In a decision at the July 17, 2023, City Council meeting, the Manvel City Council unanimously voted to honor three prominent individuals who made significant contributions to the city. Delores Martin, former Mayor of Manvel, Buddy Williams, a former council member, and Larry and Sharon Akery, esteemed community members, will have parks and a lake dedicated to them.
The Delores Martin Park, a sprawling 108-acre park, formerly known as the Sand Pit, will be dedicated to the honorable Delores Martin. Situated near the intersection of Del Bello Road and Croix Road, this park will be a symbol of her tireless efforts to uplift and transform Manvel. Delores Martin, who served as the Mayor of Manvel from 2001-2017, spearheaded initiatives that contributed to the city's growth and progress.
Buddy Williams, a respected council member who served on City Council from 1992-1994 and then again from 2005-2011, will have a 22-acre greenspace named Buddy Williams Park. Buddy Williams Park is located at the end of Inspiration Way in the Meridiana Subdivision, near the future site of Barbara Bennett Elementary. This park will serve as a testament to Buddy William's dedication to enhancing the quality of life in Manvel and his unwavering love for the community. Buddy Williams passed away in 2014.
Furthermore, in recognition of the remarkable contributions of Larry and Sharon Akery, the Manvel City Council has decided to rename the 117-acre Manvel Drainage Pond as Akery Lake. Currently under construction along Jordan Road between Peters Road and Masters Road, Akery Lake will stand as a tribute to the Akerys’ invaluable service and commitment to the betterment of the city. Notably, Larry Akery, a current City of Manvel councilmember, played a pivotal role in realizing this significant project.
Mayor Dan Davis expressed his gratitude saying, "We are thrilled to honor these exceptional individuals whose tireless efforts and devotion to serving the City of Manvel have left an indelible mark on the community. As we head into our bright future, it is important that we remember the past and honor those who have brought us to where we are today.”
City Council had the great honor of hosting Delores Martin, Larry Akery, and Buddy Williams' daughter Sharyn Davis, granddaughter Crystal Moore, sister Cheryl Tardiff, and cousin Linda Hardy at the official dedication ceremony of these parks on August 21, 2023.
The City of Manvel wishes to express its profound appreciation for these individuals and their contributions to the city.
Photo of Larry Akery with City Council
Photo of Delores Martin with City Council
Photo of Buddy Williams Family with City Council.