The Allen County and Hancock County Board of Elections show the following candidates for November 2025 races for Bluffton area elected offices: Bluffton Exempted Village Schools board, Orange and Richland Township boards of trustees, and Village of Bluffton council. The deadline for filing candidate petitions was August 6. Some applications are currently shown as valid and some are shown as pending.
Bluffton Exempted Village Schools Board
To elect: 3, nonpartisan
BLUFFTON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEDIA RELEASE__On Thursday, August 21, we are hosting our next Lunch & Learn on the 3rd floor of the Town Hall building from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., “Let’s Talk Tech (and AI!) with Courtnee R. Morris”
Curious about Artificial Intelligence? Confused by your computer? Just want to learn something new in a fun, judgment-free space? Join us for a relaxed and engaging Lunch & Learn with Courtnee R. Morris—a lifelong educator, tech trainer, and PhD candidate in Instructional Design with a focus on AI.
By Robin L. Brown, LISW-S
Psychotherapist, Psychiatric Center of Northwest Ohio
For many, family is considered a sacred bond—unchangeable, unconditional and lifelong. But for a growing number of Americans, family relationships are not a source of support, but of deep pain and distance. Family estrangement, once a taboo topic kept behind closed doors, is now a rising and recognized social trend. Research shows that approximately 1 in 4 Americans are estranged from at least one family member. The reasons are complex and the impacts are profound.
By Myron D. Lewis
FACHE, President & CEO, Blanchard Valley Health System
This week, Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS) had the honor of hosting Senator Jon Husted for a thoughtful discussion on the future of healthcare in rural Ohio. His visit was more than a courtesy call, it was a genuine demonstration of leadership and concern for the communities we serve every day.
In an era where rural hospitals face mounting challenges—financial, operational, and demographic—it matters when elected leaders take the time to listen and learn directly from those on the front lines. Senator Husted’s presence in Findlay and his willingness to sit down with our leadership team was not just appreciated, it was necessary.
The first article in the Bluffton Exempted Village Schools 2025-2026 Summer District Newsletter is featured below. The entire newsletter, which is mailed to residents, is attached below.
By Greg Denecker
Bluffton Exempted Village Schools Superintendent
The first part of this summer newsletter provides context for the Bluffton Exempted Village School purchase of property across from the elementary school on Vine Street. As you know, Bluffton Exempted Village Schools is a landlocked district in the middle of town. This presents both benefits and challenges. A benefit is that our school helps to promote a vibrant community within downtown Bluffton. Before and after school, students can be seen walking uptown or being picked up by their parents in the downtown area, which contributes to a sense of oneness between the school and downtown.
