School intends to expand elementary playground
Watch this property. The house will disappear this year.
Bluffton’s school board announced the purchase of this residence on North Lawn Avenue owned by John R. Skelly, formerly of Bluffton. The purchase price was $110,000. In recent years the house served as a rental property.
According to Greg Denecker, Bluffton superintendent, the house will eventually be razed to expand the elementary playground.
“Our intention is to make this property a green space in the playground,” he told The Icon.
Once the project is completed, the current driveway between the property and school will revert to playground space. A new driveway will go on the north side of the property.
With this property purchase the school now owns all real estate except for one remaining residence. That property is directly north of the house purchased by the school. It is on the corner of Vine and Lawn. There was no discussion at this time by the board for the purchase of that property.
Stories Posted This Week
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
- Obituary for centenarian Lois Jean Andreas
- Thomas "Tom" J. Basinger served in the U.S. Army
- President Sider to present Aug. 25 State of the University address
- August 10 council recap: Spending increase for Benroth bridge repairs
- MHCO requests zoning change for construction of senior duplexes
- WIP Wednesday: 1915 kitchen gets a charming DIY remodel
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Monday, August 10, 2026
- Pirate girls tennis 2nd at Lima City tourney
- Professor Parquet on the passing of Don Nelson
- Bluffton historical society to discuss upcoming events, fundraising
- Bluffton Public Library hosts Mobile Health Clinic on Aug. 13
- 2026 PorchFest preview: Tommy Jenkins, Cat Dailey, Szabo Trio
- Chair massages offered at the Senior Center
- Bluffton Senior Center to host Spa Day