A staff member told the Clay County historical markers committee the state historical marker office is "awaiting the appointment of 2 members of our historical marker council" and is unable to proceed with new marker approvals, delaying some pending applications.

Committee members discussed county-level alternatives that could speed local recognition of sites. Staff described two general sign types: smaller roadside "quick blurb" markers intended to be legible from a road, and larger informational plaques or signs that can be placed adjacent to a building and include fuller narrative text. "If you want something like, say, for the Middleburg ... I can put this on the sign, this whole thing on the sign, and put it right next to their building," a staff member said, explaining differences in size and placement.

Members and attendees also discussed privately funded markers and local plaque programs similar to those used in other Florida communities. One committee member suggested exploring a county-level marker program in which private sponsors or local organizations could pay for markers when state approvals are delayed.

The committee also reviewed the county’s process for historic property designation and the role of certificates tied to renovation review. A staff speaker explained that a property owner must request Board of County Commissioners designation; if a property is designated, the committee would review proposed renovations for consistency with historic character. "The certificate is ... the description of the application that you all would be reviewing to see if that construction project is in keeping with the historic character of the property," the staff member said.

Committee members asked staff to research pricing and examples for county signs, plaques for private homes, and web-based background pages that could accompany markers. Staff noted that some local organizations (for example, the Middleburg Museum) have 501(c)(3) status and could help steward local markers. The committee did not adopt a new program at the meeting but directed staff to gather cost and design information for future consideration.