There’s a notice posted on the Glendale Masonic Temple at 234 S. Brand Boulevard. The text says that the City of Glendale is considering an amendment to its Advertising Signage Overlay Zone (ASOZ) which would expand the zone’s boundaries. It gives no further details about the scope of the expansion, or what kind of outdoor advertising is being contemplated.

But I’d be willing to bet that the City of Glendale wants to let advertisers install digital billboards, possibly on the side of the Masonic Temple. You can already find digital signage at the Americana mall on the south side of Brand. Outdoor ad companies are lobbying cities all over the US to open up to bigger and more invasive digital signage. It’s a hugely profitable business that’s growing rapidly.

Personally, I’m against outdoor digital advertising for a few reasons. One reason is that I see it as urban blight. But more importantly, I’m concerned about the way digital advertisers are collecting and sharing cell phone data. There are huge privacy risks here, and most city officials are completely oblivious.

A public hearing is scheduled later this month. If you’re interested in attending, here’s the info….

DATE: Wednesday, November 19, 2025

TIME: 5:00 PM

LOCATION: 633 E. Broadway (MSB), #105, Glendale, 91206

You can also contact Roger Kiesel, of the Glendale Community Development Department, at 818 937-8152.

The Glendale Masonic Temple was dedicated in 1929 and served as a meeting place for different Masonic Lodges into the 50s. It was designed by Arthur Lindley, who also designed the nearby Alex Theatre. Rick Caruso’s company bought the building about a decade ago and refurbished it, making some changes to the design. The building is a Glendale Historical Landmark and also on the National Register of Historic Places.