For over 40 years, Chamlian Armenian School has been an essential institution in our community, providing high-quality education and shaping generations of students. The school has made substantial financial investments in its facilities, including the construction of permanent buildings, infrastructure improvements and renovations – all in reliance on the city’s longstanding recognition of its right to operate at 4444 Lowell Ave. These investments were made in good faith with the understanding that Chamlian’s presence here was not temporary but a permanent fixture in Glendale’s educational landscape.

Under California law, when a property owner or institution has substantially relied on government approvals, made significant financial investments and continuously operated without interruption, it may establish vested rights that protect it from subsequent zoning restrictions or administrative decisions that would otherwise force it to reapply for permission to continue existing.

The City of Glendale has consistently allowed Chamlian to operate at this location for over four decades. Given its long-term operation, reliance on past approvals and substantial investments, Chamlian has a strong legal argument for vested rights – potentially allowing it to continue operating indefinitely without even needing to renew its use variance. The requirement of renewal, and by extension the risk of denial, would be unfair and legally questionable as it would undermine the school’s well-established rights.

Moreover, the school’s continued presence is not detrimental to the public welfare. In fact, it serves a vital public interest, educating students and contributing to Glendale’s cultural and civic life. It would be a grave injustice to allow bureaucratic obstacles or unfounded complaints to threaten the future of an institution that has done so much good for this city.

I commend the Glendale City Council for affirming Chamlian’s vested rights and upholding its perpetual use variance, ensuring that it remains a pillar of education for generations to come.

Alex Khatchaturian
Glendale