By Nicole MOORE

On Thursday’s morning meeting of the Montrose Shopping Park Assn. talk turned to discussing ways to improve the shopping village.

Jackie Barlow, Economic Development coordinator for the City of Glendale, reviewed the possibility of developers being interested in the City Bank site in the 2400 block of Honolulu Avenue. She also mentioned the prospect of the Rocky Cola Café site, which has been vacant since 2012, being sublet in the near future. Additionally, Barlow said there was talk of eliminating bike lanes on Ocean View Boulevard.

Joe Allen of the Glendale Police Dept. shared there has been an increase in the number of petty thefts and residential burglaries in the La Crescenta-La Cañada areas. In recent weeks, baseball equipment was stolen from Crescenta Valley High School, which will result in an expensive replacement issue for the team.

“It’s just the sign of the times [that] property and theft crimes are on the rise,” said Allen.

The Glendale PD also recently launched its Mental Health Unit. The members of the Mental Health Unit evaluate individuals who may be suicidal, self-medicating or are hoarders. These individuals will either be reported to the Glendale Police Dept. or are encountered during a patrol.

“We are just trying to get them proper help,” said Allen.

Mike Wiederkehr, assistant Integrated Waste administrator at the City of Glendale, paid a visit to the MSPA to bid farewell to its members. Wiederkehr has worked with the City of Glendale for 30 years and is moving back to his home state of Arkansas this month.

“It’s bittersweet to be here … It has been such a pleasure to work with you guys the last five years,” said Wiederkehr. “I will deeply miss you. Thank you for your kindness and graciousness.”

“We appreciate you a lot, you’ve been with us through thick and thin. You’ve been a true advocate and true friend for us,” replied Andre Ordubegian, president of the MSPA, as he handed Wiederkehr a certificate of appreciation.  

The MSPA board also decided to keep the trees in the Montrose Village lit through the year. However, the icicle lights and bush lights will be reserved for the holiday season. Additionally, members of the MSPA would like to remind Montrose Shopping Park shoppers to use scrip that was given out during Wine Walk at participating stores and restaurants. The scrip can be used like money at participating businesses.

The next MSPA meeting will be held on July 6 at 8 a.m. The meeting, open to the public, will take place at Glendale Community College PDC, 2340 Honolulu Ave. in Montrose.

  Nicole MOORE