CRA adopts FY2024–25 annual work plan and approves CRA socials to solicit community input on advisory boards

The Panama City Community Redevelopment Agency unanimously approved its fiscal year 2024–25 annual work plan on Jan. 27 and agreed to proceed with a series of district “CRA socials” in February to gather public input on whether to form advisory committees or expand the CRA board.

Staff explained the annual work plan was prepared to comply with updates to Florida statute 189.0694 (House Bill 7013) that require special districts to adopt goals, objectives and measurable performance standards. The approved work plan will be posted to the CRA website and discussed at the planned CRA district socials.

The board also considered a staff memorandum that analyzed three options for community engagement: forming advisory committees, expanding the CRA board by up to two members (statute limits expansion to two members), or implementing CRA socials (town-hall style events). Several public commenters and board members had objected to staff language in the memo that described advisory boards as potentially “self serving.” At the meeting staff apologized for any offense and said the phrase reflected a generalized concern identified in Florida Redevelopment Agency best-practice guidance.

After discussion the board voted to proceed with the CRA socials and directed staff to solicit input at each social about advisory committees and board expansion; staff will return the input to the CRA for further consideration at a subsequent meeting. The vote was unanimous.