Bryant tours the Department of Regional Community Advancement at Ocie Hill

There have been a lot of changes recently at the Department of Regional Community Advancement over the year, leaving many north end residents concerned whether the city will maintain its RCA program or close the doors of the Ocie Hill building forever.

City officials recently mentioned at a City Council meeting, things would get worse before they get better; but that “things will definitely get better.”

“I wanted to know what that meant,” Councilman Bryant said.

“It’s important as an at-large council member to learn about all of the services and programs the City of Mansfield has to offer, which is why I wanted to meet with the department director to hear her vision moving forward.”  

On Thursday, Bryant stopped by the Ocie Hill building for a brief tour and to speak with new RCA Director, Lisa Hall.

Hall is a familiar face to the community as she has spent 15 years of her career working at the Ocie Hill building, with 11 of those years as a director of the Help Me Grow program.

“Public service is my heart, it’s who I am,” said Hall.  

Although the RCA budget is limited, Hall did mention there would be renovations completed, mostly cleaning and general maintenance. Also, the gymnasium at the Ocie Hill building will remain closed until everything is operable but, that the majority of the building and programs are open to the public.

“I want to be able to present a clean and a fully functioning facility with more options for the community to enjoy. This is the community’s building and they deserve quality results,” stated Hall.

One of the priorities of the department is fiscal responsibility and getting things back on track. Hall says partnering with the community is essential and she wants to be able to ensure the building is in good condition both fiscally and physically.

Bryant and Hall also talked about the history of the Ocie Hill building.

“From the age of 3 until when I was around 7 years old, I would visit this building with my grandmother and roam the halls. I loved socializing with grandma’s friends and exploring the building. I will always remember those times and watching the seniors play cards, bingo and board games,” said Bryant.

Hall said she'd like to continue to build upon the building’s rich history, “building on what we have.”

For more information on the city’s Department of Regional Community Advancement, you can visit: http://www.ci.mansfield.oh.us/departments-sp-783975672/regional-community-advancement.html or contact RCA Director Lisa Hall at 524-2626.

Upcoming Event:

• OCIE HILL CARNIVAL: July 25th 3-7 pm. All are welcome.