MANSFIELD – The search is on for downtown Mansfield’s latest live Christmas tree to brighten the square for the holidays.
The city of Mansfield announced on Thursday that the city is once again looking for a live tree to place on display at Richland Carrousel Park, located in the heart of downtown Mansfield. According to Mansfield Mayor Tim Theaker, this is the city’s sixth year installing a Christmas tree downtown.
“It’s a tradition that celebrates camaraderie and brings people downtown, and it’s something I really look forward to and I think a lot of people look forward to,” Theaker said.
Downtown Mansfield’s holiday tree is a Mansfield resident itself. Theaker said the city always searches for a tree to cut down within Mansfield’s city limits, and each year receives anywhere from eight to 14 individuals volunteering their tree.
“We go out and look at the trees and try to determine which tree best fits the area down there,” Theaker said. “Some are very large and some are smaller, and it also has to be a certain height.”
The city requests that the evergreen be at least 30 ft. in height. In order for the city to successfully cut and remove the tree, it must be accessible to the handling of equipment. Upon removal of the tree, the City Street Department will grind the stump and repair any damage caused to the lawn.
“We’ve got a lot of people that help out and donate,” Theaker said. “Shelly Smith & Sons Ltd. has donated their crane to put the tree in place every year.”
After the tree’s installation, the city will decorate the tree for the holidays and host a lighting ceremony – usually with the attendance of Santa Claus himself.
“It’s an event that kicks off the holiday season for Christmas,” Theaker said.
If you have an evergreen tree you would like to donate please contact the Mansfield Street Department at 419-755-9803.
