Mayor Timothy Theaker discussed the significance of working with businesses and helping them grow.
Both Theaker and the Economic Development Director, Tim Bowersock, have been traveling to Mansfield businesses and asking how they can help. Their mission is simple: to strengthen ties between the city and local businesses.
“We have a network of businesses that inform us if they need assistance,” said the mayor. “One company told us they wanted to expand, but there was a re-zoning issue. We were able step in and help them out.”
Theaker also mentioned that his administration is working with a few different companies that may bring their businesses to Mansfield. With these new business prospects, he’s hopeful for the addition of 100s of job opportunities.
In the spirit of improving properties, the administration is working on demolition projects within Mansfield.
Donnie Mitchell, the Community Development Officer, stated that the administration is looking forward to 125 demolitions this year, which is significantly larger than the number of demolitions in previous years.
“We’ve gotten the system down now and so far the demolitions have been working out really well. And that’s why we’re kind of the lead entity for the county. With our knowledge and understanding, we’re trying to make sure there’s a strong collaboration between the city and the county. And in doing that, it’s a win, win for everybody.”
One of the major demolition projects the city is considering is the Woodville School. This past month the City of Mansfield purchased the school, just off of Woodville and Cook Road, from the county. Theaker stated, “We think we have enough money to tear the building down, which will make that area safer.”
The mayor shared how difficult it is to gather finances for demolitions and other projects.
“We have tightened our belts and the city has had to cut back on funding for different staffing and services in Mansfield, including engineering, police, safety forces, plowing, sewer repair, and so on. We’ve cut back on our budget to the level where services are done, but at a strain to the workforce.”
Despite economic difficulties, the city has seen a boost in community involvement. Theaker expressed, “We have an awful lot of people who give back to the community.”
Theaker noted that Doug Versaw and Dalton Derr are two individuals in particular who have bolstered the city in tough times. The men have taken it upon themselves to improve and maintain the conditions of the 32 parks in Mansfield when finances dwindled.
In addition to community involvement, Mayor Theaker mentioned how he appreciates the diversity in Mansfield, “You get all kinds of individuals with all kinds of ideas.”
A life-long resident of Mansfield, Theaker is well-versed in the different things that are going on in the city. “I think Mansfield along with the surrounding area has a lot to offer. There’s the Tough Mudder in Butler, Mid-Ohio, the Final Friday Concert Series in Downtown Mansfield, farmers’ markets, the Renaissance Theatre, and so much more,” he said.
If you would like more information on the City of Mansfield, visit http://ci.mansfield.oh.us/.