Putnam County Council Advances Fairgrounds Building Design

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Putnam County Council covered a breadth of topics, with the focal point being the procurement and design approval of the new Putnam County fairgrounds building. The conceptual design of the building, which has already been funded through two legislative appropriations, was presented and discussed. The council also addressed the development plan for the Port, the use of impact fees, property donations, various community updates, and the progress of infrastructure projects.

Crescent City Considers Grant Writing Services and School Property Acquisition

Overview: The Crescent City Commission meeting focused on two primary concerns—the selection of grant writing services to aid in securing funding for city projects and the potential acquisition of a historic middle school property from the school board. The discussion on grant writing services centered around whether to continue with the city’s current grant writer, Fred Fox, who operates on a success-fee structure, or to explore hiring one of the various firms that responded to the city’s request for proposal. The commission is evaluating the top three firms and will discuss the selection at a future meeting.

Historic Palatka Property Set for Demolition Amid Safety Concerns

Overview: In a meeting focused on the preservation of Palatka’s historic character, the Palatka Historic Preservation Board addressed a series of applications for certificates of appropriateness, yet one notable issue was the approval of a contingent certificate for the emergency demolition of a blighted property on EMT Street. The property, a contributing structure within the historic district, had been abandoned since a destructive fire in 2017 and had become a safety hazard, compelling the city to take swift action.

Palatka CRA Approves Property Purchase and Demolition

Overview: In an effort to address longstanding issues with a dilapidated property, the Palatka Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) convened on March 6, 2024, to discuss and ultimately approve the acquisition and demolition of the property located on Emit Street.

Palatka Board Approves Land Use Changes Amid Zoning Concerns

Overview: In a move that stands to shape the future residential landscape of Palatka, the local Planning Board approved a request to amend the future land use and zoning for three parcels from commercial to residential during a recent meeting. This decision, coupled with a discussion on proposed code modifications relating to abandoned vehicles, and the expression of concerns about subdivision regulations marked the session as one focused on both immediate and long-term community development and regulation.