Candidate's Statement - Allan Branch - Candidate for Mayor of Panama City

Allan Branch comes from a family with deep roots in Panama City, stretching back to the 1940s. His paternal grandparents, Jimmy and Lucille Branch, were local entrepreneurs who owned iconic businesses such as Tally Ho Drive-In, Jimmy’s Drive-In, The Chicken Box, and later Jimmy’s Car Wash, which became Speedy Car Wash.

On his maternal side, Allan’s grandfather, Yank Lanford, worked as a diesel mechanic for the City of Panama City and coached Little League baseball at Oakland Terrace. His grandmother, Alice Lanford, dedicated 35 years to teaching first grade at Panama Grammar, Cedar Grove Elementary, and Northside Elementary.

Allan’s parents, Jimmy and Alice Branch are Bay High School graduates (1971 & 1972). They were middle school teachers before taking over the family’s downtown Speedy Car Wash in the early 1980s.

Allan himself is a proud 1999 graduate of Bay High School and a member of the Bay High School Hall of Fame, joining his mother, who was inducted after being crowned homecoming queen in 1972. This family tradition continued with Allan’s sister, Lacy Branch Counts, who became homecoming queen and a Hall of Fame inductee in 2005.

Throughout Panama City, Allan and his wife, Anna, known for his efforts in downtown revitalization, have spearheaded projects that breathe new life into the city, including History Class Brewing Company, El Weirdo Tacopub, and The Sapp House. In addition to his work revitalizing the local community, Allan’s entrepreneurial journey spans over two decades of building software companies, employing thousands of people, and refining his leadership and organizational skills.

While Allan’s family legacy is a proud part of his story, he firmly believes it does not make his ideas more important than those of someone who just moved to Panama City. To him, every voice matters in shaping the community’s future. Allan is committed to creating an inclusive environment where long-time residents and newcomers feel heard and valued.

His decision-making approach is shaped by years of experience. He has built and managed customer support and sales departments, collaborated with diverse teams, and led organizations within budget constraints. Allan knows how to communicate a vision, answer questions with humility, and make thoughtful decisions that prioritize the well-being of all citizens.

Allan Branch is ready to build a Panama City that reflects its rich history while embracing innovation and progress. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels they belong and have a stake in its success.

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(Bay County Coastal does not endorse candidates.)