Boerne council favors hybrid public process to name Northside Community Park; Linda Cornelius cited as potential honoree

City parks staff on May 12 asked the Boerne City Council for guidance on naming the new Northside Community Park. Staff presented four options: a staff‑developed name, community‑only input, council nominations, or a hybrid process combining staff research with public input. The presentation included historical context for the property — including an ice house and prior owners dating back to a state land grant — and potential naming criteria.

Parks presenter Lizette (presented as “Zet” in the agenda) described the land’s history, past owners (including the Presslers), and existing historic features. She noted that a recognition‑based name could honor an individual who significantly advanced local recreation opportunities and identified Linda Cornelius — former director of Boerne Parks and Recreation and an early advocate for the park site — as a person who meets that criteria.

Council discussion favored a hybrid approach. Several council members said community input is appropriate because the park is funded and used by local taxpayers; others preferred geographic names that foreground “Boerne” rather than a person’s name. Mayor Richey and multiple council members suggested staff solicit public feedback, narrow suggestions to a vetted short list, and return to council in June with staff recommendations.

Next steps: staff will prepare a public outreach plan and present a recommended short list at the next council meeting for final consideration.