Contract Signed For Dirt Work At Tennessee Avenue Fairgrounds

Dirt work at the new Putnam County Fairgrounds on Tennessee Avenue expected to start over the next few days.

Putnam County Mayor Randy Porter said the county signed a contract for the work at $6.3 million.

“We have another million in the new budget coming up that we will do some paving and stuff after they get this project done,” Porter said. “But that is in two separate budgets. It’s 6.3 million out of the 6.5 million that you approved.”

Porter said the county is just waiting for the contractor to finish another job before coming to the fairgrounds. This will be the first of two phases of dirt work. Porter said the ag arena barn and parking at the top right of the property would be left out for now

The one million dollars for paving is in the highway department budget for the roads. Porter has estimated a year-long completion that would prepare the site for construction.

In other business, County Commissioner Ben Rodgers elected as the commission chair Monday night. Rodgers returns as chair for the second time having served four years ago.

“I’m humbled and honored that you have put the faith in me to be the chair of this honorable commission,” Rodgers said. “I hope you consider it an honor to serve in this commission. We are a wonderful county. My hope for you is that you feel included and involved in this commission.”

Commissioner Chris Cassetty will serve as the vice-chair. Grover Bennett Jr. was appointed as parliamentarian. Vacancies in 15 other committee were filled without discussion throughout the commission meeting.