Commissioners,
On Sept. 16, Dr. Hersey (Dist. 3 commissioner) presented item 11 at the Board of Commissioners meeting: “Discussion and possible action to enact a six-month moratorium on rezoning, preliminary plat approvals, and major subdivisions.”
During the meeting, he proposed that the moratorium apply only to properties north of Highway 16. This motion aimed to provide a crucial pause to address the fastest-growing area of the county and to allow time for proper planning.
However, Commissioner McElhenney proposed an amended motion for a six-month moratorium covering the entire county, while allowing all properties currently in process to continue. This motion was approved by all commissioners except Dr. Hersey.
The Putnam County Republican Party believes this decision is flawed for three key reasons: It’s excessive:A county-wide moratorium is an overreach. It negatively impacts areas south of Highway 16, which are primed for growth, opportunity, and ample infrastructure.
It misses the mark:The moratorium doesn’t address the core issue of rapid development near Harmony Road and Highway 44, an area that lacks the necessary infrastructure to support it.
It’s counterproductive:It fails to expedite the urgent need to update the county’s Comprehensive Plan than includes infrastructure needs, both are crucial steps for managing future growth.
The Putnam County Republican Party urges our local leaders to revisit their decision made on Sept. 16 and adopt a more considerate moratorium and motions that includes expedition of the Comprehensive Plan, including infrastructure needs which prioritizes a balanced plan that promotes thoughtful growth in Putnam County.
Respectfully, The Putnam County Republican Party (Submitted by Dale C. Bills)