MANSFIELD — Richland County commissioners on Tuesday got an update — and a request for financial assistance — with ongoing improvement/construction efforts at the Ohio Bird Sanctuary, Richland County Fairgrounds and a “community park for all” at Sterkel Park.
Chris Harris of CHarris Consulting, who works with local non-profit organizations and other groups, asked commissioners for funds, including:
— $75,000 for improved internet access to allow for security upgrades as OBS launches construction of its $3 million “Spreading Our Wings” project to renovate buildings, create two additions on the Visitor Center, upgrade systems, and expand the trail system to improve accessibility.
— $50,000 toward the construction of a new $1 million, 10,000-square foot show arena at the fairgrounds.
— $500,000 for the $5 million effort planned to create an inclusive facility at Sterkel Park, south of the Sterkel Baseball Complex and southeast of Richland Newhope’s Raintree residential facility.
Commissioners listened to efforts being made or planned at all three locations, but made no financial commitments.
Harris told commissioners the OBS expects to double its annual visitors to 60,000 from its current 30,000 in the next couple of years with the additions and improvements being made.
In 2021, for example, the sanctuary opened its unique Treehouse Classroom, the facility’s “first step in the development of capital projects that will advance our mission and expanding role in outdoor education,” according to Gail Laux, OBS founder and executive director.
“If we double the amount of visitors, we need (camera) eyes everywhere in the facility and we can’t do that right now,” Harris said.
Commissioner Tony Vero asked Harris if she could take less than the amount requested.
“Of course we would,” she said. “We need the help.”
Harris said the fairgrounds hopes to build a show arena double the size of the one it now has, including two rings instead of one, and offering handicapped accessibility.
Harris said this project, like the other two she discussed, could receive state grant funds. She said it would also provide the fairgrounds a facility that could host events and generate revenue for the Home Road facility.
Vero said he understands the local fair board lost significant revenue in 2020 due to the pandemic and said commissioners would be meeting with the county agricultural society board to discuss finances.
The “community park for all,” an idea introduced at Mansfield City Council in August 2021, would offer playground equipment and more for children and adults of all ages and abilities.
“These are high-end pieces of equipment, plus a huge, five-zone area,” she said. “Any child or adult who has any kind of a disability can participate.
“Instead of watching others play, they can actually join in.”
She said organizers, including Richland Newhope, have already raised about $600,000 and have asked the state for $1 million in grants. A capital campaign is in the works, Harris said.
“We are going to get started this summer and will host an event at the site in August with an update. We are starting slow,” she said. “By the time we really get into this and kick it off, I hope we are $2 million down the road.”
Vero asked if the City of Mansfield has made a financial contribution.
Harris said a request for $700,000 has been made, but no answer has been received as of yet.
“I believe funds from the city will pay for restrooms, utilities and all the cleanup that needs to be done,” she said.
“As Columbus grows closer, this (park) would be one more (thing) we can draw people to who have special needs children because of what we can offer. Very few communities, even the largest, will have anything like this.”
