During the recent City of Panama City Commission meeting, community concerns were raised regarding the distribution of funds aimed at revitalizing downtown businesses. A resident highlighted that millions of dollars are being allocated to a select group of businesses, which has sparked frustration among those who feel overlooked.

The resident pointed out that previous funding from FEMA, totaling over $10 million for hurricane recovery, had similarly benefited the same businesses, raising questions about equity in financial support. They expressed concern that some local business owners are not adhering to code enforcement laws, which they believe creates an unfair advantage and negatively impacts neighboring properties.

Additionally, the resident requested records on code enforcement cases in specific areas, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in how the city manages these issues. They also inquired about the financial returns from a marina management agreement with St. Joe, which has been in place for nearly a year, seeking clarity on how much revenue the city can expect from this partnership.

Another pressing issue discussed was the accumulation of cables on sidewalks, which the resident described as a safety hazard. They urged the commission to take action to address this ongoing problem, which has persisted for over six years.

The meeting also touched on concerns about the potential sale of city parks to balance the budget, with fears that such actions could diminish property values across the community. The resident warned against prioritizing certain businesses over others, suggesting that this approach could lead to long-term negative consequences for the city’s overall economic health.

As the commission continues to navigate these complex issues, residents are eager for clear communication and decisive action that reflects the needs and concerns of the entire community.