Mansfield City Council has a decision to make on Tuesday night. They will vote to approve or deny a $5 annual increase to the license plate fee paid by city residents.
City Council should not merely pass the measure, but pass it unanimously.
The tax will generate approximately $200,000 annually that will be restricted for use on downtown improvements. It’s important to note these local dollars will open the doors to “the potential of leveraging millions of dollars in grant funds,” according to City Engineer Bob Bianchi. Based upon Mr. Bianchi’s history of success in this realm, we believe his assertion is spot-on.
If approved, funds will be overseen by a newly formed Downtown Improvement Advisory Board including the Mayor and six appointed representatives with a wide breadth of experience. This makes sense. An independent board provides for transparent accountability and creates a crucial partnership between public policy and private enterprise. We applaud Mr. Bianchi for his creativity and initiative and thank Mayor Theaker for getting behind the project.
This list of respected organizations supporting the measure is long. It includes the Richland County Foundation, the Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Mansfield, Inc., and many others.
Tuesday evening is City Council’s opportunity to join that growing list. Unanimous passage sends a clear signal that Mansfield’s city government is united, looking forward, and ready to lead.
Council members may face some push-back from constituents. Virtually no one loves a new tax, no matter how small. What people do love is the sense of hope and optimism that a vibrant and growing city center can bring to a community.
The proposed legislation is reasonable, it has long-term benefits, it’s transparent and provides for oversight, and it is widely supported.
It deserves passage and that passage should be unanimous.
