The Warren City Council has approved a new ordinance establishing a formal process for naming and dedicating municipally owned properties and facilities, following months of discussion sparked by public interest in renaming the Third Avenue Bridge.

The ordinance, developed by the Warren Planning Commission, creates a standardized application and review process for future naming requests involving city-owned parks, facilities, structures and infrastructure. Planning Commission members unanimously recommended adoption of the measure during their April meeting after spending months drafting the ordinance.

During Monday’s meeting, city officials said the policy was designed to provide transparency and consistency in handling future requests.

The proposal originated after a public request made during the Nov. 17 council meeting sought the renaming of the Third Avenue Bridge. No formal action was taken at that time, but the discussion prompted city officials to begin developing a permanent framework.

Under the ordinance, naming applications may be submitted by city residents, property owners and community organizations located within the city. Applicants must submit a fee to cover administrative and advertising costs, along with petitions containing at least 100 signatures from Warren residents or property owners supporting the request.

The ordinance also requires applicants to demonstrate a meaningful connection between the proposed name and the city.

“We wanted the petitioner to establish that there is a connection between the request and the city,” said Planning Commission Chair Elizabeth Raible.

Council members debated whether streets and alleyways should be eligible for renaming. Several officials expressed concern that changing long-established street names could create confusion for residents and visitors.

Council member Maurice Cashman proposed an amendment prohibiting the renaming of streets and alleyways while still allowing honorary dedications, such as commemorative signs or plaques.

The amendment ultimately passed unanimously. Under the revised language, streets and alleyways may receive honorary dedications, but their official names cannot be changed.

Raible and other commission members defended the ordinance as a way to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the community while ensuring public input remains central to the process.

“One really nice thing about renaming or dedicating these areas is that we are able to honor people that have served the city,” Raible said.

The ordinance establishes a multi-step review process. The Planning Commission will first review requests, with park-related proposals also requiring input from the Parks, Recreation and Landscape Commission. Public hearings and comment periods will also be required before final consideration by City Council.

Council members also discussed how future modifications to naming dedications could occur. While the ordinance discourages changing previously approved names, officials said the policy still allows future councils to revisit decisions when appropriate.

Following discussion and amendments, the City Council voted unanimously to adopt the ordinance.