Gates' descendants lay claim to park land donated to city of Bradenton

Concerning the Glazier-Gates Park: Certainly a powerful argument to use in court is the deed, which states that if the land ever ceases to be a public street, the property will revert to the descendants of E.F. Gates.

As a direct descendant of E.F. Gates, I claim my right of ownership of the property. My extended family is in agreement that we do not want the park to be destroyed. It is a vital part of the community, particularly for the lower income people who live close to the park. I stand for their rights.

The Rev. E.F. Gates was a Methodist minister who was compassionate and generous. His legacy is reflected in the fact that there has been a Methodist minister in the family for six generations. I represent generation number five.

Please either stop the development plan, or give the land back to us.

Thanks to Kim Youngshepherd and all those who are fighting on our behalf.

Rev. Mark Smiley

Cockeysville, Md.

This story was originally published October 18, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Gates' descendants lay claim to park land donated to city of Bradenton ."