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COLUMBUS__The Ohio Department of Development has announced the release of more than $5.3 million in funding to support business growth and community enhancement including a project in Bluffton to improve the SR 103-Navajo Dr. intersection.

During its Monday meeting, the Ohio Controlling Board approved the release of more than $1.6 million through its Regional 166 Direct Loan program to benefit a pair of businesses and more than $3.7 million in Roadwork Development Grants to assist in a trio of construction projects.

Three communities will benefit from the Roadwork Development Grant, also known as the 629 program.

The Village of Bluffton will receive $1.22 million for public roadwork improvements in support of the GROB Systems, Inc., project in Hancock County. The proposed roadwork consists of constructing a single-lane roundabout on State Route 103 at the intersection with Navajo Drive and the reconstruction of Navajo Drive from State Route 103 moving south and then west to the intersection with Pocono Drive. As a result of the project and state assistance, 200 full-time equivalent jobs will be created, and 838 full-time equivalent jobs will be retained.

Work to limit in-Bluffton leaks has resulted in cost savings

By Andy Chappell-Dick

At a regular meeting on Monday, November 27, the Bluffton Council was informed that buying water from Ottawa will be more expensive in 2024. No immediate decision was made on whether or when to pass on the increase to Bluffton customers.