Panama City Beach and Mexico Beach Witness Historic Elections

BAY COUNTY, FL - By 7:13PM all of the polls had reported, and the unofficial results were shown on the Bay County Supervisor of Elections website. The elections saw significant changes in both Panama City Beach and Mexico Beach, as voters made their voices heard on a range of issues and positions.

In Panama City Beach, Stuart Tettemer emerged victorious in the closely contested Mayor race, securing 57.61% of the vote. Incumbent Mark Sheldon received 42.39% of the votes.

In Mexico Beach, Mayor Michelle Miller was recalled by 62% of voters, paving the way for Richard Wolff to be elected with 58% of the vote. Wolff will now take on the responsibility of leading the city and addressing the concerns of the electorate.

Additionally, council members were elected in both Mexico Beach and Callaway. Jason Adams won in Mexico Beach for Group 4, while Tim Linderman won in Mexico Beach for Group 5. In Callaway, Bob Pelletier was re-elected as Commissioner of Ward 3, and Ken Ayers, Jr was re-elected as Commissioner of Ward 4.

In Mexico Beach several referendums were passed, including setting maximum building heights, changing the form of government, and adding the position of City Administrator, City Clerk, and providing for a runoff election.

The next election will be the Primary Elections in August 2024. Candidates interested in running for the various positions will have until Noon, June 10th through Noon, June 14th, 2024, to qualify. The ballot will include several key positions such as Clerk of Court, County Commissioner Districts 1, 3, and 5, County Judge Group 2, Property Appraiser, School Board Member Districts 1 and 4, Sheriff, Superintendent of Schools, Supervisor of Elections, Tax Collector, Beach Mosquito Control District Seat 1, 2, and 3, and Lake Powell Community Development District Seat 1, 3, and 4.

In an effort to provide comprehensive coverage of the upcoming Bay County elections, the Bay County Coastal will be featuring more candidate profiles in its politics section. Be sure to stay informed about the issues that matter to you, and don't hesitate to reach out to the candidates to ask about their stances and plans for the community.