Pulaski County commissioners voted to authorize a survey and potential subdivision of the Old County Farm parcel as staff explored options to facilitate housing development without committing large utility‑extension costs.

Nathan, who led the discussion, told commissioners that the county lost its tenant at the Old County Farm and has been offered a potential land swap with the Galbraith family to secure land on the north side of Winamac that could be more usable for housing. “I would like the authorization to have that county farm parcel surveyed and split... and the title transferred to the redevelopment commission so that it could be used in the land swap if we get to that point,” he said.

Why it matters: Staff said the county has a tentative $1,000,000 grant offer to support a housing development, but that the grant carries expectations of up to $4,000,000 in matching funds from local government and private partners. Commissioners expressed concern about the county’s match burden and discussed alternative piecemeal infill approaches to reduce utility extension costs.

Details and next steps: Nathan recommended splitting the parcel so the redevelopment commission could hold the south portion and the county keep roughly 30 acres around the transfer station and north parcels. Commissioners authorized staff to proceed with a survey, noting survey lead times (six to seven months) and asked staff to present refined options at the mid‑December meeting. One commissioner said leasing the land to a farmer temporarily while the swap is considered would be prudent.

Outcome: Motion to authorize Nathan to pursue the survey passed by voice vote; staff will return with survey results and options for bidding or leasing before taking further action.