Putnam County Board rejects enterprise zone expansion after split votes

The Putnam County Board voted down two measures to expand the Bureau/Putnam enterprise zone during a special meeting on July 6, 2026.

Board member Luke Holly moved to approve an ordinance amending Ordinance 2015-O-05 to expand the enterprise zone; Floyd Holocker seconded. The motion failed on a board tally of 1 aye, 2 nays and 1 abstain, and a subsequent motion to approve an addendum to the Bureau Putnam Area (2017) Enterprise Zone intergovernmental agreement failed by the same margin. The meeting was chaired by Charlie Lenkaitis.

The measures drew extensive public comment. Resident Sherri Miscovich urged a no vote, saying, "Not in favor of Enterprise Zone – Schools need this money – Not forced to be here – One step away from a data center," and several other residents raised concerns about school tax revenue, safety, and including conservation parcels in a zone intended for industrial uses. Brian Code, speaking in support, said he has known the Marquis family for many years and described them as "first class."

During discussion, board members asked staff and outside consultants to clarify tax impacts. Kevin Linderman of NCICG told the board that abatements apply to improvements, not to land, and that land taxes continue to be paid. Marquis representatives emphasized local reinvestment.

Because the motions failed, no ordinance amendment or addendum was adopted at the meeting. The board did not reach a consensus to send the proposed changes forward; next procedural steps were not specified at the meeting.