A look around Burbank

Today as I drove to work I noticed some very high profile signs indicating space available. To the causal observer it looks like Burbank is losing all its businesses. Circuit City, Romano's Macaroni Grill, Von’s on San Fernando, Mervyns and other have closed or gone out of business.

But according to the Burbank Chamber of Commerce the vacancy rate in Burbank dropped from 5.2% to 4.1% in 3rd quarter of last year. Kaiser Permanente is moving more than 1,000 employees to Burbank. A health Food type store called Henry's is moving into the old Von's on San Fernando and more anoucements are on the way. This all sounds great to for Burbank even in the economic climate.

Dr. Bowman our retiring Burbank Schools Superintendent indicated that Burbank schools are actually increasing enrollment over the past few years. He knows of no other area that can boast such an accomplishment. He indicated it is a testament to our great community and great schools. Not to mention that every Realtor in Burbank extols the virtues of our independent schools, police and fire and water and power.

Sure we will have budget concerns for our city and our schools but Burbank has prepared for the rainy day. So the pain will be much less here in Burbank than in other areas surrounding us.

It seems to me all is just fine in Burbank