Costa Mesa will rename its Civic Center Park after the longest-serving police chief in the city’s history.
City council voted March 16 to change the 111 Fair Dr. green space’s moniker to Neth Park in recognition of retired Costa Mesa Police Chief Roger Neth.
The motion also authorized the city manager to appropriate the necessary funds to purchase and install park signage.
A resident of Costa Mesa since 1936, Neth was one of three police officers out of more than 150 applicants hired in 1953 after the city was incorporated and the police department was established.
During his tenure with the department. Neth quickly rose through the ranks. He was promoted to sergeant in 1954, lieutenant in 1956, and captain in 1959.
He became the city’s top cop in 1964, and held the position until 1986, making Neth the longest tenured police chief in department history.
