The most significant issue at the meeting was the public’s reaction to Chief Ramie’s conduct. Numerous residents took to the podium during the public commentary segment, expressing dissatisfaction with the Chief of Police. Accusations of abuse of power and violations of employee handbook policies were mentioned, with some individuals calling for his removal. The impact of these allegations on the morale of the Police Department and the community’s trust in law enforcement was evident in the passionate testimonies.

The Mayor and commissioners addressed the situation, emphasizing the importance of due process. The debate extended to the handling of the situation by the city commissioners and the city manager.

Aside from the controversy surrounding the police chief, the commission dealt with the revocation of a tax exemption for ACMT South LLC. The company’s failure to meet job creation and property improvement requirements led to a quasi-judicial public hearing where the revocation was deliberated. A resident raised the issue of the lack of annual compliance reports and questioned the amount of money being returned to the city. The commission approved the motion to revoke the tax exemption.

Another point of discussion was the M Branch Drive connector, a new Bay County Connector Road. A project engineer provided details regarding the road’s location, dimensions, and its intended purpose, mentioning the Planning Commission’s unanimous approval of the project. The discourse touched upon permit fees and the county’s responsibility for road maintenance, but the meeting concluded without a definitive resolution to the concerns raised.

In addition to these matters, the City Commission addressed various community initiatives. Updates were given on partnerships with an elementary school for a Spring Fling event, the start of an adult basketball league, resumption of tree giveaways, and coordination with League Baseball for a children’s camp. The City Attorney briefed on work with the State Office of Flood Plain Management to update flood plain regulations, showing proactive measures in environmental management and infrastructure planning.

The meeting also saw acknowledgment of the Commission’s participation in local events, such as the 50th Anniversary at Mosley.