The Gulf County Commission voted to table action on a business‑license request from Thomas Montgomery, an applicant for a land‑based fishing charter that would operate shore‑based shark and surf fishing trips. Commissioners cited public‑safety concerns and the need for additional public input; the item will be considered at an upcoming tourism/TDC workshop.

Montgomery told the commission he runs land‑based fishing trips in Panama City and had inquiries from Gulf County visitors and renters who wanted to book shore‑based trips. “We begin our trip starting at 7PM or 07:30PM ish, depending on how crowded the beaches are,” he said, noting he avoids crowded daytime hours.

Commission discussion: Commissioners raised safety and beach‑use concerns, citing swimmers, children and tourist activity on the beaches. One commissioner said he was “not ready to open that up right now” and asked for more constituent input. The county attorney and staff reviewed prior ordinance language governing beach vendors and vendor permits, noting the county has authority to regulate beach vendor activities seaward of mean high water and has previously restricted permanent installations and certain beach vending.

Public comment included safety warnings. Christy McElroy, a member of the public, urged caution: “You put a garbage can out full of tasty treats, you're gonna draw in bears. Same thing with the gator, same thing with the shark.” Other commenters urged not to introduce a commercial land‑based operation where children swim.

Formal action: Commissioner Pridgen moved to table consideration of the business license until the county’s tourism/TDC workshop; the motion was seconded by Commissioner McCrone and passed by the board. Commissioners and staff suggested the tourism workshop would include rental‑property and beach‑use topics and provide time for public input and more research on hours, locations and insurance requirements.

Why it matters: The decision balances commercial use of public beaches, public safety and tourism policy. Staff flagged local ordinance language that allows the county to regulate vending and services on the beach and to condition permits based on location, public‑safety impacts and leave‑no‑trace rules.

Next steps: The commission will discuss the matter at its tourism/TDC workshop and notify the public when it is advertised. Montgomery said he carries insurance and can adjust hours if required; staff will gather comparative practices from neighboring coastal jurisdictions prior to the workshop.