorado St., has operated for 25 years, the last eight under Johnson’s ownership.

Over the past two years, nearby residents and business owners have complained about noise and stray balls that slip through the surrounding safety net. They also complained about an illegal sign and a now-closed snack bar building that remains on the premises.

City officials said the center exceeded Glendale’s noise standards in tests conducted in July and October, leading to the misdemeanor charges filed in January.