For the first time in the 153-year history of the Village of Bluffton, a woman presides in the mayor’s office. The historic event occurred during the Monday, June 2, council meeting.
Judy Augsburger, who became a council member on Jan. 1, 2014, is that woman. She succeeds Dennis Gallant as mayor. Gallant accepted a new job in Sandusky and resigned from his position on Monday evening.
The Icon anticipates the resignation of Dennis Gallant, Bluffton mayor, during tonight's (June 2) council meeting. Watch the Icon tonight for how the mayoral succession and selection process for a potential vacant council seat takes place.
In the meantime, Jamie Mehaffie, village administrator, provides an update on several village issues. His report follows:
This question may apply to the current Bluffton council and mayoral situation. Given the potential resignation on June 2 of Dennis Gallant, Bluffton mayor, a complex set of circumstances will take place. These circumstances affect the make up of Bluffton council and the potential for persons to seek future seats on council and as mayor.
Stephen Chamberlain, Bluffton village solicitor, addressed this issue at the May 19 council session.
Ordinance 03-14, the most talked about Bluffton council ordinance in years, passed on May 20.
Better known as the Bluffton sidewalk ordinance, it technically amends an earlier sidewalk ordinance 07-13. That earlier ordinance stated that sidewalks be constructed and maintained in "all" residential area of the village.
The face of Bluffton village government changed on May 19. And its change is not yet complete.
During the first council session following the “flooding” of the town hall, Mitch Kingsley, council president, announced his resignation as council president. He, however, did not resign from council and plans to retain his seat until later this year when he will resign.
Kingsley read a statement explaining the reasons for his resignation. His statement follows:
Bluffton council will meet in the town hall tonight (May 19), during its regular meeting, according to Jamie Mehaffie, village administrator. The meeting will take place in the third floor meeting room instead of the large meeting room.
