Bay County officials are moving forward with plans to seek national designation for the St. Andrew and St. Joe Estuary Program, a decision that could bring significant benefits to the region. During the Board of County Commissioners meeting on June 3, 2025, County Manager Mike highlighted the importance of this initiative, noting that while there are many advantages, some commissioners have raised questions that need to be addressed.

The county is currently gathering information to support this designation, with input from experts, including Dr. Jessica Graham, who was present at the meeting. The commissioners discussed the need for further dialogue on the estuary program, emphasizing the importance of collective input from all board members. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that all concerns are addressed before moving forward.

The county manager proposed placing this topic on future meeting agendas to facilitate ongoing discussions and gather additional insights. This step is crucial as only two commissioners currently serve on the estuary board, limiting broader participation in the decision-making process.

As the county seeks to enhance its environmental initiatives, the potential national designation could lead to improved conservation efforts and increased funding opportunities. The board's commitment to thorough discussion and information gathering reflects a proactive approach to environmental stewardship in Bay County.