Mayor Branch proposes virtual town halls to improve citizen engagement in city meetings

Public engagement took center stage at the recent Panama City Commission meeting, where discussions revolved around the new approach to public comments and community involvement. Mayor Branch emphasized the need for a shift in how citizens can voice their concerns, aiming to enhance accessibility and responsiveness from city officials.

The mayor proposed moving public comment sessions to Saturday town halls, allowing residents to engage in discussions without the constraints of weekday schedules. "Most people at 08:00 on a Tuesday are working or driving kids to soccer practice," he noted, highlighting the challenges many face in attending meetings. The goal is to foster earlier discussions on agenda items, ensuring that community feedback is integrated into decision-making processes before votes are cast.

This initiative has sparked mixed reactions among residents. While some, like Brian Taylor, praised the decision to limit comments to agenda-related topics, others expressed concerns about the potential stifling of free speech. One resident argued that limiting speaking time infringes on constitutional rights, emphasizing the importance of allowing citizens to voice their opinions fully.

The commission also addressed ongoing issues related to city infrastructure and accountability in spending. Residents voiced frustrations over unresolved problems, particularly regarding drainage and maintenance, urging the city to prioritize transparency in how taxpayer money is utilized.

As the city moves forward with these changes, the mayor remains optimistic about increasing community participation. "If no one shows up or only a few people attend, that’s a failure of this idea," he stated, underscoring the importance of citizen engagement in shaping the future of Panama City. The next steps will involve monitoring attendance and feedback from the upcoming town halls to assess the effectiveness of this new approach.