Council considers naming 5701 Landover Road park; proposal honors former Chief Gilbert Jones

Council resumed discussion of item 5: the potential naming of the park at 5701 Landover Road, a site restored by volunteers and town staff. Council Member Wade recommended naming the park for the late Gilbert Jones, describing him as the town’s first African American chief and a resident of the neighborhood. Wade noted the two‑year anniversary of Jones’s passing in June 2024 (the transcript reference placed that anniversary near June) and said naming the park would recognize both his service as chief and his status as a long‑time resident.

Vice Mayor and other council members asked what level of research the town performs before naming town facilities and suggested a consistent, documented process. The mayor asked the town administrator to conduct a “deep dive” into Chief Jones’s record and to propose an approach for a plaque and dedication ceremony. Several residents spoke in favor of Chief Jones and others urged considering women and other under‑recognized community leaders for future namings; one commenter suggested former council member Marverly Nettles Simpson for consideration.

Council agreed to a public process for the plaque and to place the naming for formal approval on a June or July town meeting agenda, with the town administrator tasked to report back on research and potential dedication timing.

Ending: The council tentatively scheduled a summer vote and directed staff to research the nominee’s background and to design a public plaque process.