Riverside council approves ceremonial renaming of Lime Street for Capt. Tim Strack amid public criticism

The Riverside City Council on Jan. 6 unanimously approved a ceremonial renaming of a segment of Lime Street as “Captain Tim Strack Parkway,” a measure proponents said honors the late fire captain’s long service to the city.

Council Member Philip Falcone, who introduced the item, said the renaming does not change mailing addresses and was preceded by outreach to property owners. Falcone urged council to use the ceremonial designation to celebrate Strack’s decades of public service to Riverside fire crews and the broader fire service.

The proposal drew objections during public comment. Jason Hunter, a caller who identified himself as Ward 1 resident, urged the council to reject or delay the measure, saying outreach and committee review were inadequate and raising the appearance of favoritism because of prior political contributions from the firefighters union and recent business licenses awarded to a family member of the honoree. "Public honors must be beyond reproach," Hunter told councilors.

Council Member Mill responded that the process mirrored prior ceremonial renamings and defended the outreach performed, while Council Member Verveille praised Strack’s record and seconded the motion. Mill added, "Tim's legacy will live on long after all of us are gone," and said the council’s vote reflected Strack’s contributions to the city and the profession.

The motion to accept staff's recommendation to proceed with the ceremonial renaming passed unanimously. Councilors noted the distinction between a ceremonial designation and a legal street‑name change that would require address updates.

Next steps: staff will have the city attorney draft the ordinance language and the city manager identify funding and fabrication logistics for ceremonial signage.