Issues: Open Space, Parks & Youth Sports
As a father of two teenage girls, I know parks and youth sports help keep kids healthier, active, and off screens. I support expanding parks, playgrounds, and recreation opportunities — especially in South Glendale. With 8 years on Glendale’s CDBG Commission, I’ve helped approve and direct millions of dollars toward park and community improvements, including recent upgrades at Pacific Park. I’ll continue fighting for more open space, stronger youth programs, and real results for Glendale families.
Parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities are not luxuries — they are essential to a healthy, safe, and connected community. They give kids a place to play, keep youth active and engaged, support families, and strengthen neighborhoods.
Too many areas of Glendale — especially South Glendale — lack enough open space and modern recreational facilities. Every child, regardless of neighborhood, deserves safe places to play, build confidence, learn teamwork, and stay active.
Healthy kids. Strong neighborhoods. A better Glendale.
Core Principle: Access to parks and recreation should not depend on where you live. Every neighborhood deserves quality open space.
Let’s get Ronnie elected.
Why I’m Prepared to Lead on Parks and Recreation
As a father, I’ve seen firsthand how important youth sports and recreation are to a child’s growth. When kids have access to safe parks, teams, and facilities, they build healthier habits and spend less time on electronics and screens — and more time being active and connected to their community.
In addition, for the past 8 years, I have served as a Glendale Commissioner on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Committee. In that role, I have helped approve and direct millions of dollars toward improving Glendale’s parks and community facilities — including recent upgrades at Pacific Park, along with many other projects across the city.
That experience matters because it means I understand how park improvements actually happen: how to secure funding, how to prioritize projects, and how to deliver results responsibly.
Real Results, Not Just Promises
8 years on the CDBG Commission • Millions funded for parks & community improvements • Pacific Park and more
My Plan to Strengthen Parks, Open Space & Youth Sports in Glendale
My Plan to Strengthen Parks, Open Space & Youth Sports in Glendale
1) Prioritize South Glendale for New and Improved Open Space
South Glendale needs more investment in open space and recreational opportunities.
I will advocate for:
1) Identifying underused or city-owned land for new parks or pocket parks
2) Expanding and upgrading playgrounds in South Glendale neighborhoods
3) Ensuring future park investments are distributed more fairly across the city
Goal: Close the open-space gap and invest where the need is greatest.
2) Improve and Modernize Existing Parks and Playgrounds
Many parks and playgrounds can be improved to better serve families.
I will support:
1) Safer, modern playground equipment
2 )Better lighting, seating, and shade
3) Cleaner, well-maintained facilities and restrooms
4) Inclusive design so children of all abilities can participate
Goal: Parks that are safe, welcoming, and built for families.
3) Expand Youth Sports and Recreation Programs
Sports and recreation help kids stay healthy, focused, and connected.
I will push for:
1) More youth sports programs and after-school activities
3) Better access to fields, courts, and gyms
3) Partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and local leagues
4) Fair access to facilities across all Glendale neighborhoods
Goal: Give every child the chance to participate, grow, and succeed.
4) Plan Sports Facilities That Work for the Community
Facilities should be an asset — not a burden.
I will support planning that:
1) Minimizes traffic and parking impacts on nearby neighborhoods
2) Uses smart scheduling and shared-use models
3) Keeps facilities accessible, safe, and affordable for families
Goal: Recreation that benefits the community without disrupting it.
5) Use Grants and Partnerships to Improve Parks Without Raising Taxes
Parks can be improved without raising taxes when the City works smart and pursues outside funding.
I will advocate for:
1) Pursuing state, federal, and regional park grants
2) Partnering with nonprofits and community organizations
3) Using public-private partnerships where appropriate
4) Ensuring funds are used efficiently and transparently
Goal: Expand recreation opportunities while protecting taxpayers.
What This Plan Will NOT Do
Ignore South Glendale
Leave parks underfunded or neglected
Overcrowd neighborhoods with poor planning
Raise taxes without exploring funding options first
My Commitment
Glendale’s kids deserve more than screens and parking lots — they deserve parks, playgrounds, and places to play.
I will fight for:
• More open space and better parks
• Strong investment in South Glendale
• Expanded youth sports and recreation
• Safe, accessible facilities for all families
• Fair distribution of resources across the city
Invest in kids. Strengthen neighborhoods. Build a healthier Glendale.