Central Panhandle Association of Realtors addresses affordable housing concerns in Walton County

The City of Panama City held a meeting on July 12, 2025, focusing on discussions surrounding affordable housing and associated fees. The meeting featured contributions from various stakeholders, including local officials and representatives from the Central Panhandle Association of Realtors.

The session began with a discussion on the importance of collaboration with Bay County to address housing needs. A participant highlighted the significant price range for homes in the area, noting that properties in Walton County can sell for between $750 to $1,000 per square foot, emphasizing the high demand for affordable housing.

Katie Albritton, CEO of the Central Panhandle Association of Realtors, expressed gratitude towards the commissioners and staff for their ongoing discussions over the past seven months. She acknowledged the concessions made regarding residential needs and the pressing issue of affordable housing. Albritton raised concerns about the proposed fees, questioning how the city would manage any future adjustments to these fees if they were set to zero. She sought clarity on the public notification process and opportunities for community input regarding potential fee changes.

In response, officials outlined the procedural steps that would be taken if the fees were to be revisited. They confirmed that any changes would require multiple meetings, including a planning board review and two readings at a city commission meeting, ensuring proper public notice and input.

The conversation also touched on the complexities of establishing a consistent fee structure across different types of businesses, such as vape shops and gas stations. Albritton emphasized the need for a systematic approach to address these issues, suggesting that focusing on specific areas might simplify the process.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the challenges ahead in tackling housing affordability and the need for continued dialogue among stakeholders. The city officials indicated that further discussions would be necessary to develop a comprehensive strategy moving forward.