By: 1812Blockhouse
Tuesday’s marathon set of meetings for Mansfield City Council saw that body review over 20 pieces of legislation. Over the coming days, we will review several of those measures.
It may not have a big price tag, but a request of the Richland Early American Center for History (REACH) was one of the items on Tuesday that caused the most discussion.
Bill #20-145, which received a first reading, is a measure which would grant a license to REACH to erect a blacksmith’s shop in South Park in the vicinity of both the Blockhouse and the newly-constructed cabin.
Tom Pappas of REACH was on Zoom to speak to the proposal. He noted that the request is of the same type enacted by Council in 2015 or 2016 for erection of the cabin, which was recently completed. The structure would serve as a blacksmith’s and cooper shop, and would be built according to plans developed by the Seckel Group. Classes would be provided at the stie for students and community members, Pappas added.
Some trenching in the general area of the cabin remains to be completed, he said. The siting of the shop is being finalized, with consideration of the Blockhouse’s visibility as one of the primary objectives.
Councilwoman Jean Taddie stated that there had been one communication received from a neighborhood resident related to the plans, and she wondered about the organization’s outreach efforfts.
Pappas assured her that communication does take place with Brinkerhood Avenue neighbors from Park Avenue West to Maple Street. Councilman Jon Van Harlingen suggested that the concern may have something to do with the firing of cannon; Pappas responded that they will be creating a schedule of demonstrations that include cannon or musket fire so that neighbors are aware.
Pappas concluded his remarks by inviting Council members to visit and see the progress, and more than one member signaled interest in doing so.
Photo: 1812Blockhouse
