June 27, 2025

Cactus District Weekly Update

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🌵 Let’s Stick Together… on Facebook and Instagram! 🌵

The Cactus District is blooming online, and we don’t want you to miss out! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates, events, behind-the-scenes moments, and maybe even a few surprise giveaways. 🌟

What's Happening in Glendale?

Presenting Glendale Police Chief Colby Brandt

It is with great pride and heartfelt congratulations that I celebrate the exciting news: Colby Brandt has been officially appointed as Glendale’s Chief of Police.

Chief Brandt is no stranger to our community. A native son of Glendale and a 28-year veteran of our police department, he has served with steadfast dedication in nearly every capacity—from patrol officer to assistant chief. Over the past four months, he has demonstrated steady, principled leadership as Interim Chief, and we are incredibly fortunate to see him continue that service in a permanent role.

What makes this moment even more special is that Chief Brandt represents the very best of homegrown leadership—someone who not only understands our city but has grown with it. His commitment to public safety, officer development, and building meaningful partnerships speaks volumes about his vision for Glendale’s future.

Please join me in thanking Chief Brandt for his continued service and congratulating him on this well-earned achievement. I look forward to the impact his leadership will have as we work together to keep Glendale safe, strong, and thriving.

Councilmember Conchas Appointed to Regional Community Leadership Committee

I am proud to share that I have been appointed by the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) Regional Council to serve on the newly formed Community Initiatives Coordinating Committee (CICC). It is a deep honor to represent the City of Glendale and the Cactus District in this regional effort to strengthen communities across the Valley.

The CICC plays a vital role in shaping and guiding human services and community planning across Maricopa County. As one of just five members representing the West Valley, I am committed to lifting up the voices of Glendale residents, sharing local insights, and advancing innovative, compassionate solutions to the challenges we face—particularly those surrounding housing, public health, and social well-being.

This committee reflects a powerful opportunity to ensure our regional strategies are rooted in the real experiences of the people who call this area home. I’m looking forward to collaborating with local leaders from cities, towns, and tribal communities to move forward with smart, community-focused planning.

Thank you for trusting me to serve. It’s your stories, your concerns, and your hopes for our district that will continue guiding me in this important new role.

Glendale Fire Department:

Station 153 Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Yesterday morning, I had the honor of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Fire Station 153 in the Sahuaro District. It was a proud moment for our city and a powerful reminder of how investment in public safety infrastructure directly supports the health and well-being of our first responders.

The new station design represents a modern, forward-thinking approach to fire service. With innovative technologies aimed at reducing exposure to cancerous chemicals, the facility includes advanced decontamination features that protect firefighters when they return from a call.

Beyond safety upgrades, Station 153 includes enhanced living quarters, a recharge room, and a modernized kitchen and lounge to support the physical and mental well-being of our crews.

This station sets the standard for what we hope to achieve across Glendale.

As we continue investing in the renovation and modernization of fire stations citywide, we're building a stronger foundation for public safety—one that respects and protects the people who serve us daily.

A heartfelt thank you to our taxpayers for making this possible. Your investment in our fire department is already making a difference.

Glendale Launches America250:

A Yearlong Celebration of Our Nation’s Legacy

At Tuesday night’s Council meeting, I had the privilege of standing beside my colleagues as Mayor Jerry P. Weiers officially proclaimed July 2025 as the launch of America250 in the City of Glendale. This special moment marks the beginning of a yearlong celebration leading up to our country’s 250th birthday on July 4, 2026 — our Semiquincentennial.

As your Councilmember, I encourage all Glendale residents to take part in the many exciting events, educational programs, and civic projects that will be rolled out over the next year. From neighborhood festivals to community art, from history projects to youth engagement, there will be countless ways to reflect on the story of America — and write our next chapter together.

We were honored to welcome a very special guest to help kick things off: actor Ron Bellus, appearing as General George Washington himself, joined Mayor Weiers in reading the official America250 proclamation. It was a reminder of the enduring spirit of service and unity that built this nation — and that still defines Glendale today.

Let’s celebrate this milestone not only by honoring the past, but by shaping the future for generations to come.

Stay tuned for more ways to get involved throughout the year!

Celebrating the Spirit of 623 Day in Downtown Glendale

What an incredible day we had in Historic Downtown Glendale for our inaugural 623 Day! From sunrise to sunset, the heart of our city came alive with community pride, local flavor, and unbeatable $6.23 deals that brought smiles to faces of all ages.

I had the pleasure of visiting several of our amazing small businesses alongside friends, family, and special guests—including Arizona State Senator Analise Ortiz. The energy was electric, the turnout was fantastic, and the sense of connection was exactly what makes Glendale such a special place to call home.

623 Day is more than just a nod to our area code—it’s a celebration of who we are. It’s about supporting the entrepreneurs who pour their hearts into their shops, the artists and makers who bring creativity to our streets, and the neighbors who show up to make it all matter.



Thank you to the Downtown Merchants for their hard work and hospitality, and to everyone who came out to explore, shop, and celebrate. Let’s carry this momentum forward and continue to uplift our local businesses—not just on 6/23, but every day.

🌮 A Michelin-Starred Experience in Glendale This Weekend 🌮

El Califa de León, the world’s first and only Michelin-starred taco stand, is now hosting a special pop-up in the heart of Glendale.



From now through Sunday, June 29, this iconic taquería from Mexico City is serving its famous tacos—including the much-celebrated Taco Gaonera—at the Westgate Entertainment District. The flavors are as extraordinary as promised: bold, authentic, and unforgettable.

It’s not every day we get to welcome a culinary legend to our city. I highly recommend stopping by this weekend to enjoy this rare and delicious experience with friends and family.

Hours of Operation:

June 27: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM

June 28: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM

June 29: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM

For more info, visit tacoboutglendale.com.

Cactus District Citizens’ Advisory Council: A Community Committed to Progress

This week, we held our second Citizens’ Advisory Council meeting, bringing together our members who care deeply about the future of our city and the Cactus District. Together, we engaged in open, thoughtful conversations about the ongoing challenges we face—particularly the urgent issue of homelessness—and took time to reflect on the meaningful progress made over the past six months.

We also had the pleasure of appointing a new co-chair to help lead this important work alongside Gary Hirsch. Please join me in congratulating Irene Avalos, who was unanimously elected by her fellow council members. Her dedication to the community and collaborative spirit make her a valuable addition to the council's leadership.

I'm incredibly grateful to these engaged citizens who continue to show up, speak up, and support one another. Their passion and commitment to making our community stronger are truly inspiring.

Thank you for being part of the solution

Meet Your Neighbors:

The Citizens’ Advisory Council Spotlights Continue

Last week, we began introducing you to our members. These introductions are more than just profiles—they’re windows into the incredible diversity, passion, and perspective that shape our community.

In this week's spotlight are Irene Avalaos, Malena Tautimer, and Willard Watts.

Stay tuned each week as we lift up the voices of these dedicated residents. I’m excited for you to get to know them the way I have: as thoughtful, committed neighbors ready to help guide a stronger future for all of us.

Before you head out, a quick word of advice from the Glendale Fire Department and Arizona State Parks & Trails.

Trail Safety Starts Before You Hike

As temps rise, so do the risks—hiking in extreme heat can quickly turn dangerous. Whether you're heading out early or pushing for that summit, keep these safety tips in mind:

✅ Start Early – Beat the heat and aim to finish before midday.

💧 Hydrate Constantly – One liter of water per hour minimum.

🧢 Dress Smart – Light, breathable layers and sun protection.

📱 Know Your Trail – Research length, difficulty, and access points.

📍 Tell Someone Your Plan – And stick to it.

🚨 Recognize Heat Illness – Dizziness, nausea, or confusion are red flags. Stop and get help.

If in doubt,don’t go out. Many rescues begin with hikers underestimating how quickly the Arizona heat takes a toll.

Know your limits. Respect the heat. And hike smart.

La Seguridad en los Senderos Comienza Antes de Salir a Caminar

A medida que las temperaturas aumentan, también aumentan los riesgos: caminar en calor extremo puede volverse peligroso rápidamente. Ya sea que salgas temprano o que busques alcanzar esa cumbre, ten en cuenta estos consejos de seguridad:

✅ Comienza Temprano – Evita el calor y trata de terminar antes del mediodía.

💧 Hidrátate Constantemente – Mínimo un litro de agua por hora.

🧢 Vístete de Manera Inteligente – Usa capas ligeras y transpirables y protección solar.

📱 Conoce Tu Sendero – Investiga la longitud, dificultad y puntos de acceso.

📍 Informa a Alguien de Tu Plan – Y síguelo.

🚨 Reconoce la Enfermedad por Calor – Mareos, náuseas o confusión son señales de alerta. Detente y busca ayuda.

Si tienes dudas, no salgas. Muchos rescates comienzan con excursionistas que subestiman lo rápido que el calor de Arizona puede afectarles.

Conoce tus límites. Respeta el calor. Y sal a caminar de manera inteligente.

Take Action

• Drive less, carpool, use public transit, or telecommute. For information on transportation alternatives, visit ShareTheRide.com.
• Fuel your vehicle after dark or during cooler evening hours
• Reduce wait time in long drive-thru lines. Park your vehicle and walk inside at coffee shops, fast-food restaurants, curbside pick-up, and banks.
• Use low-VOCs (volatile organic compounds) or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.
• Delay large painting projects until HPAs have passed.
• Properly seal containers of household cleaners, garage and yard chemicals, and other solvents to prevent vapors from evaporating into the air. Eliminate wood burning in fireplaces, stoves, chimeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Avoid using leaf blowers. Use a rake or broom to keep debris out of the road and away from storm drains, ditches, and streams.
• Conserve electricity.

🚗☀️ Never Leave a Child in a Hot Car ☀️🚗

In just minutes, a parked car can become a deadly oven, especially for children. Even with windows cracked, interior temperatures can soar to over 120°F, putting young lives at serious risk of heatstroke or death.

👶 Children’s bodies heat up 3–5 times faster than adults.

📈 Heatstroke can occur in temperatures as low as 70°F.

⚠️ Nearly 40 children die each year in the U.S. due to being left in hot cars.

💡 REMEMBER:

🧸 Look Before You Lock.

📅 Place reminders like a stuffed animal in the front seat.

📲 Set phone alerts to check the back seat.

Together, we can prevent tragedy.

🚗☀️ Nunca Dejes a un Niño en un Coche Caliente ☀️🚗

En tan solo unos minutos, un coche estacionado puede convertirse en un horno mortal, especialmente para los niños. Incluso con las ventanas entreabiertas, las temperaturas internas pueden superar los 120°F, poniendo en grave riesgo la vida de un niño.

👶 Los cuerpos de los niños se calientan de 3 a 5 veces más rápido que los de los adultos.

📈 Un golpe de calor puede ocurrir en temperaturas tan bajas como 70°F.

⚠️ Casi 40 niños mueren cada año en los Estados Unidos por ser dejados en coches calientes.

💡 RECUERDA:

🧸 Mira Antes de Cerrar.

📅 Coloca recordatorios como un muñeco de peluche en el asiento delantero.

📲 Configura alertas en tu teléfono para revisar el asiento trasero.

Juntos, podemos prevenir una tragedia.

WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

GLENDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

ALHAMBRA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

PHOENIX UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

GLENDALE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Free Sports Physicals and Backpacks for Students This Summer

Mountain Park Health Center is helping families get ready for the upcoming school year by offering free sports physicals through August 30. Whether your child needs a physical to participate in sports or just to meet school requirements, Mountain Park is here to help—at no cost to you.

As an added bonus, every student who receives a physical will also get a free backpack, making it easier for families to prepare for back-to-school. Mountain Park can even assist families in applying for AHCCCS if needed.

Appointments are available by calling (602) 243-7277, or you can visit the Mountain Park website for more information.

Take advantage of this opportunity to check one more thing off your back-to-school list!

Disclaimer: This service is provided solely by Mountain Park Health Center. The City of Glendale is not affiliated with, nor responsible for, the services offered. Participation is voluntary and subject to the terms and conditions set forth by Mountain Park Health Center.

Exámenes físicos deportivos gratuitos y mochilas para estudiantes este verano

El Centro de Salud Mountain Park está ayudando a las familias a prepararse para el próximo año escolar ofreciendo exámenes físicos deportivos gratuitos hasta el 30 de agosto. Ya sea que su hijo necesite un examen físico para participar en deportes o solo para cumplir con los requisitos escolares, Mountain Park está aquí para ayudar—sin costo alguno para usted.

Como un beneficio adicional, cada estudiante que reciba un examen físico también recibirá una mochila gratis, facilitando la preparación de las familias para el regreso a clases. Mountain Park incluso puede ayudar a las familias a solicitar AHCCCS si es necesario.

Las citas están disponibles llamando al (602) 243-7277, o puede visitar el sitio web de Mountain Park para más información.

¡Aproveche esta oportunidad para eliminar una cosa más de su lista de regreso a clases!

Aviso: Este servicio es proporcionado únicamente por Mountain Park Health Center. La Ciudad de Glendale no está afiliada ni es responsable de los servicios ofrecidos. La participación es voluntaria y está sujeta a los términos y condiciones establecidos por Mountain Park Health Center.

Free Breakfast and Lunch Summer Meals for 1 to 18-year-olds

Desayuno y almuerzo gratis durante el verano para jóvenes de 1 a 18 años

Know Someone Looking for a Job?

The Glendale Union High School District is hosting a Job Fair on Thursday, July 10!

Thursday, July 10

4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Moon Valley High School

3625 W. Cactus Rd

Phoenix, AZ 85029

👩‍🍳 Food Service

🛠️ Maintenance

🚌 Bus Drivers/Assistants

🗂️ Clerical

📚 Instructional Assistants … and more!

✅ Competitive pay

✅ Great benefits

✅ Supportive team

📞 Call 623-435-6010 for details.

🎒 Save the Date! 🚌

The Glendale Elementary School District and the Kiwanis Club of Glendale are teaming up to host the annual “Stuff the Bus” School Supply Drive. Stock up on classroom supplies while also giving back to support GESD students.📚✏️

Saturday, July 26

8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Walmart Supercenter

5605 W Northern Ave

Glendale, AZ 85301

8th Annual Community Health Fair

The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you this summer for the 8th Annual Community Health Fair!

Saturday, July 26, 2025

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Phoenix College, North Gym

1202 W. Thomas Rd.

Phoenix, AZ 85013

This FREE event provides members of the community with health screenings, health & wellness information, and various family-friendly activities! This event is open to the public!

Attendees will also get to experience...

• Arizona Sports Teams
• Free Health Screenings
• Health & Wellness Information
• Entertainment 
• Raffle Prizes
• Children’s Activities

For event sponsorship opportunities, contact KaylaF@azhcc.com. For exhibitor opportunities, contact BethB@azhcc.com. Medical-related services will be given priority. 

FREE EVENT - Open to the public!

View Event and Register Here

Contact Information

Beth Banda, Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Email: BethB@azhcc.com

#AZHCCHealth

8ª Feria Anual de Salud Comunitaria

¡Este verano celebramos la salud de nuestra comunidad en la 8ª Feria Anual de Salud Comunitaria, gracias a Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce!

Sábado 26 de julio

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Phoenix College, North Gym

1202 W. Thomas Rd.

Phoenix, AZ 85013

¡Acompáñanos! Habrá exámenes de salud gratuitos, actividades divertidas para toda la familia, rifas y mucho más. Será un día dedicado al bienestar y a la conexión.

EVENTO GRATUITO - Abierto al público

¡No te lo pierdas!

Para oportunidades de patrocinio, comunícate con KaylaF@azhcc.com.

Regístrate Aquí

Are you a small business owner in the Cactus District or do business in Glendale?

We’re launching a low-pressure, no-cost way for you to get connected: the Cactus District Small Business Network!

All you have to do is place a free membership sticker on your door — no meetings, no obligations, just a simple way to show you're part of a growing community of local businesses.

Members might be featured in future newsletters and social media, and we’ll create opportunities to spotlight your business and connect with residents, without asking you to step away from your day-to-day work.

Support local. Build community. Stay focused on your hustle.

Sign up today, and we’ll put you on our list for an upcoming sticker printing order.

The City of Glendale offers an Emergency Home Repair Program designed to help eligible homeowners maintain the safety and livability of their homes. This program provides essential repairs for issues that pose immediate risks, such as lack of running water, electricity, or heating and cooling.

To qualify, applicants must meet certain criteria, including residing within Glendale city limits, owning and occupying their home for at least one year, and meeting federal income guidelines for low/moderate-income households. Assistance is limited to emergency repairs that directly impact habitability.

For more details on eligibility and how to apply, visit the City of Glendale's Home Repair Assistance page or call (623) 930-3670.

Ensuring safe and stable housing is a priority. Don't hesitate to explore this valuable resource if you are in need of it!

La ciudad de Glendale ofrece un programa de reparación de viviendas de emergencia diseñado para ayudar a los propietarios de viviendas elegibles a mantener la seguridad y habitabilidad de sus hogares. Este programa proporciona reparaciones esenciales para problemas que representan riesgos inmediatos, como la falta de agua potable, electricidad o calefacción y refrigeración.

Para calificar, los solicitantes deben cumplir con ciertos requisitos, incluyendo residir dentro de los límites de la ciudad de Glendale, ser propietarios y ocupar su hogar durante al menos un año, y cumplir con las pautas de ingresos federales para hogares de ingresos bajos/moderados. La asistencia se limita a reparaciones de emergencia que impacten directamente la habitabilidad.

Para obtener más detalles sobre la elegibilidad y cómo aplicar, visita la página de Asistencia para Reparación de Viviendas de la Ciudad de Glendale o llama al (623) 930-3670.

Asegurar una vivienda segura y estable es una prioridad. ¡No dudes en explorar este valioso recurso si lo necesitas!

Want to save some money while helping the planet? 🌍

Check out our Water Conservation rebates! This program is all about encouraging our community to conserve water and make water-efficient upgrades that really work.

💧 For more details, visit: https://www.glendaleaz.com/rebates

Water Conservation Rebates

Water Conservation rebates are a financial incentive, where the cost is partially offset by the City of Glendale for its water customers in the Glendale service area. The purpose of this rebate program is to encourage community water conservation efforts and water-efficiency upgrades that are proven to save water.

Glendale cares about the water we all share!

Please read the full program terms and conditions here.

¿Quieres ahorrar algo de dinero mientras ayudas al planeta? 🌍

¡Consulta nuestros reembolsos por Conservación de Agua! Este programa se trata de alentar a nuestra comunidad a conservar agua y hacer mejoras en eficiencia que realmente funcionan.

💧 Para más detalles, visita: https://www.glendaleaz.com/rebates

Reembolsos por Conservación de Agua

Los reembolsos por conservación de agua son un incentivo financiero, donde el costo es parcialmente compensado por la Ciudad de Glendale para sus clientes de agua en el área de servicio de Glendale. El propósito de este programa de reembolsos es animar los esfuerzos de conservación de agua de la comunidad y las mejoras en eficiencia que han demostrado ahorrar agua.

¡A Glendale le importa el agua que todos compartimos!

Por favor, lea los términos y condiciones completos del program aquí.

For more information about Desert Diamond Events, click here.

GLENDALE PARKS AND REC

Discover Glendale @ Play Recreation Magazine!

Exciting news for our community! The Glendale @ Play Recreation Magazine is your go-to guide for all things recreation in Glendale. Whether you're looking for fun activities, engaging classes, or ways to stay active, this magazine has it all.

Stay connected and explore the latest programs, events, and opportunities available to you. Subscribe today to receive your copy and start planning your next adventure!

Learn more here.

GLENDALE PUBLIC LIBRARY EVENTS

Apply Now: AZ Youth Arts Council

The Arizona Commission on the Arts invites teen creatives to join the AZ Youth Arts Council to ensure that Arizona’s youth perspective is heard in arts programming and policy.

Who Are We?

We’re an agency of the State of Arizona dedicated to creating opportunities for all Arizonans to participate in and experience the arts.

Who Are You?

You’re a creative, passionate, community-minded Arizonan, age 14-19.

AZ Youth Arts Council Members Will…

• Learn about policy to advocate for equal access to the arts for all young people in Arizona
• Advise the Arts Commission on grant programs and initiatives that directly affect young people
• Help administer the Creative Youth Grant to young people throughout Arizona
• Review issues related to arts and culture programs and services for young people
• Create arts and media projects highlighting the arts in their communities
• Receive a stipend of up to $800
• 
  

APPLY

Applications must be submitted by July 25, 2025.

The Arts Commission will announce those selected to join the AZ Youth Arts Council the week of August 25, 2024. The council’s first online meeting will be held in October 2025 and continue monthly through May 2026.

Details

Website: Home - Arizona Commission on the Arts

Deadline: July 25, 2025

How to Apply: Visit AZ Youth Arts Council - Arizona Commission on the Arts for more information and to submit your application!

Annual Christmas in July

Saturday, July 12, 2025

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Annual Christmas in July on Saturday, July 12. The locally-owned businesses in the Catlin Court and Old Towne shopping and dining districts have planned a very merry day! There will be festive things to do throughout the day, including make-and-take activities (some have a nominal fee), artist demonstrations, and fun photo ops.

Returning this year is the Recipe Trail Cookbook. Follow the activity sheet to pick up recipes along the way.

Start at the Arizona Information Center (5836 W. Palmaire Ave) to pick up the activity list and walking map. The first 100 guests will receive the commemorative event sticker, which is part of the ongoing sticker series produced by the Historic Downtown Glendale Merchants Association. 

Don't miss the special Charm Drop to add to (or begin) your HDG Charm Bracelet. The starter bracelet and special event charm can be purchased for $5 at Glendale Flowers & Gifts (7163 N. 58th Drive,) Memory Lane Trinkets and Treasures (5836 W. Palmaire Ave.,) or Pink House Boutique (7009 N. 58th Ave.) Then, follow the Charm Trail map to purchase additional charms for $2 each at more than 30 participating shops. Each charm depicts the unique and iconic qualities of the individual businesses.

An important part of our Annual Christmas in July event is the Back-to-School Supply Drive to benefit the Glendale Elementary School District.

Presented by the Historic Downtown Glendale Merchants Association in partnership with the Downtown Business Community.

Registration details coming soon

Save the Date!

Registration details coming soon

Looking for more to do in Glendale? Click Here for the Parks and Recreation calendar.

LET'S TALK TRASH!

GET TO KNOW YOUR CITY

Cactus District (As of Thursday, 6/26/25):



• The Pavement Management Program is COMPLETE for the current fiscal year. City staff is actively pursuing commitments and schedules from our contractors to address the remaining miles in the Cactus District for the next fiscal year.



City Manager's Update

June 24, 2025

Meet Glendale’s new police chief, celebrate our crews’ statewide wins, and learn how your input can help shape the city’s future. Catch it all in this update from our City Manager.

¿Necesita Servicios Notariales?

Visite la oficina de la ciudad en el Centro Cívico de Glendale ubicado en

5750 W Glenn Drive

Glendale, AZ 85301

Este servicio es completamente GRATUITO para los residentes de Glendale.

Horas de Operación

De lunes a viernes

De 8 a.m. a 5 p.m.

(Los horarios pueden variar por los días festivos)

Si tiene alguna pregunta, llame al 623-930-2030