- Local business owners in Mansfield express concerns over a proposed bank branch on a key parking lot.
- Park National Bank intends to construct on part of the lot, offering its current building to the city for future use.
- A rally was organized to oppose the loss of 90 parking spaces, which could negatively impact local commerce.
- The mayor of Mansfield is working towards a solution that satisfies all parties involved.
Melissa Lawrence is deeply concerned about the future of downtown Mansfield.
“Without parking, we lose our customers, and our businesses can’t thrive,” said Lawrence, who owns City Grille.
Lawrence voiced her concerns during a rally on Tuesday, October 14, aimed at preserving the municipal parking lot.
Mansfield City Council is set to review the proposal again on October 21, after postponing a vote due to public feedback on the parking issue.
Park National Bank plans to establish a new branch on the western section of the parking lot at Fourth and Main streets, while donating its current building at 3 N. Main St. to the city for redevelopment.
The council will deliberate on transferring part of the parking lot to the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC).
If the plan is approved, the CIC will acquire the bank’s building to seek redevelopment opportunities.
Mayor Engages with Local Business Community
During a recent meeting, Mayor Perry listened to the concerns of downtown business owners about the potential loss of 90 parking spaces.
Many businesses are already struggling due to the Main Street Improvement Project, which has caused road closures and reduced parking availability.
On October 14, Perry addressed the issue on social media.
“I acknowledge that the introduction of the downtown project could have been communicated more effectively,” she stated. “We failed to clearly convey the vision, parking strategy, and how this fits into the broader downtown plan. The timing with ongoing construction was unfortunate. I take responsibility for that.”
“I appreciate those who have voiced their concerns, even when it’s difficult to hear. Your input is valuable.”
Approximately 50 individuals gathered on West Fourth Street, near the municipal lot, to participate in the rally.
Joyce Wells, CEO of Richland Carrousel Park, was uncertain about the turnout. She attempted to distribute signs to other downtown businesses, but many declined to participate.
“I wanted to show unity,” Wells explained.
Rally Amidst Ongoing Construction
The rally unfolded as construction on the Main Street Improvement Project continued in the background.
Zac Huffines, a baker at Buckeye Bakery, offered doughnut holes to rally participants.
“I relocated from Columbus for a more relaxed lifestyle,” Huffines shared. “This parking lot has been my gateway to exploring downtown Mansfield. There’s so much potential here.”
Some community members question the decision to build a bank on the lot.
“I want to preserve the parking, but I don’t see how a bank will increase downtown traffic,” said Sarah Bennett, co-manager of What Goes ‘Round Thrift Shoppe.
Bennett and co-manager Deb Brown emphasized they don’t want to be negative.
“Our business is stable, but it’s affecting others, and I don’t like seeing that,” Bennett added.
Lawrence also expressed concerns about the bank’s location.
“It’s not attracting new business or creating jobs,” she remarked.
Bank’s Response to Community Concerns
Chris Hiner, regional president and home lending director at Park National Bank, stated that the bank is attentive to community feedback.
“This isn’t just about us; it’s about our community,” Hiner said. “Ultimately, we want what’s best for Mansfield and Richland County.”
Council At-Large David Falquette was the only city official present at the rally. He emphasized that without parking, the bank project cannot proceed.
He plans to decide his vote based on whether Mayor Perry can propose alternative parking solutions.
“If she presents a viable plan, we’ll consider it,” Falquette stated. “Without a reasonable plan, I don’t see it being approved.”
“That’s my stance. I can’t speak for other council members, but I believe they’ll lean similarly.”
Falquette clarified that the council has not permanently shelved the proposal.
“We haven’t dismissed it; we’ve just paused to reassess,” he explained.
If the council approves the proposal, Falquette suggests considering other development options, not just the bank’s plan.
Conversely, rejecting the proposal might signal that Mansfield is not open to business.
In her social media post, Perry expressed optimism about the project’s potential.
“It could bring significant investment, new energy, and confidence in our downtown’s future,” the mayor wrote. “But it must benefit everyone – our merchants, visitors, and residents.”
Perry called for a collective effort to find a compromise.
“I’ve dedicated my career to finding common ground and believe a solution is possible here,” she wrote.
As the rally concluded, Wells expressed satisfaction with the turnout, “considering it’s a Tuesday afternoon.”
“All we can do is try, right?” she said.
mcaudill@gannett.com
419-521-7219
X: @MarkCau32059251
