Putnam County Debates Land Development Code Overhaul

Overview: Putnam County Council’s recent meeting was dominated by discussions on proposed revisions to the Land Development Code (LDC), which included the creation of an Administrative Deviation Committee (ADC), adjustments to the development services code, and debates on special use permits, accessory structures, and the definition of family in property ownership. The proposed changes to the LDC sparked a debate among participants, with public input highlighting concerns about the potential for conflicts of interest and the committee’s wide-ranging powers.

Putnam County Zoning Board Approves Special Use Permits

Overview: The Putnam County Zoning Board recently approved several special use permits, including those for a private school in an agricultural zoning district, a commercial driving school to conduct CDL testing, and the creation of a 72-acre artificial pond.

Putnam County Council Approves Hog Island Luxury Community Rezoning

Overview: In a development for Putnam County, the council has passed a rezoning ordinance that will pave the way for a private luxury community on Hog Island. The decision, which resulted in a 4-1 vote, follows discussions around the provision of emergency services and the impact of the development on the island life. Mr. Kennedy, the applicant for the rezoning, assured that the development would be the least intrusive option and would address the challenges of island life. Despite concerns raised by Commissioner Adams and other members regarding the costs and safety implications of providing emergency services on the island, the council agreed that these issues would be addressed in the subsequent development review process. The support for the project was also echoed by Judith York, a resident of Drayton Island, who cited the previous expiration of the planned unit development and the applicant’s rights.

Putnam County Planning Commission Debates School Rezoning and Navy Range

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Putnam County Planning Commission, members grappled with a rezoning application from the Putnam County School District and received a detailed presentation on the Pine Castle bombing range from representatives of the United States Navy. The school district sought to rezone 18.11 acres from agriculture to public use light P1 to allow for the construction of a new public school, while the presentation addressed the impact of Navy operations on local municipalities.

Putnam County Council Rejects Memorial Bridge Lighting Proposal

Overview: In a notable decision, the Putnam County Council voted against the proposed lighting project for the Memorial Bridge, emphasizing financial concerns and community priorities. This decision came after debate over the potential long-term costs, including ongoing electricity charges estimated at $20,000 annually and maintenance responsibilities. Despite support from community members, who cited economic, tourism, and aesthetic benefits, the council ultimately determined the liabilities outweighed the advantages, resulting in a two to three vote against the project.