Village Park is getting a putting green.

  The Fairview Road facility will soon see it installed in a 10,000-square-foot designated area at a cost of $145,000 after an affirmative vote by the Henry County Board of Commissioners at its May 7 regular meeting. The purchase is from Synthetic Turf International.

  The nylon putting green surface will be about 4,950 square feet with hole locations to be finalized on site, according to a staff report that also listed various specifications regarding type of turf and other amenities. The project is being funding with impact fees.

  Parks and Recreation director Tim Coley pointed out that the facility will be a positive addition for area youth such as those in summer programs.

  “This will be a great benefit to the community, and the local school golf programs as well,” said Commissioner Bruce Holmes, who made the motion to finalize the purchase for the new feature being located in his district.

  Coley presented a separate agenda item to the board regarding a lease agreement for mowers and personnel to handle maintenance at parks and athletic facilities. The request was for 10 mowers and five workmen through an agreement with Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation, a regional company. Coley said the actual equipment would come from and be serviced by Campbell, a local dealer in Henry County, but the agreement involved Pate because it is a state contract. The price is $156,660.73 and the monthly lease payment is $3,404.01 for 48 months.

  Several commissioners questioned whether all possible local vendors had the opportunity to bid under the procurement system being used, and it was suggested that county staff approach the current vendor to ask for a one-month extension while the new contract is bid out.   A motion was made to request the extension and have staff bring back an enhanced procurement process to get more local participation. The matter was tabled to the May 21 meeting.