In a recent meeting of the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners, significant discussions centered around the management and development of the Endeavor Industrial Park, a 600-acre site that is currently undergoing various projects. Among these is the ongoing "Project Blue Sky," which is in its design phase, and another initiative referred to as "Project 1 Jaws."

A key topic of the meeting was a proposed lease agreement with local cattle operator Janssen Lord, who expressed interest in leasing a portion of the property known as the old Mooneyham Farm. The county has opted not to sell this land, recognizing its value for industrial development. Instead, the agreement would allow Lord to lease approximately 300 acres, which he would clear and convert into pasture land. This arrangement is seen as beneficial for both parties, as it addresses the need for land clearing while maintaining the county's rights for future development.

The proposed lease terms include a 30-year duration, with the county retaining the option to terminate the lease if a development project arises. Lord would pay $15 per acre annually, totaling $4,500, while the county would reimburse him $2,000 per acre for the clearing costs. This reimbursement would decrease over time, incentivizing the county to utilize the land for development sooner rather than later.

Commissioners noted that the current state of the land is a "jumbled mess," making it difficult to showcase to potential businesses. By converting it back to pasture land, the county aims to enhance its appeal for future industrial projects. The discussions highlighted the importance of balancing agricultural interests with economic development needs, as the county seeks to attract new businesses while supporting local agricultural operations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's proactive approach to land management and economic development, with plans to finalize the lease agreement in the upcoming commission session. This strategy not only aims to improve the land's usability but also positions Jackson County to respond effectively to future industrial opportunities.