Winds of Change

Mark it down. In the years ahead, we may view Tuesday May 15, 2007, as the day the future began in Bay County. But only if we take advantage of the opportunity before us.

On this day, Panama City elected a new mayor who has demonstrated a genuine concern for our community and our future. In my humble opinion, Scott Clemmons is a thoughtful problem solver, a person willing to listen to anyone and everyone, and most importantly, a person willing to put the good of the community ahead of anyone’s personal political agenda.

We need sound, visionary leadership right now, and I have confidence that Scott can bring Panama City together and really chart a course for our community’s future.

Ironically, on the same day that Scott was elected in a landslide, the Bay County Commission took the dramatic step of dismissing the TDC Board, citing the need to start again to ensure that all voices are heard in the debate over the future of tourism in Bay County.

In thinking about the TDC, I think it is vitally important to step away from whatever personality conflicts or personal grudges may exist. This is a time to consider what’s best for the entire county. A strong, thriving, united tourism industry is vital to our future.

We have to have a healthy, constructive debate about what kind of place we want Bay County to be.

I hope that we, as a community, can come together to discuss fully the opportunities before us. Let’s work to rise above the tensions of the past few months and collaboratively and pro-actively chart our future.

With change comes opportunity.