Mansfield and AFSCME Local 3088 Unite for 22nd Annual Make A Difference Day Food Drive

Mansfield is set to host the 22nd annual Make A Difference Day Food Drive this Friday, a collaborative effort between the city and AFSCME Local 3088.

 

Mayor Jodie Perry announced the event during Tuesday's City Council meeting, urging both officials and residents to participate.

 

Donations will be collected outside the DLX restaurant at 28 N. Main St. from 7 to 10 a.m.

 

Community organizer Doc Stumbo, who has spearheaded this initiative for over two decades, emphasized the critical need to replenish supplies at local food pantries, including Wayfinders at 124 W. Third St. and Catholic Charities at 523 Park Ave. East.

 

“We encourage donations, particularly from council members, as we're conducting an internal drive,” Perry stated.

 

“You can drop off food on the first floor, or bring it up, and we'll ensure it gets delivered.”

 

She added, “Or drop it off Friday morning. Doc always appreciates seeing people down there.”

 

Stumbo highlighted the pressing demand for nonperishable food items, toiletries, and paper products, as well as monetary contributions.

 

“There's a greater need this year than I've seen in past years,” he noted.

 

“Even one can or a few cans can make a significant difference.”

 

For more information, contact Stumbo at 419-524-0733 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

 

In other City Council news, Perry announced the commencement of the city's 2026 financial budget planning.

 

“We're internally working on the budget, so that will be coming your way on the second meeting in November,” she said.

 

Additionally, the city is collaborating with Shelby to select a consultant for a comprehensive land-use plan.

 

“When we talk about where we want future business expansion going, things like that, that is where the land-use plan is going to be essential,” Perry explained.

 

She emphasized the importance of public input in this year-long process.

 

Residents were also reminded that Mansfield's citywide “Trick or Treat” is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 30, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

 

“If you want to participate, just put the front light on,” Perry advised.

 

During the public participation segment, resident Matthew Schuster reiterated his call for additional police officers to address crime concerns.

 

“I feel like I'm largely being ignored because this is an important issue,” Schuster expressed.

 

He cited personal experiences, including multiple 9-1-1 calls and delayed response times.

 

“We need more guys, we need more police. We need more vehicles on the street,” he urged.

 

In other matters, local businessman John Fernyak commended the city for halting a proposal to sell part of the Mansfield Municipal Parking lot to Park National Bank.

 

He also suggested removing downtown parking meters to enhance competitiveness with shopping malls and proposed the construction of a downtown parking garage.

 

The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 5, a shift from the usual Tuesday to accommodate post-election activities.