City of Panama City Town Hall 09/12/2026

The City of Panama City held a town hall meeting on September 12, 2026, focusing on various community and municipal issues. Key procurement-related discussions included updates on capital improvement projects such as the basketball court construction expected to be completed by the end of October, and ongoing infrastructure projects funded by SRF and CDBG-DR grants totaling approximately $300 million. The city manager clarified that additional project management staff were hired to support these large projects and that staffing levels would contract as projects wind down. There was also discussion about a potential transfer station feasibility study in partnership with the county, aimed at improving waste management efficiency, though opinions varied on its viability and funding. The meeting addressed zoning and development concerns, including a proposed zoning change to allow continued recycling operations with conditions for beautification and neighborhood impact mitigation. Additionally, the commission discussed strategies to improve pedestrian safety, including crosswalk enhancements and traffic calming measures, and the need for strategic planning to guide future budgeting and city development. Policy considerations for reducing impact fees on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to encourage affordable housing were also raised, with suggestions to streamline permitting processes and adopt pattern books for construction. No formal votes or contract awards were recorded during the meeting, but several action items and follow-up meetings were planned to address community concerns and project progress.