Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Panama City public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in water utilities with medium priority
Stormwater Master Plan grant
Several 'parks' are actually stormwater properties. Commissioners want a stormwater utility funding mechanism so shifting parks like Laney Row to Public Works doesn't just drain the general fund — and floated selling stormwater credits.
Water storage tank grant
The city accepted $650K in state money to design a 5-million-gallon water tank supporting the port, SweetBay growth and Tyndall, chipping in $650K of its own surtax money.
Millville wastewater generator funding increase
A $1.28 million boost to the state grant for a new backup generator at the Millville Wastewater Treatment Plant — critical for keeping sewage treatment running during outages.
Wastewater effluent removal deadline
By 2032, the city must stop discharging treated wastewater to the bay, requiring deep well injection, reuse, or wetland recharge.
Home rule powers for public utilities
Replacing the long Public Utilities article with one broad paragraph gives the city all powers not expressly prohibited by law — covering water, sewer, and services beyond city limits. Supporters liked it as a guard against state preemption; the city attorney will confirm nothing is lost.
Cross connection control and consent order compliance
Staff reported the city met its state consent order deadline for the backflow prevention program, avoiding fines, and pitched alternatives to locking meters — like fines in lieu of shutoffs. Builders and new homeowners have been getting bitten when the wrong meter is connected.