Bay County Planning Commission approves multiple zoning changes for commercial development

Bay County officials took significant steps towards community development during the Board of County Commissioners meeting on June 17, 2025, approving several key zoning changes and amendments aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and services.

One of the most notable decisions was the approval of a new cemetery project in Panama City Beach. The board unanimously supported the initiative, which aims to expand existing burial services to meet the growing demand in the area. The proposed cemetery will feature uniform, ground-level headstones, designed to resemble a park, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the site. This decision reflects the community's need for additional burial space, particularly as the population continues to grow.

In addition to the cemetery approval, the board also addressed a request for a land use change at 3320 Bradenton Avenue. The property, which has been used commercially for over 20 years, will now be officially designated as general commercial, aligning its zoning with its historical use. This change is expected to provide the property owner with the necessary compliance to continue operations without interruption.

Another significant zoning amendment was approved for a property located at 18725 Highway 231, transitioning its designation from agriculture to general commercial. This change will extend commercial use in the Fountain area, supporting local economic development while maintaining compliance with the Bay County comprehensive plan.

The board also considered a zoning change for a parcel at 8910 Front Beach Road, shifting its designation from public institutional to general commercial. This area, already predominantly commercial, will benefit from the increased flexibility in land use, further supporting local businesses.

Lastly, a proposed amendment for 2116, 2118, and 2110 Joan Avenue was discussed, which aims to change the land use from residential to neighborhood commercial. While the board recognized the potential for increased traffic and congestion in the area, particularly concerning gas stations, they opted to continue the discussion to the next meeting to allow for further public input and consideration of conditions to mitigate traffic impacts.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to addressing community needs while balancing growth and development with residents' concerns. As Bay County continues to evolve, these zoning changes are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the area, enhancing both economic opportunities and community services.