Bay County Board Approves $606K Transportation Grant and Multiple Service Contracts

The Bay County Board of County Commissioners convened on September 3, 2025, to discuss several key items on their agenda, focusing on community services, public safety, and infrastructure improvements.

One of the primary topics was the approval of a resolution for the Florida Commission for Transportation Disadvantaged Trip and Equipment Grant Agreement, which will provide $606,452 to support transportation services for disadvantaged residents. The board unanimously adopted the resolution, allowing the chairman to sign and execute the agreement.

Additionally, the board discussed the waiver of county fees for the Arden Blue Senior Apartment Development, which will be moved to the regular agenda for further consideration.

In matters related to health services, the board approved contracts with the Northwest Florida Health Network for both a lifeline drug treatment facility and a coordinated opioid recovery program. These contracts aim to enhance local health services and support recovery efforts in the community.

The board also authorized the sale of alcoholic beverages at an upcoming event at the Public Sports Park, contingent upon compliance with specific stipulations outlined in the attached resolution.

Further discussions included the authorization of a 911 state grant with the Florida Department of Management Services and the awarding of several contracts for grounds maintenance, portable toilet rental services, and professional architectural and engineering services. These contracts are intended to improve county facilities and services.

Lastly, the board approved the reimbursement of public safety expenditures to the Bay County Sheriff's Office and the City of Panama City Beach, funded through tourist development tax funds, to address increased public safety needs due to tourism.

The meeting concluded with a motion for approval of the consent agenda, which was passed unanimously by the commissioners. The decisions made during this meeting are expected to have a positive impact on community services and infrastructure in Bay County.