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Council to consider naming park for Willie J. Mitchell and honorary WP Johnson Way
Summary
Councilman Robertson proposed renaming Jones Park to Willie J. Mitchell Park and erecting honorary WP Johnson Way signs near Greater First Baptist Church; both items were placed on next Tuesday’s regular meeting agenda after family notification and cost questions were discussed.
Councilman Robertson asked the council to place two community recognition items on the regular meeting agenda: renaming Jones Park to honor Willie J. Mitchell and dedicating a portion of Hill Street as WP Johnson Way in honor of Reverend W.P. Johnson.
On the park renaming, Robertson recounted Mitchell’s long-term volunteer service: “Mister Willie J Mitchell spent hours and hours at that park. He was instrumental in keeping the park up. He…trained, coached kids…he spent money out of his pocket to buy gloves and shoes and uniforms,” and said family members had been notified and did not object.
On the street dedication, Robertson said the proposal would not change mailing addresses; it would be an honorary designation with signage near Greater First Baptist Church. He asked staff to adjust map limits so the signage covers the full block from Fifth Avenue to Sixth Avenue rather than a partial stretch.
Council discussed sign placement and probable costs; Robertson said he would secure a quote and offered to use discretionary funds if necessary. Both items were agreed to “be on the agenda for Tuesday” without objection.
Ending: Both the park-renaming and street-signage proposals will be considered on the council’s regular meeting agenda next Tuesday.
