Frequently Asked Questions
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What will be included in the facility?
That’s up to you! The idea is to have fitness (equipment, classroom spaces, gym, indoor track), aquatics (indoor pool, play elements) and a full library (books, study spaces, program rooms) all in one building, but the goal of the feasibility study is to determine exactly what features residents want and what other amenities could/should be added. The study has a steering committee of residents, city leaders, staff and experts that will combine your feedback with their research to figure out what’s best for Mansfield. That’s why your feedback is so important! Take the survey, attend a meeting, or go to our website and submit a message.
How much will memberships cost?
We do not have any numbers yet, that will depend largely on what amenities are included and the total project budget. Typically, this type of facility can offer great services at a much more affordable cost for residents than a private gym.
Where will be new center be located?
We are currently looking at a 12-acre city-owned property within the Shops at Broad. It is directly on the Walnut Creek Linear Trail, giving a unique access and additional recreation element, and centrally located for the city. Part of the steering committee's goal is to determine if this is the best location and how the facility would fit on that space, so no location has been finalized.
What will happen to the existing MAC and Library?
The plan right now is to convert the existing buildings into one dedicated senior/active adult center. Our senior population is growing and we need a space for fitness, enrichment and socialization just for them. This new project is a catalyst that will allow us to make that possible.
Will the new facility include seniors?
The center will be open to all ages, but current plans do not include a dedicated senior space or classrooms. The goal is to convert the existing MAC and Library into an exclusive senior/active adult center that will include the gym, fitness, classroom/gathering space and more. That facility is not being planned right now, but those discussions will begin once the new recreation center is approved and underway.
How much will the whole project cost? How much will it raise my taxes?
The total budget will depend on what amenities residents want to see! The study underway right now will help us narrow down those features and come up with a final concept and budget. We can’t say yet what the effect will be on taxes, but nothing will be built unless voters approve it in the bond election.
What is a bond election? When will the bond election take place?
A bond election is where the city proposes a project and voters decide whether or not it is funded. At this time, there is no bond election scheduled but the City Council is considering calling one in 2022. Bond elections are typically held in May or November. We are doing this feasibility study now to have conceptual plans and cost estimates ready if a bond election is called. This way, voters will have an accurate overview of the project.
Why don’t we fix the streets (or other project)? Why don’t we build more trails (or other park projects)?
There are lots of great ideas! While this project is focused on a new recreation center and library, a future bond election could include projects from numerous city departments such as police, fire, and streets. A bond election will allow residents to vote for exactly what they would like to see funded. The recreation center is our primary focus for parks and recreation; it was the highest priority in the 2020 master plan and we can reach many different users with one facility. We do have a number of other park projects already underway and future ones outlined in our master plan, which you can see on our website.
Will this new facility compete with local businesses?
Most large cities have multiple recreation centers and private fitness clubs that all exist successfully. Each serves a different purpose and target audience, and the goal is not to compete with any private business but to serve residents who would like different options. City-owned facilities are typically more affordable and more family-focused than a private gym, which is used by more serious fitness enthusiasts. Additionally, the library and meeting spaces could offer business services, technology training and other services that will help small businesses get off the ground, helping grow the local economy.
How can I learn more/get involved?
This website will be updated frequently as more information is available, and it also has a contact form to submit comments and sign up for email notifications. The first meeting happened on June 8, 2021 and can be found in the videos tab, and additional meetings and virtual participation options will be held over the next few months. The online survey will also help shape a lot of decisions and will go live right after the first meeting.