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Commission approves voluntary home buyouts for repeatedly flooded properties under Hurricane Sally program
Summary
The Panama City Commission authorized the city manager to execute purchase agreements for properties selected under the Hurricane Sally voluntary home buyout program, using state DEO funds to remove repeatedly flooded homes from high‑risk areas.
The Panama City Commission voted June 10 to authorize purchase and sale contracts for parcels in the voluntary home buyout program funded through the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) for Hurricane Sally recovery.
City staff said the city signed a subrecipient agreement with DEO on Dec. 18, 2023, to administer buyouts in targeted flood‑prone neighborhoods. "This represents the last of some of the most frequently flooded homes in the city," a commissioner said during discussion, noting many properties on the list had been flooded repeatedly.
Why it matters: Voluntary buyouts permanently remove structures from areas that have experienced repetitive flooding, often converting the land to open space or floodplain conservation. For property owners, buyouts can offer market value for homes that are otherwise difficult to insure or sell.
Process and approvals: Staff recommended that the commission approve executing purchase contracts for the parcels, subject to final approval by DEO. The commission approved the recommendation by recorded vote (5–0), authorizing the city manager to sign the contracts.
Funding and next steps: A city disaster‑recovery project manager told commissioners there are still funds available for additional buyouts and encouraged referrals for repetitive‑loss properties. Contracts require DEO concurrence before closing, and staff will coordinate relocations and use of available relocation assistance funds.
