Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Panama City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in parks rec with medium priority
Tennis and pickleball courts: Oakland Terrace is shot, Marigas property floated
Mayor Branch asked about converting the Martin Theatre rec center's basketball court or finding new tennis/pickleball locations after Oakland Terrace's courts were declared beyond repair. The board discussed building new courts at the old Americas (Marigas) property behind the wastewater treatment plant — which can't support vertical construction but works fine for courts — and possibly adding parking and food-truck electrical there.
Cemetery Care and Proposed Cemetery Trust Fund
Commissioners want a dedicated trust fund and possibly a Cemetery Board to fix chronic maintenance problems at city cemeteries, with staff researching funding and how some cemeteries came under city control.
Truesdale Park rebuilding donations
Hurricane Michael wiped out the old playground when the lot became a parking area — now $288,154 in CRA money buys new equipment for ages 2-12 with AstroTurf surfacing. One resident objected that the neighborhood skews elderly.
Truesdale Clubhouse renovation pace
A resident urged the board to finish the Truesdale Building renovation within 13 months. Exterior plans are about 90% complete and bid documents should go out within weeks; HRP grant rules may prevent simultaneous interior and exterior work.