On February 19, the Putnam County Board of County Commissioners took an important step toward strengthening state partnerships and highlighting the community’s progress by hosting the inaugural Putnam Day at the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee. Commissioners Leota Wilkinson, JR Newbold, Joshua Alexander, Larry Harvey, and Walter Pellicer II, joined by County Administrator Terry Suggs, Deputy County Administrators Julianne Young and JR Grimes, and county executive directors and staff, represented Putnam County and showcased the key initiatives, opportunities, and partnerships shaping the county’s future.

The event connected state elected officials, legislative staff, and agency representatives with insights into Putnam County’s steady growth, economic development initiatives, infrastructure upgrades, and key community priorities. Sponsored by local businesses and community partners, Putnam Day offered a prime opportunity to build stronger ties with state leaders while advocating for projects and programs that deliver real benefits to residents.

Special remarks from former State Representative Bobby Payne, alongside current officials Representative Judson Sapp and Senator Tom Leek, emphasized the value of local-state collaboration in supporting rural communities and driving sustainable growth.

Local governments, businesses, and community organizations fueled the event’s success through informational booths that highlighted Putnam County’s diverse strengths. Participants included the City of Palatka, Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Office, HCA Florida Putnam Hospital, Georgia-Pacific, SMA Healthcare, and several other partners—each showcasing the county’s economic vitality, healthcare resources, workforce opportunities, and quality of life.

Putnam Day was a key milestone in elevating Putnam County on the state stage, showcasing the powerful collaboration among public agencies, private industry, and community stakeholders. Backed by strong local support and enthusiastic engagement from state leaders, the inaugural event proved a resounding success and laid the groundwork for ongoing advocacy and partnerships ahead.