“I appreciate what our local governments are doing well. And I also know when they’re not doing as well, and I will say that in this part of the state we’ve had some great partners to move the state forward,” DeSantis said in remarks that also touched on education, the economy, keeping Florida open during the COVID-19 pandemic, taxes, the press and the state’s efforts to get people out of Israel.
The park name, approved by the county commission in a 4-3 vote last year, was the result of a contest that initially drew a variety of suggestions, including Joan of Park and South Park of Manatee, before local Republican Party members put forward the governor’s name.
With the new name —- Governor Ron DeSantis Park —- came nearly $3 million in upgrades that include two dog parks, pickleball courts and a fitness trail.
This article appears in Oct 19-25, 2023.