May 9th, 2025

If you have any concerns that you'd like to talk with me about, please email me at LBaldenegro@GLENDALEAZ.com, or you can contact me by phone at: (623) 930-2244

Councilmember Baldenegro will be available to meet Ocotillo District residents at 11am prior to City Council meetings at Pizza Old Roma in downtown Glendale.

For those who aren't available to meet during the day, Councilmember Baldenegro will also be available at Don Juan's in downtown Glendale, for Taco Tuesday after City Council Meetings at approximately 6:30pm-7pm (depending on conclusion of City Council Voting Meeting).

If you have any questions, comments, concerns or would just like to speak in person, please stop by.

To watch this week's Councilmember Message, click here!

Next City Council Meeting: May 13th, 2025

The 2025 Military Induction Ceremony in Glendale, Arizona, took place on May 8, 2025, at the newly renovated Desert Diamond Arena, in the Westgate Entertainment District. This meaningful annual event, hosted by Jerry Weiers, the City of Glendale's Mayor in partnership with the Mayor’s Military Mission, served to formally recognize and honor local high school graduates who have chosen to enlist in various branches of the United States Armed Forces.

The ceremony marked a pivotal moment for these young men and women as they publicly affirmed their decision to serve their country. One of the central highlights of the evening was the administration of the military oath of enlistment, conducted in front of proud families, friends, educators, and members of the community. This solemn pledge represented the recruits' transition from civilian life to military service.

Each inductee was presented with a ceremonial stole and a challenge coin—symbols of honor, commitment, and unity among service members. These keepsakes serve as tangible reminders of their dedication and the community’s support. Distinguished military leaders and city officials delivered inspirational remarks, offering words of encouragement, pride, and gratitude, underscoring the importance of service and patriotism.

The event was free and open to the public, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd. The community’s presence emphasized the collective respect and admiration for the young recruits and their families. This ceremony not only celebrated individual commitment but also reinforced the strong ties between the Glendale community and the armed forces.

The Glendale Civic Center, nestled in the heart of historic downtown Glendale, Arizona, is a vibrant hub for community events, celebrations, and cultural gatherings. Known for its elegant architecture and beautifully landscaped courtyards, the center offers a versatile space perfect for weddings, corporate events, and festivals. Throughout the year, it plays host to a lively mix of happenings, from the charming Glendale Glitters holiday light show to bustling bridal expos and multicultural showcases.

With both indoor ballrooms and scenic outdoor venues, the Glendale Civic Center adds a splash of sophistication and fun to every event it hosts—making it a favorite go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Ready to dance, dine, or discover something new? The Civic Center is where it all comes together! For more information on upcoming events, click here!

Annual Mother’s Day Celebration

Celebrate Mom with a day of shopping, dining, and fun in Historic Downtown Glendale on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, from 10am-4pm. Enjoy pampering gift ideas, sweet treats, make-and-take activities, artist demos, and photo ops throughout the Catlin Court and Old Towne districts.

Don't miss the popular Flower Trail, where moms can collect free carnations at participating shops (while supplies last), and pick up an activity list and map at the Arizona Information Center (5836 W. Palmaire Ave.). The first 100 guests receive a commemorative event sticker.

Also returning is the Charm Trail—purchase a starter bracelet and event charm for $5, then collect additional $2 charms at 30+ local shops. For more information, click here!

Serving your community is a powerful way to make a lasting impact—and in Glendale, Arizona, there are great opportunities to get involved. The city is currently looking for civic-minded residents to fill vacancies on various Boards, Commissions, and Advisory Committees. These volunteer roles help shape key city policies and programs, from parks and public safety to planning and historic preservation.

Joining a board or commission is a chance to share your voice, offer new ideas, and work alongside fellow residents and city leaders. Whether you're looking to get more involved in local government or simply want to give back, your participation matters.

Openings are available for the Ocotillo District residents, click here to view current openings and apply today!

Join us each month in the Historic Catlin Court District of Downtown Glendale (58th Drive & Palmaire) for the Family Fun Festival and Marketplace: a fun-filled evening featuring live music, food trucks, art and craft vendors, vintage cars, and local shopping and dining. Starting April 26, event hours shift to 6–10 p.m., making it the perfect time to enjoy cool evenings and dance under the stars. Admission is free!

Just north of the Old Towne District, Catlin Court offers a charming blend of locally owned boutiques, eateries, and cultural attractions housed in beautifully preserved early- and mid-century bungalows. The area is walkable, shaded, and full of character—making it a welcoming destination for all ages. Free parking is available at the Palmaire Parking Structure (5835 W. Palmaire Ave.) and nearby storefronts. Come experience the heart of Glendale!

Football season is here! Our defending champion Arizona Rattlers kicked off their 2025 season on Sunday, March 30 against in-state rival, the Tucson Sugar Skulls at 3:05 p.m., inside of the newly renovated Desert Diamond Arena.

“I am so excited to be in the stands this Sunday,” said Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers. “It’s remarkable that in year one playing in Glendale, the Rattlers brought home a championship. I know our citizens are just as excited as the players are for this Sunday and the 2025 season.”

Following their move from Phoenix to Glendale, the Rattlers hit the ground running with a season opening win against in-state rival, the Northern Arizona Wranglers. The Rattlers finished the year 14-5, ending with a decisive 53-16 victory over the Massachusetts Pirates in the IFL (Indoor Football League) Championship.

“To finish as strong as they did last season, is a testament to the players, coaches, and ownership,” said Mayor Weiers. Prior to kicking off the 2025 season, Mayor Weiers had the privilege of addressing the team at practice during game week. “I thanked the team for the excitement and fun they brought to our city last year. I may have also told them I expect a title every year,” said Mayor Weiers jokingly.

To learn more about the Rattlers, including their roster, schedule and ticket information, please visit: azrattlers.com. 

May is National Water Safety Month—a timely reminder for residents of Glendale, AZ to stay vigilant as we head into the warmer months. As families begin to enjoy more time at pools, lakes, and water parks, water safety becomes a critical concern. Drowning can occur silently and within seconds, making it one of the leading causes of accidental death for young children. Fortunately, with proper education, supervision, and safety measures, many of these tragedies are preventable. Simple actions like learning CPR, using barriers around pools, and ensuring children are always within arm’s reach can make all the difference.

The City of Glendale is committed to promoting water safety and offers a range of resources and programs to help residents stay safe. Through the Glendale Fire Department and Parks and Recreation, the city provides swim lessons for all ages, CPR training, and public education campaigns aimed at reducing water-related accidents. Additionally, Glendale partners with local organizations to distribute free water safety materials and hosts community events throughout May to raise awareness. By taking advantage of these services, residents can enjoy the season’s water activities with greater confidence and peace of mind.

To learn about the services the City of Glendale offers, click here!

To register for swim lessons, click here!

To watch the Glendale Media Team's Water Safety Public Service Announcement, click here!

Experience Glendale Day at Andretti Karting was a remarkable celebration of community and innovation. The unveiling of Glendale’s new brand marked an exciting step forward, highlighting the city’s growth and forward-thinking vision.

Attendees enjoyed a variety of interactive experiences, including virtual reality games, laser tag, and a 7D motion theater—all while discovering some of the latest attractions Glendale has to offer.

The evening concluded with a breathtaking drone light show that illuminated the night sky, leaving guests in awe. This memorable event not only honored Glendale’s rich heritage but also showcased its ongoing commitment to progress, creativity, and community engagement.

GLENDALE TO HELP PROTECT RESIDENTS IN HOT SUMMER

WITH SEVERAL HEAT RELIEF SITES

Starting May 1st, the City of Glendale opened several centers where residents can cool off, obtain water and access to resources to protect themselves and loved ones from extreme summer temperatures. Glendale is teaming up with the Arizona Faith Network and Phoenix Rescue Mission to provide case managers, as well as transportation for individuals who need transportation to other locations for services, and to operate respite centers at:

• Glendale Mission & Ministry Center, 6242 N. 59th Ave.
• St. John’s Lutheran Church, 7205 N. 51st Ave.
• Individuals will be able to rest, drink water, eat snacks, bring their pets to cool off and obtain assistance from case managers with a variety of services to address their basic needs at the respite centers. The Glendale Mission & Ministry Center will be open from noon to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and St. John’s Lutheran Church’s respite center will be open from noon to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
• St John’s Lutheran Church will not open until May 15.

Anyone who needs an indoor place to cool off and drink water can access these cooling centers in Glendale:

• Foothills Library, 19055 N. 57th Ave.: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays
• Foothills Recreation and Aquatics Center (FRAC), 5600 W. Union Hills Road: 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays
• Glendale Adult Center, 5970 W. Brown St.: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays
• Glendale Community Center, 5401 W. Ocotillo Road: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays
• Heroes Regional Library, 6075 N. 83rd Ave.: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays
• Main Library, 5959 W. Brown St.: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays
• O’Neil Community Center, 6448 W. Missouri Ave.: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays
• Rose Lane Community Center, 5003 W. Marlette Ave.: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays
• Velma Teague Library, 7010 N. 58th Ave.: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays

Anyone may stop by these hydration stations in Glendale to simply grab water:

• Glendale City Courts, 5711 W. Glendale Ave., Building B: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays
• Glendale Elementary School District (GESD) System of Care Center, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays
• Please note that holidays may affect the hours of operation, and many locations will be closed during city holidays.

“The extreme temperatures impact everyone and can be very dangerous,” said Matthew Hess, Deputy Director of the city of Glendale’s Community Services Department. “That’s why our city is providing widespread support around the community to try to reduce heat-related illnesses and deaths.”

In addition, the City of Glendale is pleased to partner again with the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) to support the Heat Relief Network this season. The network is a regional partnership of MAG, cities, nonprofit organizations, faith-based communities and businesses, through which MAG coordinates the release of maps showing water, cooling and donation sites around the Valley to try to prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths among vulnerable individuals.

The three stages of heat illness are heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. According to the department, these are the differences in the three types of illness:

• Heat cramps: Muscle cramps in the abdomen, arms, or legs can occur with strenuous activity and may signal heat exhaustion. If medical help isn’t needed, stop activity, rest in a cool place, and drink clear juice or a sports drink.
• Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include paleness, cramps, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, or fainting. Rest, drink cool non-alcoholic beverages, take a cool shower, and stay in an air-conditioned space.
• Heat Stroke: is the most serious heat-related illness and occurs when the body can't regulate its temperature. Symptoms include a body temperature above 103°F, confusion, dizziness, nausea, a rapid pulse, red and dry skin, headache, and possible unconsciousness. Call for immediate medical help and begin cooling the person right away.

Glendale Community Center

Located in the heart of downtown Glendale at 5401 W. Ocotillo Drive, the Glendale Community Center is a small, vibrant neighborhood hub offering various free community programs. The center caters to all age groups, including youth, teens, adults, and seniors. Programs encompass educational, recreational, and fitness activities, aiming to enhance community engagement and well-being.

Program Highlights: 

Youth Programs: Activities designed to foster learning and social skills.

Teen Programs: Engaging activities that promote personal development and community involvement.

Adult Programs: Educational and recreational activities tailored to adult interests and fitness.

Senior Programs: Programs focused on social interaction, learning, and physical wellness for seniors.

After School Programs: Free, drop-in Afterschool Program for youth ages 6-14 that provides supervised recreational activities, crafts, games, sports, clubs, homework help, and special events. This is a non-licensed program and will run from August 2024 through May 2025, Monday through Friday. Daily meals from St. Mary's Food Bank will be provided to participants and any other youth in the community. Registration required, for more information click here!

Membership:

Enjoy a FREE Membership at the Glendale Community Center! This membership grants you access to a variety of classes and programs for all age groups, including youth, teens, adults, and seniors. By signing up, you'll receive updates on everything happening at the center, including a monthly calendar of classes and events.

For more information or any questions about the programs, click here please call the Glendale Community Center directly at 623-930-4700.

O'Neil Recreation Center

The O'Neil Recreation Center is conveniently located on 67th Avenue and Missouri and offers a variety of free community programs for all ages. Some programs include Stay & Play hours for young families, Virtual Fitness classes and board & card games for adults/seniors, Afterschool and Teen programs, and more! For more information, click here!

Program Highlights: 

Youth Programs: Activities designed to foster learning and social skills.

Teen Programs: Engaging activities that promote personal development and community involvement.

Adult Programs: Educational and recreational activities tailored to adult interests and fitness.

Senior Programs: Programs focused on social interaction, learning, and physical wellness for seniors.

After School Programs: Free, drop-in Afterschool Program for youth ages 6-14 that provides supervised recreational activities, crafts, games, sports, clubs, homework help, and special events. This is a Non-Licensed program and will run from August 2024 through May 2025, Monday through Friday. Daily meals from St. Mary's Food Bank will be provided to participants and any other youth in the community.

Membership:

Enjoy a FREE Membership at the Glendale Community Center! This membership grants you access to a variety of classes and programs for all age groups, including youth, teens, adults, and seniors. By signing up, you'll receive updates on everything happening at the center, including a monthly calendar of classes and events.

For more information or any questions about the programs, click here or call the O'Neil Community Center directly at (623) 640-0893.

We are giving away 2 suite tickets to the Double or Nothing Wresting Event on Sunday, May 25th at the Desert Diamond Arena!

*To enter, you must be a Ocotillo District Resident in Glendale, AZ and must be at least 18 years old. Drawing will be selected at random and will be held next Friday, May 16th at 11am. Winners will be notified via phone call and/or email. Must complete link above to enter. Tickets are non-transferrable, tickets are issued electronically. Tickets are a gift and should not be sold or used for financial gain, taxes and parking are the responsibility of the recipient.

• Streets between Maryland Avenue and Ocotillo Road, west of 69^th Avenue to 71^st Avenue – Slurry Seal application is currently taking place.
• 51^st Avenue, between Camelback Road and Montebello Avenue – Slurry Seal application is currently taking place.
• Missouri Avenue, between 51^st Avenue and 55^th Avenue – Slurry Seal application to begin May 14.
• Rancho Drive, west of 57^th Avenue – Slurry Seal application to take place in Spring 2025. 

If you have any questions or want further information, please get in touch with the 24/7 Project Hotline at 602-532-6250. A map for 2024-2025 Pavement Management Program is now available on the Pavement Management website.

IMPORTANT LINKS (CLICK BELOW!)