Mayor Rohan resigns after criticizing Panama City's leadership and fiscal management

The City of Panama City held a significant meeting on May 28, 2025, where key discussions centered around the approval of a parcel of land for parking expansion and farewell remarks from departing officials, including Mayor Rohan.

The meeting began with a proposal to approve a 0.45-acre lot intended for an adjacent business's parking expansion. Commissioners discussed the strategic importance of the location, emphasizing that it would serve the needs of the business while minimizing disruption to the surrounding area. The auctioneer's input indicated that the current price was favorable, suggesting that delaying the purchase could result in a lower sale price. The motion to approve the acquisition passed unanimously, reflecting a consensus on the necessity of the parking expansion.

Following the approval, Mayor Rohan delivered heartfelt farewell remarks, reflecting on his tenure and the challenges faced during his time in office. He expressed disappointment over the lack of support for his vision to revitalize the city’s marina and maintain public access to waterfront areas. Rohan criticized the commission's decision to allocate funds to the Martin Theater instead of pursuing a significant FEMA project that could have benefited the marina and the local economy.

Throughout his speech, Rohan highlighted issues of integrity and cooperation within the commission, noting personal attacks and political maneuvering that hindered progress. He lamented the city’s current fiscal challenges and urged future leaders to prioritize transparency and public service over personal interests.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored both immediate actions taken to support local business needs and the broader implications of leadership dynamics within the city. As Mayor Rohan steps down, his remarks serve as a call to action for the incoming officials to embrace a vision of integrity and community-focused governance.