About Glendale POA

The Early Years: Joint Representation (1923)

The first formal collective organization for Glendale’s public safety personnel was the Glendale Policeman’s and Fireman’s Association, founded in January 1923. At the time, the department was expanding rapidly and was largely staffed by ex-servicemen and Marines. Detective Sgt. W. J. Royal served as the association’s first president.

This joint organization represented both police and fire personnel during an era when the two functions had only been legally separated for about seven years.

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The Birth of GPORA (1924)

In September 1924, the joint association dissolved as the police and fire departments chose to form independent groups. This led to the creation of the Glendale Police Officers Relief Association (GPORA) — the first organization dedicated exclusively to Glendale police officers.

In an era before municipal benefit packages, GPORA was essential to officer welfare:

• Essential Benefits: The association’s relief funds provided the only form of sick leave, workers’ compensation, or death benefits available to Glendale officers.
• Dues and Coverage (1927): For just $1.00 per month, officers received:
  
  • $3.00 per day disability benefit (up to 12 weeks)
  • $50 hospitalization benefit
  • $200 death benefit ($100 payable to a spouse)

GPORA served as both a financial safety net and a symbol of solidarity among officers.

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GPORA and the Community (1940–1963)

Beyond internal support, GPORA became a cornerstone of Glendale’s civic life through youth engagement and public outreach.

The Glendale Police Boys Band

On October 30, 1940, GPORA assumed sponsorship of the “Official Youth Band of Glendale,” which became known as the Glendale Police Boys Band.

• Public Relations Impact: The band was a deliberate effort to reshape public perception of law enforcement — shifting from a purely enforcement role to one of partnership and mentorship.
• Civic Success: Under GPORA sponsorship, the band achieved regional acclaim, performing multiple times at the Rose Bowl and hosting annual benefit performances at the Glendale High School auditorium featuring Hollywood personalities.
• GPORA’s sponsorship continued until approximately 1962–1963.

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Evolution into the GPOA

Over time, the organization transitioned from a “Relief Association” focused primarily on mutual aid into the Glendale Police Officers Association (GPOA) — a modern labor organization representing officers in professional matters while maintaining a strong philanthropic presence.

Leadership Milestones

• Sergeant Louis “Louie” Guzman served as president in 1954.
• Bill Shannon led the association in 1977 during a period of departmental modernization.

In January 1977, the association published the first issue of the GPOA magazine, marking a new era of structured communication and professional identity.

Legacy of Giving

In 1978, following the tragic death of motor officer Bob Bartl, the GPOA helped co-sponsor the Bob Bartl Memorial Scholarship Award. The scholarship has since provided educational funding for dozens of students at Glendale High School — reinforcing the association’s long-standing commitment to youth and education.

The GPOA Today

Today, the Glendale Police Officers Association (GPOA) represents approximately 260 sworn police officers.

The current Board of Directors includes:

• Sgt. Michael Wenz
• Sgt. Chris Ayad
• Sgt. Chris Krivak
• Agent Ernesto Torres
• Agent Armando Montalvo
• Agent Mike Mercado
• Sgt. Artin Melik
• Officer Eric Megs
• Officer Matt Stafford

The GPOA is a member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 43.

Community Commitment and Philanthropy

The GPOA continues its tradition of service through meaningful community engagement and charitable initiatives.

Cops for Kids

The association’s most notable philanthropic initiative is Cops for Kids, a registered nonprofit program that:

• Delivers Christmas trees along with thousands of toys during the holidays
• Adopts families in need
• Provides clothing, food, and essential items to underprivileged, hospitalized, or at-risk children
• Contributes to local schools throughout the year

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Community Events & Outreach

The GPOA organizes charity golf tournaments, raffles, and community events that strengthen relationships between officers and Glendale residents.

Charitable & Regional Support

The association provides financial and volunteer support to local, regional, and national organizations, including:

• Special Olympics
• American Cancer Society (including Relay for Life events)