Atlanta Skydive’s lease extension with Polk County is apparently a dead issue following weeks of public comment and discussion.

In January, the board voted not to renew the lease that ends April 7. The vote became a hot button issue when the public formed opinions — both pro and con. Petitions were circulated, letters written and talks given at meetings. Hopes were that the item would be placed on the agenda this past Tuesday night. That did not happen.

Commissioners have taken a firm stance against the lease extension even for an additional two years, which was proposed by Tyler Lawson, manager of the Skydive Center.

Vice Chairman Cleve Hartley, chairman of the Airport Committee, indicated the subject is a dead issue.

Chairman Marshelle Thaxton said misinformation had been circulated among interested residents. “We have not voted for the skydivers to leave Polk County,” he said. “As far as I am concerned, we don’t want to lose them as a business.”

He pointed out that the group is operating a private enterprise on public property.

“How can we tell another taxpayer who wants to open a business on county-owned property no when we already have someone doing it?” he asked.

Meanwhile, Lawson said he is looking at options for Atlanta Skydive. He hopes to find property near the current location and mentioned no plans to leave Polk County.

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