Commissioners back moving forward with HMGP grant to rebuild Roddy Road — staff to accept funding if agreement arrives

Putnam County commissioners voted to proceed with a pending HMGP grant for Roddy Road reconstruction after public-works staff reported additional funds may cover the county match, making the project effectively 100% grant-funded if the funding agreement is executed.

Director of Public Works Mr Stout said the county had applied for an HMGP grant under disaster-relief funds and the application reached the final stages with a 75/25 split. Subsequent identification of leftover funds from a previous disaster could cover the 25% match, he said, so the board would likely be able to proceed without local tax dollars if the funding agreement is finalized.

Commissioners discussed public purpose considerations, neighborhood impacts and the fact the project would replace infrastructure damaged in a storm. Commissioner Pelasier called the opportunity "a no-brainer" because the county would not need local dollars. Commissioner Harvey praised staff for pursuing additional funding and saving taxpayer money. The board unanimously approved a motion to move forward with the project and to accept the funding agreement when it arrives.

Staff thanked emergency-management and public-works personnel for preparing the application and said additional grant activity was expected soon.