Chater Review Advisory Board Meeting 03262026

The City of Panama City's Charter Review Advisory Board convened on March 26, 2026, to discuss various charter amendments and governance issues. Key procurement-related discussions included the review of elected officials' compensation structures, with comparisons to other Florida cities and counties, and considerations for formalizing salary adjustments through charter or ordinance. The board also examined the authority and structure of municipal boards, including the planning board's role and its statutory requirements, ultimately deciding to remove redundant charter language regarding the planning board. Significant deliberations focused on the financial oversight roles within the city government, debating whether the financial controller or CFO should be an independent officer reporting directly to the city commission or subordinate to the city manager. The board discussed the implications of these roles on fiscal accountability and transparency. Additionally, the meeting covered municipal taxation powers, emphasizing caution in modifying grandfathered tax provisions like the merchant license fee, and the regulation of municipal bonds, with consensus leaning toward minimal charter restrictions. The board also planned future agenda items, including compensation for elected officials and further refinement of financial officer roles. No direct contract awards or vendor selections were made during this meeting, but policy decisions discussed could influence future procurement and financial management practices.