PANAMA CITY — The Panama City Commission on Tuesday will consider changes to its college education policy for city employees.
The city now offers to pay 75 percent of college courses for which a student receives a C grade or better. The course cost is based on the average class cost in 12 Florida universities.
A resolution would increase that figure to 90 percent for an A and 80 percent for a B, but decrease it to 70 percent for a C.
Another change would be a list of approved majors designed to help the city. For example chemistry, a required degree to work in city laboratories, would be approved along with majors such as engineering and public administration.
“It doesn’t have to be for that particular job,” City Manager Jeff Brown said. “Say a police officer likes math, wants to study engineering. Maybe they don’t want to be a police officer all my days. They can then transfer within the city.”
Brown said he has seen an increase in employees taking courses because of the city’s recent emphasis to hire more people with college degrees. He said about 24 employees are taking college courses now.
The program benefits the city because employees are bringing added skills and knowledge to their jobs. Employees benefit with future wage increases.
However, the policy includes a clause that allows the city to recoup some of the college spending if an employee takes a different job.
In another agenda item, St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club is asking for a $30,000 contribution from the city to recruit and promote the “A” Class Catamaran North American Championship Regatta.
St. Andrews Bay Yacht Club is a private organization. Brown said the city has had programs for tax rebates for years, including one for Boyd Brothers about eight years ago, but a direct contribution to private organization is new.
Brown added that a potential payment would come from funds collected through the recently formed tourist development committee. Mayor Greg Brudnicki on several occasions has mentioned using bed tax funds for boating events.
In other business, the commission will consider:
lThe development order for 11 Harrison Ave., owned by Michael Drew. Drew plans to renovate the building to include offices and a rooftop restaurant.
lA revamped emergency management plan for the city.
lThe first ordinance of the de-annexation of 1301 E. 11th St., James Auto Center. The Planning Board voted Nov. 3 against de-annexation. Brown said the situation is new to him in 21 years of municipal government experience.
lRezoning and land use for 1612 Louise Ave. to allow the property to be divided into three parcels.
The meeting is at 8 a.m. Tuesday at City Hall at 9 Harrison Ave.