Commission approves downtown infrastructure grant amendment, bulletproof vest grant and appointments

At the June 9 meeting the commission approved several routine but substantive budget and personnel items:

1) CDBG-DR grant amendment (M0168): The commission approved a budget amendment to accept a $3.5 million increase to a Community Development Block Grant—Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) award for downtown infrastructure repairs. The amendment extends the downtown area coverage and funds the replacement of approximately 2,300 linear feet of water line, 2,400 linear feet of sewer line, 2,600 linear feet of storm line, and paving on portions of West Beach Drive and Malberry Avenue. Staff noted successful prior execution of projects helped secure additional funds from the Florida Department of Commerce; the resolution and authority to sign the grant amendment were approved 5-0.

2) Bulletproof vest partnership grant: The commission approved acceptance of the Patrick Leahy bulletproof vest partnership award (2025) totaling $17,290; the program reimburses 50% of eligible ballistic vest purchases. The city will transfer $8,645 from the general fund to meet the required 50% match so the department can replace expiring vests. The motion passed 5-0.

3) Appointments: The commission elected Commissioner Josh Street as mayor pro tem for June 9, 2026–June 8, 2027 (5-0) and appointed Austin Clanjack to the Panama City Housing Authority to fill a term expiring June 11, 2030 (5-0).

These items were presented as staff recommendations and passed by unanimous votes; the commission asked staff to clarify specific packet percentages cited by a public commenter and to report back as needed.