By Paula Pyzik Scott

The June 9 meeting of the Village of Bluffton Council was brief–27 minutes long–but full of updates on topics including the Village pool repairs, ideas for sewage services for Mast Estates and progress on Legacy Park fundraising. (Additional details are in the meeting packet HERE.)

Reporting for the Finance Committee, council member Dave Steiner said that the village is discussing sewage removal services for Mast Estates, a subdivision at Lugabill and Phillips roads, with Allen County sanitary engineers.

Council member Ben Stahl provided the Parks & Recreation committee report. He explained that the last steps to fix leaking seams in the Village pool was scheduled for June 10 and that the pool would open in two weeks.

Stahl also reported on fundraising for Legacy Park. The Bluffton Lions have over $100K in pledges for an all-abilities playground. The Bluffton Soccer Club is nearing $236K with additional funds pledged in 3- and 5-year installment agreements. Major pledges of $50K and $25K have been received for U12 soccer fields and the shelter house.

Among other items in his report, Village Administrator Jesse Blackburn reviewed a proposed Village-property owner cost sharing plan for sidewalk, curb and driveway improvements on West Elm between N. Spring and N. Lawn.

Council approved the hiring of Matthew Stock as a full-time EMS staff member, bringing the department to full capacity. EMS Chief Noah Babcock responded to a council inquiry that there are also five part-time employees and 10 volunteers. His goal is to have 15 volunteers.

The meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m. The next council meeting is at 7:00 p.m. on  Monday, June 23.