Harzog, Montgomery and Oglesbee recognized for Bluffton Police Department careers

By Paula Pyzik Scott

The Village of Bluffton Council held a regular meeting on Monday, October 12 with Mayor Rich Johnson conducting the meeting. (The meeting packet is here.) Discussions included residential and commercial development planning and honoring three Bluffton Police Department officers with 10- and 25-year anniversaries.

POLICE DEPARTMENT
Police Chief Ryan Burkholder announced three major anniversaries reached by Bluffton officers. Officer Troy Harzog (not present) was recognized for 10 years of service. Lieutenant Matt Oglesbee and Officer Charles (Ed) Montgomery were recognized for 25 years of service.

Montgomery has supported the department by covering special and athletic events, patrolling and responding to emergencies. Individual awards received by Montgomery include the 2022 Chief's Leadership Award, the 2011 Meritorious Service Medal, the 2007 Hero's Award, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol Award, 2006.

Chief Burkholder said of Montgomery that he's always been a pleasure to work with and enjoyed that "you don't always know what he's going to say."

Individual awards received by Oglesbee during his 25 years of service include 2019 & 2025 Chief's Leadership Awards, 2025 Meritorious Award Citation for Knights Inn Felony Theft Arrests, 2021 Letter of Commendation for Active Shooter Event, 2016 Community Service Award for founding National Night Out, 2002 Active Shooter Award for response to Domestic Violence involving SWAT.

Chief Burkholder noted that Lieutenant Oglesbee's institutional knowledge is "unbelievable" and thanked him for playing a significant role in advancing the department.

To paint a picture of how much has changed over the last 25 years, Burkholder noted that both officers have served under three chiefs, five mayors and two Village solicitors. They have operated four types of cruisers. Oglesbee oversaw the first use of a cruiser camera system, which used VHS tapes. They have worn two different patches and worn two different styles of body armor.

The chief said, "These two have seen a lot of officers come and go, but they have made the ultimate decision to make this department their home for 25 years. Thank you, very much."

PUBLIC HEARING
Council exited the regular meeting for a public hearing on the rezoning of a parcel at Augsburger Rd (served by Willow Ridge Dr.) for the purpose of developing 24 duplex residential units. Council approved the change from R-I to R-III zoning. In his capacity as Zoning Officer, Jesse Blackburn said  the owner would like to begin construction this year.

Later in the regular meeting, the zoning change was approved by council.

PLANNING
Council member Tom Downey reported on development recommendations discussed with members of the Bluffton Beyond Tomorrow steering committee. Hancock and Allen County economic development groups have asked for "wants" for residential, industrial and commercial. Downey said that sometimes it's easier to identify what isn't wanted, such as a dislike of cul-de-sacs. Wants included commercial developments that bring employment, affordable housing and funding for renovating second floors of downtown buildings to provide better access and bring buildings up to code.

PARCEL AT PARKVIEW AND MAIN
Council asked questions about an upcoming hearing requesting a change in zoning for an undeveloped parcel at the corner of Parkview and S. Main St. Edward Jones financial advisor Brandon Blackford would like to move from his 107 S. Main St. location. 

To be considered is whether access would be provided from Main St. or Parkview.

VILLAGE ADMINISTRATION

Village Administrator Jesse Blackburn reported that the Cultural Affairs Committee is reviewing proposals for professional lighting of the Blaze of Lights and Ream Display at Bluffton Presbyterian Church. The committee's $11K budget is less than proposals received to date. 

BLUFFTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
Fire Chief Jon Kinn reported that the department is getting more involved in Allen County inspections. When he is in public buildings, he may see things of concern but can't follow through. He will now receive inspection announcements.

Kinn noted that the antique Studebaker needs some repair work and some funding. He may need to use an alternative form of transportation for Santa in the Blaze of Lights parade.