Chick-fil-A has chosen a site for its newest location in Ontario, Ohio, signaling a major boost for the city’s flourishing commercial landscape.

The planned restaurant—adjacent to Pet Supplies Plus near North Lexington-Springmill Road and Village Mall Drive—will span roughly 4,375 square feet, offering indoor and outdoor seating, a double drive-thru, and 45 parking spaces.

Ontario Zoning Inspector Benji Hall confirmed Chick-fil-A’s early-stage plans, noting the application was submitted in October.

Since 2019, a Chick-fil-A food truck helped gauge local demand ahead of this investment.

The new restaurant could open as soon as late 2026.

Mayor Kris Knapp highlighted Ontario’s business-friendly growth, welcoming Chick-fil-A alongside recent additions like Raising Cane’s and Starbucks.

This move forms part of Chick-fil-A’s larger Ohio expansion, with up to 30 new locations and thousands of jobs anticipated statewide by 2027.

Matt Tifft, a former NASCAR driver and Medina native, is leading a dynamic revival of the historic Mansfield Speedway, with plans for a major reopening in May 2026.

Since purchasing the 180-acre site, Tifft has focused on transforming the long-quiet track into a lively destination for racing and events.

He’s coordinated a massive resurfacing project, bringing in approximately 600 truckloads of clay, and secured approval for a $1 million Jumbotron to elevate the fan experience.

The community has shown strong support, fueling anticipation for an exciting 2026 season.

Opening weekend will showcase Dirt Late Models, FAST Sprint Cars, and UMP Modifieds, while the venue will also welcome the World of Outlaws Real American Beer Late Model Series with a $57,000 top prize.

Tifft’s plans include motocross, concerts, car shows, and community events—ensuring entertainment for all, regardless of the unpredictable Ohio weather.

Stephen Stoneman, 32, of Mansfield, could face life in prison after being indicted on severe charges including rape and gross sexual imposition involving a juvenile.

The Richland County grand jury formally charged Stoneman, and authorities stress that a life sentence is possible if the victim is under 10 years old.

The alleged crimes occurred between late September 2023 and July 2024.

In a separate incident, Ian D. Kravitt, 45, was indicted on multiple counts related to child exploitation after investigators found explicit images on his phone during an October 2024 arrest by the Internet Crimes Against Children task force.

Additionally, Mansfield resident Jason Rose, 48, faces charges including rape and unlawful restraint following alleged offenses against a woman.

Local authorities continue their push to hold offenders accountable and urge community vigilance to help protect residents.

No foul play is suspected after the body of Heather Carpenter, 61, of Mansfield, was found at Malabar Farm State Park in Richland County.

Carpenter, who had set out for a hike on October 24, was discovered in a ravine near a popular trail after her husband reported her missing that evening.

The Richland County Coroner’s Office and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources conducted a joint investigation and have sent her body to the Montgomery County Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy.

Results are expected within a month, with officials urging visitors to always alert someone before hiking at the scenic park, known for honoring Louis Bromfield and offering rich history and educational experiences.

Authorities, alongside park staff, express deep condolences to Carpenter’s family.

Mansfield is upgrading its tech by moving to a cloud-based Microsoft 365 system, aimed at bringing modern tools and increased security to city operations.

After Board of Control approval, the city will invest $113,681 in licenses, hardware, and software, including a major email overhaul for all staff.

IT chief Mark Huckleberry explained the critical need to switch, as Microsoft is discontinuing support for its old servers.

This move ensures dependable updates, stronger protection, and email access for every city employee—solving gaps that left about 20% previously disconnected.

Safety Service Director Keith Porch emphasized the city’s cost-saving efforts, trimming the project well below the $170,000–$180,000 estimate.

Pending council approval, Mansfield plans to start transitioning in January 2026, supporting mobile, secure work.

Meanwhile, infrastructure change orders saved the city $45,296, including a significant $50,007 reduction for the B&O Trail connector project thanks to lower material needs.