News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The Putnam County Commissioners voted Monday to move forward with a request for proposals to oversee the jail expansion.
A construction manager would oversee and direct the expansion project. Commissioners gave County Mayor Randy Porter authorization to request proposals and begin negotiations on an agreement.
Judge Doug McKenzie of the Corrections Committee called the RFP the next logical step in keeping the jail project moving forward.
Sheriff Eddie Farris said COVID and COVID concerns about revenue remain prominent with the expansion’s next steps. No money will be spent with the Monday night decision.
“We just wanted to continue moving, moving the ball down the road,” Farris said.
Farris said he hoped to have a construction manager in place within 60 to 90 days. The commission also authorized the continuation of professional services with the project’s architect.
“It’s a request for information basically is what it is,” Commission Chair Mike Atwood said. “So he will be searching for that and also that he has the authority to negotiate with our architects to come back and present to us what additional funds will be needed then.”
Commissioners also approved the appointment of Cookeville Chamber CEO Amy New to the Nashville Eastern Railroad Authority. Commissioners met virtually based on last week’s increase in COVID cases.
