The City of Panama City’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meeting on May 2, 2025, highlighted a significant push for improved community engagement and transparency in redevelopment efforts. A key discussion centered around enhancing the partnership with World Changers, an organization aimed at assisting residents with applications for community programs.
Michelle Webb, a CRA program manager, emphasized the need for better communication and support for residents, noting that past efforts had seen applications lost and residents unaware of their approval status. “My ask is having that partnership with the community and an organization within the community that could help navigate that,” she stated, advocating for a smoother process moving forward. The CRA is set to collaborate with World Changers to increase outreach, including participation in local events like the Glenwood Farmers Market and direct mail campaigns to residents.
In addition to this partnership, the CRA discussed the effectiveness of their social events as a primary public engagement strategy. A detailed memorandum presented during the meeting recommended continuing these CRA socials, which have proven to be inclusive and effective in gathering community input on redevelopment projects. This approach aims to ensure broad participation while avoiding the limitations of traditional government structures.
The board unanimously approved the motion to adopt these strategies, reinforcing the CRA's commitment to fostering community involvement and addressing residents' needs. As the CRA moves forward, the anticipated outcomes include a more engaged citizenry and targeted redevelopment initiatives that reflect the community's priorities.