Torrance council sends Columbia Park renaming proposal to Parks and Rec for public input

The Torrance City Council voted to refer a proposal to rename Columbia Park to the Parks and Recreation Commission for additional public comment and outreach.

Council members debated whether to rename the city’s largest park to honor a Torrance native and World War II veteran who has been put forward by an ad hoc naming committee. The council first considered a motion to rename Columbia Park outright; that motion failed, with Mayor George Chen and Council Member Metucci voting yes and other members opposed. After further discussion, the council approved an alternate motion to send the matter to the Parks and Recreation Commission and direct city staff to use the city’s communication channels to solicit broader community input; the clerk recorded that the motion carried with Council Member Metucci voting no and Council Member Kaji absent.

The proposal before council grew from an April application asking the city to rename Columbia Park to honor the veteran, described in committee materials as a Torrance native who served in World War II and was recognized for battlefield valor. City staff recapped the naming policy the council uses (Resolution 2008-81) and noted the application meets the guideline that a honoree have served the United States, California or Torrance “in an exceptional manner.” The staff presentation summarized Columbia Park’s features and history: it spans about 52 acres at 4045 West 190th Street and Prairie Avenue, includes lighted soccer fields used by AYSO, a 1.33-mile walking path, a community garden program, and is the future site of a World War II Camp Wall Monument intended to honor Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II.

A local veteran who spoke in support told the council, “I support this, wholeheartedly,” and urged recognition of the fallen servicemember. Council members who favored sending the item to Parks and Rec said the referral would provide more time and a transparent process for residents to weigh in; others said the ad hoc committee meeting was public and that the council’s proceedings are themselves transparent. Councilwoman Kalani specifically urged a referral so the community — including family members present — could provide input at times accessible to working residents.

Staff said several capital improvements at Columbia Park are planned over the next three years (restroom and picnic shelter renovations, a dog park, turf sports field work and replacement of the walking path). The matter will return to the council after the Parks and Recreation Commission completes its public outreach and recommendation.

The council’s action preserves the naming committee’s record but creates a formal public-comment pathway. The Parks and Recreation Commission will consider community feedback and return a recommendation to the council for a final decision.