Historic Designation Sought for St. Mary’s Church as Palatka Board Delves into Local Legacy

Overview: The Palatka Historic Preservation Board recently convened to discuss several issues, with the historic designation of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church taking center stage. The board unanimously approved the motion to nominate the church for the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its architectural significance and deep-rooted connections to the community’s civil rights history. Discussions also included future agenda items and board member qualifications.

Palatka Planning Board Reviews Comprehensive Plan Updates and Economic Development Strategies

Overview: During the latest Palatka Planning Board meeting, members focused on the comprehensive plan update process and its implications for future growth and development within the city. The discussions covered a wide range of topics, from land use and transportation to economic development and historic preservation. In addition, the meeting featured a dialogue on potential changes to local ordinances and the charter review process, which may impact the city’s regulatory framework.

Putnam County Grapples with Lease Controversy and Infrastructure Overhauls Amid Community Initiatives

Overview: The recent meeting of the Putnam County Council was dominated by discussions on a contentious lease extension for Port Annex property, alongside significant infrastructure deliberations and community service recognitions. The council faced divided opinions on renewing a lease with Copper Roads LLC, as concerns about property maintenance and potential revenue loss took center stage. Meanwhile, planning for IT department relocation and the acquisition of a boat ramp property underscored ongoing efforts to enhance county facilities.

Unlicensed Vehicle Sparks Code Violation at Palatka Special Magistrate Meeting

Overview: In a recent Palatka Special Magistrate meeting, the primary focus was on a code violation regarding an unlicensed vehicle parked on residential property on North 14th Street. The property owners, identified as Leonard Battles and Jimmy Battles, did not attend the meeting or respond to notification attempts. As a result, the Special Magistrate ruled that the property must be brought into compliance by November 19, 2025, with a $25 daily fine for non-compliance thereafter.

Palatka City Commission Grapples with City Manager Investigation and 30-Day Cure Period

Overview: The Palatka City Commission meeting was dominated by discussions surrounding the investigation into City Manager Marcia Cardi and the implications of establishing a 30-day cure period for her to address allegations of misconduct. The meeting revealed deep concerns over management practices, employee morale, and the potential costs associated with Cardi’s termination.