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Atlantic Beach commission approves naming Marvin’s Garden 'Ashby Park' in 4–1 vote
Summary
The commission adopted Resolution 24‑44 to rename the small park at 1609 Coquina Place 'Eleanor and Garnet Ashby Memorial Park' (signage: Ashby Park) after public testimony and Arts, Recreation and Culture Committee recommendation; vote was 4‑1.
After public comment from neighbors and a recommendation from the Arts, Recreation and Culture Committee, the Atlantic Beach City Commission voted to adopt Resolution 24‑44 to rename the small park at 1609 Coquina Place for Eleanor and Garnet Ashby.
Kevin Hoagencamp, deputy city manager, summarized the policy the commission adopted in May to guide renaming requests and said the committee reviewed and approved the Ashby request on July 9. Multiple residents and two committee members spoke in favor during the public comment period; Lisa Goodrich, chair of the Arts, Recreation and Culture Committee, told the commission the committee had voted unanimously to recommend the name.
Commission discussion acknowledged that several parks in the city had been informally named and noted cost considerations for signage. Commissioner Bold voiced concern about changing familiar park names and about cost; Commissioner Waters and others said the Ashbys had a long record of community service and deserved the recognition. The motion carried 4‑1.
Next steps: the resolution provides an effective date and staff will arrange for signage that shortens the name to 'Ashby Park' for display, per the resolution language.
