Meanwhile, Burbank's metal detector got its first real test at the Tuesday, March 25, council meeting. Private security guards from Andrews International and Burbank police officers were on hand, but no one confiscated a gun or knife, even though one of the speakers came on the verbal attack.

During a public comment section ofthe meeting, Burbank resident Edward Guerrero stepped to the podium and trashed the City Council and took some verbal shots at the City Manager and the City Attorney as well.

While he ranted, Guerrero waved his arms and raised his voice. He used words to badger, scold, and some would say insult those officials he felt had fallen short in their responsibilities and that wasOK with Mayor Ramos.

"When weapons are words - I'm ready - bring it on," she said.

Guerrero railed against Burbank City officials for a list of grievances - from allegations of corruption in city government to police brutality. Guerrero cited an incident at a council meeting back in May of 2004 where he claims he was wronged.

City Attorney Dennis Barlow described what happened this way: Guerrero was yelling from the back of the room while a speaker was at the podium. As Guerrero was being escorted to a back corner by the sergeant at arms, a scuffle broke out.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office prosecuted Guerrero for his involvement in the incident. A Superior Court jury found him guilty of disturbing the peace and resisting arrest.

According to court documents, Guerrero was sentenced to 30 days in the Los Angeles County Jail and banned from all Burbank city facilities except the library while on probation for three years.

Also, Guerrero was ordered to pay $100 in restitution and complete anger management classes. Evidentially, Guerrero did not benefit as much from the classes as some had hoped.

On February 12, 2008, Guerrero stood before the City Council and delivered an angry diatribe that really jangled some nerves among the staff.

Earlier that month, a disgruntled contractor/gunman opened fire at the city hall in Kirkwood, Mo., killing two police officers and three city officials.

So Burbank City Manager Mary Alvord put in a quick order for a metal detector. Guerrero was not the only reason for the decision - but he was definitely the catalyst that set it into motion.

At the March 25 meeting, Alvord says there was "much less tension" among the staff and the council when Guerrero delivered his stinging indictment. Alvord believes the metal detector made the difference.

Mayor Ramos agreed, saying, "everyone felt secure" and therefore, could concentrate on Guerrero's complaints and not worry about him packing anything more than a hot temper.

In general, Burbank residents are known to speak their minds and to do so strongly at times. Mayor Ramos wants city residents to continue to come before the council and speak out passionately about what is bugging them.

It looks like the metal detector is helping protect that privilege - while providing city officials, staff, and the public with an extra measure of security.