United people power makes a difference

Thirty-plus years ago, city dump trucks were going to use East Glenoaks Boulevard as the main road to the Scholl Canyon Landfill. Neighbors protested, organized and convinced our city council to use Figueroa Street instead. Glenoaks Canyon Homeowners Association was started.

Approximately five years ago, my wife and I went up and down Glenoaks and surrounding streets requesting neighbors to come before the city council or sign a petition asking when can East Glenoaks Boulevard potholes be repaired and possibly the whole street repaired. About a month later, Glendale Public Works repaired the potholes.

In 2011, the association contacted the city requesting the repairing of Glenoaks. This summer, I understand, the Public Works Department will start that work.

Years ago, a developer wanted to cut and fill the ridge lines in the hills of Glenoaks Canyon in order to build view lots. The association fought this idea. The developer built his homes without the view lots and residents are still enjoying the beauty of their hills.

In November 2011, a small group of individuals put GWP and City Council members on the defensive when they established a forum that brought together approximately 200 residents and experts to hear about the health, security and privacy issues surrounding smart meters.

Recently, a group of cyclists living in Glendale and the surroundings areas have organized and today they are promoting and requesting a “road diet” along Honolulu Boulevard and elsewhere.

Democracy shines when citizens unite and form groups with common causes like traffic control, open space/ hillside protection, community planning, road resurfacing, neighborhood watch, cell towers, smart meters or bicycle lanes.

Who says people power that is motivated and united can’t make a difference?

Mike Mohill

Glendale