Manatee County Park Expansion Named In Honor Of Late Commissioner Felts

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — The Manatee County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the naming of a newly expanded preserve at David J. Crane Park in honor of the late District 1 Commissioner Carol Ann Felts.

Felts, who was elected to represent District 1 in November 2024, was found dead at her Myakka City home on Feb. 24.

The 16-acre expansion of Crane Park will be known as the Carol Ann Felts Preserve at David J. Crane Park, recognizing the commissioner’s lifelong commitment to protecting Manatee County’s natural resources and preserving its rural character, the county said in a news release.

“When Commissioner Felts passed, I wanted to make sure we honored her legacy in a really tangible way,” Commissioner Amanda Ballard said. “Under Carol’s leadership with ELMAC and the Board of County Commissioners, David J. Crane Park was recently expanded. Naming this expansion in her honor ensures that her legacy of conservation and service will live on for generations to come in Myakka City.”

Crane Park was recently expanded by 16 acres, further enhancing public access to green space and natural habitat.

In addition to the preserve naming, the Board also fulfilled another of Commissioner Felts’ longstanding priorities: a motion for the creation of a Rural Lands and Citizens’ Advisory Board. The motion to establish the advisory board was made by Commissioner Ballard and passed unanimously with six votes.

“Carol wanted to recognize the importance of rural lands as part of Manatee County’s historical and economic contribution; provide insights and advisement on issues that affect rural citizens; ensure communication, services and opportunities are provided in an effective manner that supports areas outside urban and suburban boundaries; and involve both large and small landowners in the future planning and preservation of these areas,” Ballard said.

Once the resolution is adopted, the Rural Lands and Citizens’ Advisory Board will provide recommendations to commissioners on issues affecting rural communities, agricultural lands and conservation efforts, ensuring residents have a direct voice in decisions that shape the future of Manatee County’s rural areas.

See Also:

• Manatee County Commissioner Carol Ann Felts Dies At 68
• Carol Ann Felts Runs For Manatee County Commission District 6 Seat