During a recent city council meeting, local business owner and resident Kim Mullins voiced concerns regarding safety and traffic management in historic downtown Mansfield. Mullins, who operates Sunshine Yoga Shack, highlighted the dangers posed by heavy pedestrian traffic and vehicle interactions, particularly during events like \"Haunt the Block,\" which attracted thousands of visitors. She urged the council to consider redirecting traffic away from Main and Broad Streets to enhance walkability and safety for pedestrians, especially families with children.

Mullins emphasized the importance of creating a walkable city for the health and well-being of residents, citing studies that link walkability to longevity. Her comments were echoed by another resident who supported a community activation grant request aimed at improving safety during downtown events. This resident stressed that closing streets temporarily during events would facilitate safer access for families and support local businesses.

In addition to public comments, the council discussed updates on roadway impact fees, which are reviewed every five years. Staff presented recommendations to adjust these fees to better align with the city’s economic development goals, particularly to attract specific industries. The council is expected to consider these recommendations in future meetings.

The meeting also included updates on community events, such as \"The Power of Youth,\" aimed at educating young people about making safe choices and resisting peer pressure, in collaboration with local law enforcement and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Overall, the discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance safety, promote community engagement, and support local businesses in Mansfield.