The Norwalk Harbor Management Commission voted Oct. 22 to endorse a recommendation that the rebuilt East Marina at Veterans Park carry the name of long‑time commissioner Tony Mobilia, setting up a transmittal to the mayor and other municipal bodies for final action.

Tony Mobilia served multiple terms on the Harbor Commission and worked on dredging and other harbor issues, public commenter Diane Loracella told the commission during public comment: "Tony...was a champion of...dredging our harbor," she said, and suggested a plaque explaining his service. Discussion later in the meeting widened to whether a single‑person naming fits within the park’s intent to honor all veterans.

Commissioner Jeff Mangels, who was not present for the meeting but had circulated written comments, said he preferred a collective name — such as Norwalk Veterans Marina — to preserve the park's original purpose of honoring all who served. In a submitted statement he wrote that a plaque could be used to honor an individual while keeping the marina’s official name inclusive.

Supporters of naming the marina after Mobilia argued that a dedication would recognize his years of service to harbor issues and local projects. Opponents said the park and marina historically honor all veterans and warned that naming a park asset after an individual can raise objections in the community.

Outcome: the commission voted to endorse the recommendation. The vote outcome recorded in the meeting was 3 in favor, 2 opposed and 1 abstention. Commissioners asked staff to forward the commission’s letter to the mayor and the relevant municipal committees; the mayor indicated preliminary support for moving the item to parks and the common council.

Ending: The commission’s endorsement is a nonbinding municipal recommendation; final naming authority typically rests with elected officials and municipal boards. Members said individual residents or organizations may also submit letters of support to the mayor and council.