Eric Fulcomer, Bluffton council president, is the first person to announce intentions to run for mayor of Bluffton this year. Fred Rodabaugh, mayor, announced earlier this month that he would not seek re-election.

"Our community is truly a wonderful place to live and work," said Fulcomer as he announced his plans to seek the Republican Party's nomination for mayor.

"I look forward to talking with the citizens of Bluffton in the coming months about our collective dreams for Bluffton's future."

Signatures and petitions are due to the Board of Elections by Feb. 2, in order to appear on the May 2011 primary ballot. Fulcomer said that he will start collecting signatures immediately. The mayor position will be decided at the general election on Nov. 8, 2011.

Fulcomer and his wife, Andrea, have two school-aged children, Noah and Anna, who attend Bluffton Elementary School. The Fulcomers are members of St. John Mennonite Church near Pandora where Fulcomer serves as a worship leader and Sunday school teacher.

Fulcomer received his bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University, his master's degree from Bowling Green State University, and his PhD from the University of Toledo.

Since 1993 he has worked at Bluffton University in a variety of roles and is currently Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Life.

Fulcomer has been a member of Bluffton council for nine years, and has served since 2004 as council president.

"As a child I developed an interest in government and how the democratic process works," said Fulcomer. "Being a member of village council has reaffirmed my belief that when a community works together, great things can be achieved."

In addition to his service on council, Fulcomer is a charter member of the Bluffton-Pandora Rotary Club and has served as the club's president. He is also on the board of The Whole Bean, Inc.