UPDATED 9:20 A.M. with cancellation of May 27 public hearing and meeting packet.

By Paula Pyzik Scott

The Village of Bluffton Council held a regular meeting on May 12 at Bluffton Town Hall with all council members present.

The meeting included mention of a May 27 public hearing regarding an artificial turf practice field proposed by the Bluffton Schools for a space across and closing Vine St. at Lawn. (This meeting has since been cancelled.) Council heard reports on EMS equipment needs and updates to both the EMS and Fire stations.

Safety Services committee member Phill Talavinia recommended and council approved increased costs for powered ambulance cots and a new type of laryngeal scope.

Councilor Joe Sehlhorst reported that medallions will be installed warning residents not to dispose of materials in storm drains. Service groups are being recruited to assist with installation of the rubber discs.

Assistant Village Administrator Bryan Lloyd reported that Community Pool repairs and Legacy Park soccer field development are progressing. Both projects need some dry weather. Other notes:

• Community Dog Park on Lake St. is “not not open.” Signs still need to be installed providing rules for users.
• The Public Works Dept. will grind and paint the shuffleboard courts.
• Lawns should not be allowed to grow longer than 7 inches. Door hanger reminders are being posted at locations with long grass.

Fire Chief Jon Kinn reported that dry wall work at the Fire Station uncovered some moisture issues under paneling, resulting in mold and ants. Some eight sheets of drywall are being replaced.

Police Chief Ryan Burkholder submitted statistics for April 2025 and reported that a phone scam has been discovered. The caller calls himself “Officer Shephard” and tells people to purchase CVS gift cards. Burkholder emphasizes that there is no officer by that name in Bluffton and that you should always hang up on such callers.

Village Administrator Jesse Blackburn reported that he hoped to meet with the contractor hired by the Bluffton Schools for the proposed artificial turf practice field adjacent to Bluffton Elementary School, noting that this should happen before the associated public hearing. He mentioned that the height of light poles and fencing would likely require a variance hearing. Council member Ben Stahl inquired about a traffic study, noting that school is about to wrap up for the year. Council member Joe Sehlhorst asked about designs for drainage and wanted to be assured that there would be a visual provided on this issue.

Police Sergeant Matt Ogesbee noted that Tuesday, August 5 will be 2025 National Night Out.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:42 p.m. with council entering an executive session for the purpose of employment.