Putnam County Animal Services’ new Kitten/Cat Business Foster-to-Adoption Program is already proving to be a success, with eight, with another one pending, cats adopted in its first few weeks.

The program allows local businesses to partner with Animal Services to foster adoptable cats and kittens in their storefronts.

Putnam County provides the cat condo, supplies, and signage, while the businesses provide space and daily care. Customers are then able to meet the cats and adopt them directly on site.

Azalea City Brewing Company was among the first business to participate, and seven cats—Monkey, Rory, Gravy, Vern, Zion, Buttons and Harmony—have already found their forever homes through their location.

Eugene’s Tire & Auto also joined the program and recently celebrated the adoption of Jenni-fur.

This past week, a third business was set up, helping the program continue to grow.

With such a strong beginning, the Kitten/Cat Foster-to-Adoption Program is already creating meaningful connections between local businesses, community members, and the animals in need of loving homes.

Businesses interested in learning more about the program can contact Julianne Young at julianne.young@ putnam-fl.gov.

Floating Dock Installed at Palmetto Bluff Boat Ramp

The Palmetto Bluff Boat Ramp in Bostwick, located at 126 Boat Ramp Rd., recently received an upgrade with the completion of a new floating dock this month.

Approved by the Putnam County Board of County Commissioners at their May 27, 2025 meeting, the $11,301.98 project provides additional space for boaters to tie up their vessels while launching and loading watercraft.

Beyond making boating more convenient, the updated dock also enhances the experience for the many residents and visitors who use the ramp throughout the year for fishing, boating, and enjoying time on the water.

This improvement ensures the Palmetto Bluff Boat Ramp remains a safe, accessible, and valued recreation spot for the Bostwick community and beyond.

Summer Swim Season Wraps Up at the Putnam Aquatics Center

The 2025 summer season at the Putnam Aquatics Center has officially come to a close, marking another successful year of community programs and activities. This summer, 312 children participated in swim lessons, gaining valuable water safety skills and building confidence in the pool.

In addition to swim lessons, the Aquatics Center welcomed residents for adult lap swim and community swim sessions, making the pool a hub of fun, fitness, and community connection all summer long.

The PAC staff extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined in the 2025 season. Your participation helps make each summer memorable and keeps the Aquatics Center an important part of Putnam County.

A very special thank you goes to The Kiwanis Club of The Azalea City, Gator Pool Chemicals, and Beck Ford Lincoln for their generous financial support of the swim lessons program. Their contributions help ensure more children in our community have the opportunity to learn this essential life skill.

Putnam County Advances Plans to Revitalize Port Putnam

Putnam County is taking the next big step toward revitalizing Port Putnam. At their August 26 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a motion to support the submission of a $10 million federal grant application to help fund major infrastructure improvements at the port.

The proposed upgrades stem from the Port Development Plan, which was completed earlier this year thanks to a planning grant awarded to the county in 2022. The plan lays out essential improvements needed to transform Port Putnam into a fully functional cargo port. Among the top priorities are building a new bulkhead and creating cargo space to handle materials moving through the facility. The total estimated cost for these improvements is $15.2 million.

If awarded, the $10 million federal grant would be paired with funding commitments from the State of Florida and Putnam County:

Florida Department of Transportation: $1.9 million
Florida Seaports Transportation Economic Development: $1.375 million
Putnam County Port Authority/Board of County Commissioners: $2 million

Port Putnam has also gained attention at the federal level. On August 21, U.S. Representative Randy Fine visited the port and met with Port Manager Sam Sullivan and County Administrator Terry Suggs to learn more about the project and discuss its potential to boost economic opportunities for Putnam County.

With support from local, state, and federal partners, the county is positioning Port Putnam as an important piece of future economic growth for the community.

Employee Recognition

Employee of the Month of May: Doneda Cole

At the August 12, 2025 Board of County Commissioners meeting, we proudly recognized Doneda Cole, Project Manager in the Engineering Department, as Putnam County’s Employee of the Month for May.

Doneda is highly regarded for her extensive knowledge across all areas of Public Works, her willingness to lend a hand without hesitation, and her ability to develop creative solutions that keep projects moving efficiently. Known for her positivity, respectfulness, and dependable support, she is a valued resource for both her colleagues and the community.

Whether she’s answering questions, solving challenges, or stepping in to assist other departments, Doneda exemplifies teamwork and dedication.

Congratulations to Doneda on this well-deserved recognition!

Employee of the Month of June: Shawn Silver

At the August 26, 2025, Board of County Commissioners meeting, the Commission recognized Shawn Silver, Tradesworker with General Services, as the Employee of the Month for June.

Shawn was nominated for his exceptional performance and dedication to his work. He consistently completes tasks without complaint, identifies and addresses potential problems before they arise, and readily assists his coworkers by sharing his knowledge and skills. Shawn is also known for his professionalism, positive attitude, and clear communication with both coworkers and County staff.

His contributions have made him a great asset to the department, and his willingness to go above and beyond does not go unnoticed. Congratulations to Shawn on this well-deserved recognition.

Employee of the 2nd Quarter: Bryer Tilton

At the August 12, 2025 Board of County Commissioners meeting, Bryer Tilton, Budget Specialist with the Office of Budget & Management, was recognized as Putnam County’s Employee of the 2nd Quarter.

Bryer’s dedication and versatility shine through in everything he does—from guiding departments through the budget process to lending a hand on special projects, including assembling cat condos for the Cat/Kitten Business Foster Program. His calm demeanor, collaborative nature, and clear communication make him an invaluable member of the team.

We extend our thanks and congratulations to Bryer for his creativity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. His contributions make a meaningful difference for both our organization and the community we serve.

Meetings for the Week of September 7

September 9: Board of County Commissioners/Port Authority Meeting at 9 a.m. in the Board Room at 2509 Crill Ave, Suite 100, Palatka

September 10: Planning Commission at 4 p.m., in the Board Room at 2509 Crill Ave, Suite 100, Palatka.

September 11: Waterways & Trails at 11:30 a.m. in the Administration Conference Room, 2509 Crill Ave, Suite 200, Palatka

Contractor's Review Board at 5 p.m. in the Board Room at 2509 Crill Ave, Suite 100, Palatka

Meetings for the Week of September 14

September 16: Special Magistrate at 9 a.m., in the Board Room at 2509 Crill Ave, Suite 100, Palatka.

September 17: Zoning Board at 3 p.m. in the Board Room at 2509 Crill Ave, Suite 100, Palatka

Meetings for the Week of September 21

September 23: Board of County Commissioners Meeting at 9 a.m. in the Board Room at 2509 Crill Ave, Suite 100, Palatka