The Tracy City Council on Dec. 2 voted to name the lobby of City Hall in honor of former Mayor Dr. Nancy D. Young, following hours of public testimony and council debate.

Supporters filled the chambers and called in to describe Young’s long involvement in city programs, youth mentorship and donations to the City Hall leadership wall. Gwendolyn Stewart, speaking for the Tracy African American Association, told the council Young “humbled herself” and “stood here for us because she knew that our voices mattered.” Several student speakers and family members echoed that view, saying Young helped place young people into internships and community programs.

Opponents — including online commenters and in‑person speakers — urged a narrower recognition, such as a plaque, or cited prior conduct they said was inconsistent with a full lobby naming. One online commenter said the objections were not “hate” but brought up instances of Young allegedly speaking in ways some residents found disrespectful during her terms.

Councilmembers debated whether the full lobby met the newly adopted naming policy’s threshold for permanent civic recognition. Councilmember Evans said she could not "support the entire lobby. It's the people's house," but added she would support placing Young's name on the leadership wall. After discussion and motions, the council approved the naming on a 3–2 roll call (Mayor Pro Tem Abercrombie: Yes; Councilmember Nygaard: Yes; Councilmember Rodoya/Daillia: No; Councilmember Evans: No; Mayor Areola: Yes).

The motion directs staff to implement the naming consistent with the amended Council Policy D‑2. Staff will return with final wording, signage options and any costs related to monument or wall treatment.

The action follows a newly revised naming policy adopted earlier in the meeting that clarifies naming procedures for rooms, fields and portions of public buildings.