The Panama City CRA on July 29 directed staff to forgo a full National Register historic structures report for the A.D. Harris Learning Village and approved proceeding with a Florida master site file application and a local historic marker.

Staff reported a historic preservation architect proposed a historic structures report for $22,500 plus $3,000 to complete the Florida master site file. After discussion, the board amended its motion to fund the Florida master site file (approximately $3,000) and proceed with the city’s local historic marker, scheduled for a dedication ceremony Sept. 13, 2025. The board voted 3‑0 to approve the Florida filing and local marker and to decline the larger HSR expense.

Board members said they preferred spending limited CRA funds on an accessible state designation and a public marker and also discussed that national listing has limited protective or financial benefits at the local level. Staff said the short‑term marker and Florida filing would be funded from existing CRA Downtown North funds.