Municipal Super Tuesday Election Results: Lynn Haven, Mexico Beach, and Panama City

by Janet Pattison

BAY COUNTY, FL – Polls closed at 7 p.m. on this Municipal Super Tuesday, and the election results are in for Lynn Haven, Mexico Beach, and Panama City. Voters across Bay County turned out to decide on key municipal offices and non-binding referenda, with some races heading to a runoff on May 20.
Lynn Haven: Commission Seats and Referenda
In the race for Lynn Haven Commission Seat 3, incumbent Jamie Warrick secured a decisive victory with 62.14% of the votes, retaining the seat.
The contest for Lynn Haven Commission Seat 4 was closely fought, with no candidate achieving the required 50% plus one vote to win outright. A runoff election is scheduled for May 20 between the top two vote-getters:

  • Judy Tinder: 49.27% 1,413 votes
  • Jeff Snyder: 27.75%  796 votes
  • Jamie Marler: 22.98%  659 votes
Lynn Haven voters also weighed in on three non-binding referenda, which serve as advisory measures for city leaders:

  • Re-Establishment of City Library: 80.17% voted no, indicating strong opposition to reinstating a standalone city library.
  • Regional Library Partnership: 65.77% voted yes, showing support for exploring a collaborative library system.
  • Creation of City Zoning Map: 54.85% voted no, reflecting a slight majority against formalizing a new zoning framework.

As these referenda are non-binding, final decisions rest with Lynn Haven’s city leadership.
Mexico Beach: Council Member Elected, Other Races Unopposed
In Mexico Beach, Erik Fosshage was elected as Council Member Group 2, filling the seat with a clear mandate from voters. The positions of Mayor and Group 3 Council Member were unopposed, ensuring continuity in those roles.  
Panama City: New Mayor, Incumbent Win, and a Runoff
Panama City saw a significant shift in leadership, with Allan Branch, a local businessman campaigning on progress and forward-thinking, defeating incumbent Michael “Doc” Rohan for Mayor. Branch secured a commanding 69% of the vote, signaling strong voter support for his vision.
In the race for Panama City Commissioner Ward 4, incumbent Josh Street won another term with 69.7% of the vote, reinforcing his position as a trusted representative.
The Panama City Commissioner Ward 1 race was too close to call, with no candidate securing a majority. A runoff election on May 20 will decide the winner.

  • Robbie Hughes 45.99%  1,130
  • Daniel Schultz   27.75%   796
  • Edward Young   25.97%   638

Voters also considered a non-binding referendum on Beach Drive improvements, which would involve state-funded grants for pedestrian, stormwater, and environmental enhancements. The measure narrowly passed with 52.8% in favor (3,151 votes for, 2,820 against), though city leaders will make the final decision.
Looking Ahead
The results reflect a mix of continuity and change across Bay County’s municipalities, with runoffs in Lynn Haven and Panama City set to determine key leadership roles. The non-binding referenda provide insight into voter priorities, though city officials will have the final say. Stay tuned for updates as the May 20 runoffs approach.
For more information, visit the Bay County Supervisor of Elections website at www.bayvotes.org.