Resident seeks bench and tree dedication for husband at Buttonwood; board backs recommendation

Angela Natho told the board she and her husband walked Buttonwood Park for years and that a bench or tree dedication there would let her continue to visit and reflect as she ages.

"My name is Angela Natho. I live at 38 Buttonwood Street," Natho said, recalling how her husband ran marathons, later walked the park every day and picked up trash. She said community members and the Friends of Buttonwood helped with the application and that park staff explained placement must match park needs rather than be placed arbitrarily.

Natho suggested locations near Fuller Parkway or in front of the greenhouse, or adjacent to the Italian American Memorial at Buttonwood and Lake Street. Councilor Lopes urged locating the bench as close as possible to allow access for Natho as she gets older. The board moved to grant the application and voted in favor; the chair said the recommendation will be placed on the City Council agenda for Sept. 24 for final approval.

Staff introduced the item as a memorial bench and tree dedication program application in memory of Carl Natal. The board’s approval at the meeting is a recommendation; final placement and installation will follow the City Council decision and subsequent staff coordination with the applicant.