At its Nov. 18 meeting, the Panama City Commission approved a suite of budget and capital actions intended to advance infrastructure and public-safety projects.

Budget carryforwards: The commission approved FY2025 carryforward resolutions to move encumbered purchase orders and restricted revenues into FY2026. Staff explained the carryforwards reflect revenues received in 2025 (for example, restricted building-permit revenues and a CRA contribution), not new revenue, and that the entries will affect reserve accounting in the FY2026 books. Commissioners asked for a follow-up summary showing how the carryforwards affect reserves ahead of budget season.

School-safety grant: The commission authorized acceptance of a state-funded FDOT grant of $456,323 for planning the Panama City school-zone safety project related to Bay High School, which includes extension of 12th Street and right-of-way acquisition. The grant and associated budget amendment were approved 5-0.

FEMA road task orders: The commission approved two task orders with Dewberry (and partner firms) to provide engineering design services for post-arbitration FEMA road segments: one covering 287 segments ($256,500) and another covering 274 segments ($277,500). Staff said most services are 100% FEMA reimbursable or funded from infrastructure tax funds; commissioners approved both task orders (votes 5-0).

Specialized street sweeper: Staff recommended purchase of a specialized paver-safe multi-hog sweeper (approx. $218,340) to maintain Harrison Avenue pavers and other sidewalks/multi-use paths. Commissioners questioned the recurring maintenance, insurance and staffing costs, whether leasing or privatized services could serve the need, and whether the Downtown Improvement Board (DIB) should cost-share. The commission directed staff to issue an RFP for potential private providers and to consult the DIB for input rather than immediately approve the purchase; that motion passed 5-0.

Dump trucks: The commission approved purchase of three 16-yard dump trucks through a cooperative contract (approx. $429,799 with a $65,000 trade-in allowance) to replace aged units (17–26 years old). Staff said the fleet replacements are needed because parts for older units are hard to obtain.

What's next: Staff will provide a reserves/carryforward summary for the commission, proceed with the FDOT grant and FEMA task orders, issue an RFP for specialized sweeping services and return with proposals, and schedule any follow-up procurement for heavy equipment.