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Alan Branch sworn in as Panama City mayor; Robbie Hughes and Josh Street take commissioner oaths
Summary
Alan Branch was sworn in as mayor of Panama City during a City Hall ceremony where Commissioners Robbie Hughes and Josh Street also took their oaths. Speakers emphasized community service, resilience after storms and collaboration with city staff.
Mayor Alan Branch, Commissioner Robbie Hughes and Commissioner Josh Street were sworn into office during an inauguration ceremony at Panama City Hall's rotunda, where the oaths were administered by Chief Judge Christopher Patterson of Florida's 14th Judicial Circuit.
The ceremony formally installed Alan Branch as mayor and recognized newly elected Ward 1 Commissioner Robbie Hughes and Commissioner Josh Street. Judge Christopher Patterson administered the oaths to each official; each repeated the oath to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States, the State of Florida and the charter of the City of Panama City.”
The new officials used their remarks to stress service, local collaboration and resilience. Commissioner Robbie Hughes thanked campaign staff, volunteers and family and said he intends to bring a businesslike, information-driven approach to decision-making. “Standing here before you tonight, I am filled with immense gratitude, excitement for what lies ahead,” Hughes said, adding that he plans to gather information and “cast my vote” based on broad input.
Commissioner Josh Street framed the occasion as a collective responsibility. “This moment isn't about me. It's about us,” Street said, citing the city's repeated recoveries from tornadoes, floods and hurricanes and urging unity in moving the city forward.
Mayor Alan Branch said he loves the city and urged residents to take part in civic life. In remarks he said would be engraved on a City Hall plaque, Branch told residents, “You are a part of what makes this town special. A neighbor, a teacher, a business owner, a builder, a dreamer — you do not need a title like mayor or commissioner to shape this town.” He spoke about the city's recovery since Hurricane Michael and called for continued progress that benefits all parts of Panama City.
The ceremony included brief acknowledgments of first responders, military personnel and local officials in attendance and concluded with a rendition of “America the Beautiful.” City staff invited attendees to refreshments in the rotunda before adjourning.
No formal policy actions, votes or directives were taken during the ceremony; the event consisted of the oath administrations and inaugural remarks.
