By Paula Pyzik Scott

The February 12 meeting of the Village of Bluffton Council included reports on a grant opportunity for Buckeye Park, consideration of providing sewerage for parts of Allen County, surveying the alley by Bluffton Presbyterian Church and creating four designated use parking spots by Town Hall.

BILLS 
The February 12 Voucher Report lists $163,535 in payments to vendors and bi-weekly payrolls of $51,240.60 and $49,686.12. (See attached packet for details.)

COMMITTEE REPORTS
Parks and Recreation: Councilor Ben Stahl reported that the Allen County Creating Healthy Communities program has a grant opportunity for Buckeye Park. They are seeking community members to participate in the study to determine what materials could be used to increase use of the park. A feedback event and survey are planned.

Utilities: Councilor Dave Steiner reported that the committee will propose rates to accept sewerage from Allen County and new tap fees.

Pathway Board: Councilor Ben Stahl reported that motor vehicles were seen on the new bike and pedestrian pathway next to SR 103. The board is proposing small stop signs at various locations.

LEGISLATION
Second reading of Ordinance No. 02-2024: Passed without discussion. This is an ordinance to enact restricted parking zones on the northeastern side of the town hall along East Elm St. from Main St. to the mid-block alley: two spaces with 2-hour parking restrictions and 2 spaces for Village vehicles.

Second reading of Resolution Νο. 04-2024: Passed without discussion. This resolution establishes positions and wages for swimming pool staff and admission, passes, rental and swimming lesson rates For 2024. (See attachment, page 12)

VILLAGE ADMINISTRATION REPORT
Village Administrator Jesse Blackburn provided information on a new $4 tax appearing on residents’ property tax bills. He explained that this is indeed “a legit expense.” It applies to every parcel that drains into the Blanchard River and funds removal of log jams and other wood material. 

Blackburn reported on surveying to establish ownership of the alley by Bluffton Presbyterian Church. Sidewalk documents from 1906 and physical markings were used to determine that the alley is owned by the Village.

MAYOR / PERMIT REQUESTS
Two requests were approved by council: 

• Reserving three parking spots at Bluffton Presbyterian Church for “Ashes to Go” on February 14 
• Closure of the alley north of Bluffton Hospital on April 8 (day of the solar eclipse) to insure patient access to the facility.

SAFETY SERVICES REPORTS
Police Department: Chief Ryan Burkholder announced that missing teen Mackenna R. Morrissey was located that afternoon in Arkansas. The juvenile was found using her Facebook IP address with the assistance of the social media provider and the telecom provider.

In response to comments about the delay of initial missing person announcements, Burkholder noted that there is a big difference between a suspected abduction and a missing juvenile. He said that when the person has left the state it “ups the stakes.”  Burkholder thanked those who contacted the department with leads and concluded, “a child is going to get the help she needs.”

MEETING SCHEDULE

• Airport Commission - Tuesday, February 13 at 4:30 p.m. at the Bluffton Airport
• Council Meeting - Monday, February 26 at 7:00 pm
• Parks & Recreation Committee - Wednesday, February 28 at noon

The council went into executive session at 7:40 p.m.