Basin Neighborhood Park is a public park in the City of Lathrop without a formal name.

But that’s no longer the case.

Last week, the Lathrop City Council approved to formally name and recognize the green belt space located on the northeast corner of Westfield Drive and West Lathrop Road as Sonny Dhaliwal Park.

No discussion was necessary at the Dec. 8 monthly session.

For the past year, Dhaliwal has represented District 3 for the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors. Prior to that, he served Lathrop with “integrity, dedication, and distinction for more than 21 years,” according to the naming of the park resolution.

During that span, Dhaliwal served 12 unprecedented years as mayor, six years on the City Council, and three as a Planning Commissioner.

Local leaders say the naming of the park in his honor will help provide a lasting and meaningful tribute to his legacy and commitment of the City of Lathrop.

The naming of Sonny Dhaliwal Park also falls in line with the city historically recognizing individuals who have made substantial contributions to the growth, identity, and the well-being of the community.

As for financial impact, the cost of naming the Basin Neighborhood Park in honor of Dhaliwal is about $10,150. Included would be the park sign, park monument plaque, and the grand opening celebration and ribbon-cutting event.