Putnam County Port Authority amends proposed DV Civil laydown lease, raises monthly rent to $1,500

Putnam County commissioners convened as the Port Authority on April 14 and amended a proposed lease for contractor DV Civil to use roughly 10 acres as a laydown yard. The board voted to remove county responsibility for utilities and change the monthly rent to $1,500.

The proposal brought by staff described the site as a largely vacant parcel used previously as a laydown area. A county staff member said, “This is just vacant land,” noting there are no structures and no sewer or utilities currently on the parcel.

Commissioner Alexander pressed for parity with local lessees and cautioned that the county should not shoulder costs for trash or sewage if the tenant changes uses. “I don't want us paying for their garbage, and I don't want us paying for their sewage,” Alexander said during debate, urging an amendment to exclude utilities from landlord responsibility.

Commissioner Newbold and Commissioner Harvey recommended clarifying the amount of usable cleared acreage within the 10‑acre parcel and ensuring any improvements—security fencing, access, and road repairs—are the lessee's responsibility. Staff said they would revise the lease language and return with negotiated terms if the board wanted a different price or additional protections.

The motion to amend the lease to exclude utilities and set rent at $1,500/month was made, seconded and approved by voice vote. Commissioners directed staff to refine the lease to show the usable acreage to be used for laydown and to document provisions for roadway repairs and security improvements.

Next steps: staff will return with revised lease language reflecting the board’s direction and with further negotiation results if needed.