By Paula Pyzik Scott

The October 28 Bluffton Council meeting included two public comments, the 4-2 passage of legislation adding roosters to the list of banned animals and discussion of whether the Village would consider a moratorium on adult use marijuana dispensaries.

PUBLIC COMMENT
Bluffton resident Gene Long spoke to thank Village EMS for their recent assistance and to commend Fire, Police and Village employees for their professional, courteous and friendly service. He also thanked the Village for its involvement in celebrating Elbert Dubenion with the renaming of a portion of Bentley Rd. Roni Kaufmann appeared to ask about Tree Commission progress regarding the removal of a street tree. 

LEGISLATION
The third and final reading of legislation to add roosters to the Village list of banned animals was approved by a vote of 4-2. Council member Joe Sehlhorst, who voted no, commented, “Everything doesn’t have to be 6-0.” He said he would like to know how a rooster would be dealt with in the event the Village needed to enforce the ordinance. 

REPORTS
Village Administration: Jesse Blackburn reported that the Village is preparing to transition to Allen County building inspections in 2025. He said that the Wood County services currently being used are getting busier and struggling to cover all jobs. He was waiting to hear about ways to cover plumbing inspections in the portion of Bluffton in Hancock County.

Leaf pickup has begun. Blackburn noted that there will be a schedule issued soon.

Blackburn introduced the topic of cannabis dispensaries, saying that he has received inquiries about available properties. He asked for direction from council on how to respond to inquiries. He referenced OSU Moritz College of Law information on communities that have enacted a moratorium on adult use marijuana operators (see information HERE).

SPECIAL EVENT PERMITS
Council approved three permits related to the November 30 Blaze of Lights parade and festival, Santa’s House, and Blaze after Party.