City Council proposes naming Riverside Park field after community leader Neil Draper

In a recent Salt Lake City Council Work Session held on June 10, 2025, council members discussed several important topics, including the adoption of budget motion sheets for the Local Business Assistance (LBA) and Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). These motion sheets, which are simpler than those used in formal meetings, will be provided to council members in advance, facilitating a smoother budget adoption process. Notably, the council clarified that tax rates for the CRA and LBA will not be set, and there are no related ordinances concerning memorandums of understanding or parking.

One of the most significant discussions during the meeting was the proposal to name the Northeast Baseball Field at Riverside Park as the Neil Draper Field. This proposal honors Neil Draper, a dedicated community member and business owner who passed away earlier this year. Draper was known for his commitment to Rose Park Baseball, which has positively impacted many residents in the area. The initiative aligns with the goals outlined in the 2022 Public Lands Master Plan, which emphasizes renaming parks and major assets to reflect community interests and foster a sense of ownership among residents.

The meeting concluded with no further questions, and the council plans to revisit some agenda items in future sessions. The discussions highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to engage with the community and enhance public spaces, reflecting a commitment to local interests and values. As the council moves forward, the naming of the baseball field stands as a testament to the impact of community members like Draper, reinforcing the importance of local contributions to public life.