MANSFIELD — One of the many benefits to Richland Source members is the ability to sound off on the issues of the day.
Periodically we send out a question seeking feedback on a question. Our aim is to raise the level of conversation in the community, and we need our readers’ help to do exactly that.
We’d like to thank those who chimed in and encourage all members to let their voices be heard.
Last month’s question was: What’s next in downtown Mansfield? What would you like to see bubble up in the natural progression of that section of town? What is something that could draw you to a region oozing with potential?
Here’s what our members had to say:
A grocery store! Nothing says neighborhood like a small grocery store.
Offer fresh fruits and vegetables-address the ‘food deserts’, offer nutritious package dinners in an open outdoor storefront for busy downtown workers. — Sally J. Gesouras
There has been talk for a couple of years about establishing an “Entertainment District” in the downtown area. This district would be a measured geographical area and involve any business in that district that has a liquor license.
The entertainment district would allow for consuming alcoholic beverages outside of the confines of the licensed establishment.
Even though the “district” is designed for entertainment purposes, it would add another aspect to my reception business as it would allow for events to spill over outside of the reception hall onto the sidewalk and even the street with proper closure. I have been downtown for 25 years and every time this question comes up, you can always count on hearing “We need more restaurants!” It’s a great idea, but, it needs to have the support in order to survive. I think that support would be there for an operation that offers some uniqueness like The Phoenix and with above-average food and service. This operation would need someone young and enthusiastic willing to put in the time and resources it take to build a viable operation. Oh to be 40 years younger and know what I know now. — Ed Pickens
I have some thoughts … interesting downtown living spaces are a definite, but I also like the idea of a boutique hotel with some edge, a taco bar, and a mid-ohio museum/hall of fame.
Saw a rendering for a roundabout at the 5-way light that looked kinda cool too. — Cameron Haring
For a more vibrant downtown scene during the day and evening in the warmer months, Mansfield needs to encourage businesses like the restaurants to put tables and chairs on the sidewalks for alfresco dining and relaxation. — Christopher Clarke
How awesome if we could having up-scale apartments downtown with undercover parking facilities. We could think even “bigger” and have a Trader Vic’s! — Barbara Huston
“Downtown needs to improve wayfinding to assist locals and visitors to reach their designations. People should be able to park once and feel comfortable enough to make it around downtown by foot.
“Also, Mansfield needs to improve it’s traffic flow patterns in and out of the downtown business district.” Charles P. Hahn
NEXT QUESTION
Dangerous dogs has been an issue for years in Mansfield, be it pit bulls or other breeds, too. The City of Mansfield and Richland County have struggled with enforcing the ordinances that are on the books. Some argue whether those ordinances have gone too far, while others insist they are toothless.
What is your take on the dog issue in the community? If you have a solution that requires more support for the county dog warden, how would that idea be funded? For those that have lived elsewhere, any ideas from other communities worth investigating by local officials?
If you are a member and would like to sound off on this issue or if you are a reader who is interested in becoming a member and would like to enjoy this and numerous other benefits, contact Jasmine Evans, our membership coordinator, at jasmine@richlandsource.com.
