Park Dedication Ceremony Honors Late Commissioner Val M. Steele

On Sunday, March 24, an estimated 200 people were on hand for the renaming of Coconut Point Park south of Melbourne Beach in honor of late County Commissioner Val M. Steele, brother of District 5 Commissioner and Commission Chair Jason Steele. Those in attendance included  current and former County commissioners, current and former state political figures, the county manager, various County department heads and friends and relatives of the Steele family. Val Steele served as County commissioner representing District 3 from 1970 to 1984. The event also included dedication of a plaque memorializing the former commissioner.

The plaque In Memory of Val M. Steele (1941-2020) reads:

This park commemorates Val M. Steele’s lifelong dedication to public service and community improvement. Steele represented Melbourne Beach as Councilman, Mayor and County Commissioner and was on the St. John’s River Water Management Governing Board. 

His impactful contributions include relocating the main courthouse to Viera and founding Spessard Holland Golf Course. He was also instrumental in helping establish the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. Steele made significant marks in the real estate, banking, and hospital sectors, and was founder of several local organizations.

Steele’s enduring legacy is his commitment to preserving our natural heritage and fostering community growth. This park, a serene oasis of natural beauty, stands as tribute to his visionary leadership. We honor Val M. Steele for unwavering dedication to community service and for the indelible impact he has left on Brevard County.