It is long overdue that Burbank requires public input and approval on all non-emergency street closures.

Who is impacted?
The current ordinance in Article 23 (BMC 6-1-2301) significantly affects the residents and local businesses within the proximity of a proposed street closure for the purpose of holding celebrations, parades, special events and other activities. Residents often face issues like limited parking, increased noise, and disrupted daily routines, while businesses face the risk of reduced customer traffic and sales. Both parties are deeply impacted, yet they currently have no say in whether a street closure is approved. In most cases, the affected businesses and residents are never consulted before the City approves a street closure for such events.

What is at stake?
The core of the issue is the democratic involvement of the community in decisions that directly impact them. If the ordinance remains unamended, residents and businesses will continue to bear the brunt of unilateral decisions that could adversely affect their quality of life and economic well-being. On the flip side, amending the ordinance would ensure that the community has a voice in matters that concern them, thereby fostering a more inclusive and democratic decision-making process.

Why is now the time to act?
Recent events have heightened the community's awareness of the shortcomings of the current ordinance. Multiple street closures have taken place without any prior consultation with the people most affected. The urgency is palpable, as any delay in amending this ordinance means another event could be approved without community input. Now is the time for the City Council to act and ensure that the voices of its citizens are heard and respected.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for a more democratic process that empowers the community to have a say in decisions that directly affect their lives. Let us make our voices heard and effect change now.