Sunnyvale commission recommends Corn Palace Park name for new Delia Court mini‑park

The Sunnyvale Parks and Recreation Commission voted unanimously to recommend that City Council name the new two‑acre mini‑park at 1142 Delia Court “Corn Palace Park” and to attempt to recover the historic Corn Palace sign for use in the new park. The commission’s recommendation was made after a presentation from city recreation staff and a brief discussion among commissioners; there were no public comments on the item.

Jesus Regosa, superintendent for recreation services, told commissioners the site was previously agricultural land owned by the Francia family and that a Corn Palace farm stand operated on the property from 1965 until 2015. Regosa said the city acquired about two acres for a neighborhood park intended to serve residents within roughly a quarter‑mile walking distance. He described planned amenities as a toddler and youth play area with inclusive features, shaded seating, a walking loop, fitness equipment and a small multi‑use lawn, and said staff expects construction to be completed in February or March 2025.

The commission considered names guided by Council Policy 73‑23 on naming and renaming parks and recreation facilities, which prioritizes historical significance, ties to planning districts, and honoring individuals who made significant contributions to the city. Regosa said staff sought input from the Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum, the Heritage Preservation Commission and the Human Relations Commission before presenting a short list to the commission. The Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum recommended “Corn Palace Park”; the Heritage Preservation Commission voted 4‑of‑5 in favor of that name; the Human Relations Commission’s first choice was “Manzanita Park.”

Commissioner Geary asked whether staff had conducted outreach to neighborhood residents. Regosa replied that staff had not performed neighborhood outreach for the name but had followed the naming policy and had consulted the museum and the two commissions noted above.

Commissioner (Chair) Kesting moved that the commission recommend “Corn Palace Park” and pursue recovery of the original Corn Palace sign for incorporation into the new park; Commissioner Geary seconded the motion. In a roll call vote Chair Kesting, Commissioner Geary, Commissioner Vermont, Vice Chair Mason and Commissioner Gitani all voted yes and the motion passed 5‑0. The motion directed staff to attempt to secure the original sign from the Francia family and, if it cannot be recovered, to create a similar sign that reflects the site’s historical significance.

The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for final action under Council Policy 73‑23, which grants the council the authority to name or rename parks.