Stuart Tettemer Aims to Put Locals First in Panama City Beach Mayoral Race

Stuart Tettemer has thrown his hat into the ring for the position of Mayor of Panama City Beach (PCB), championing the cause of "Putting Locals First." Tettemer's entry into local politics was sparked by concerns over the city's plans for the Front Beach Road expansion, particularly the proposal to replace beach parking with red bus lanes.

"I believe PCB needs parking and roads that align with our unique culture, not a generic plan borrowed from big cities in central Florida like Tampa," Tettemer asserted. The city's plan to replace convenient beach parking with paid lots and bus access, in his view, lacks practicality. He emphasized that residents and tourists are unlikely to opt for paid parking lots and bus rides, as indicated by the city's own parking and mobility survey.

Tettemer's campaign focuses on four key pillars:

1. Better Parking and Traffic Management: Tettemer proposes replacing bus lanes with infrastructure like parallel beach parking or protected low-speed vehicle lanes, aiming to enhance parking options and alleviate traffic congestion.

2. Local Parks for Community Building: Tettemer advocates for the promotion of local parks to foster neighborhood communities and utilize them for stormwater mitigation.

3. Environmental Concerns - Stop Gulf Pump and Dump: Tettemer urges the abandonment of plans to dump stormwater into the Gulf, emphasizing the potential hazards it poses to beachgoers after heavy rains and the future cost of removal.

4. City and Neighborhood Collaboration: Tettemer seeks to develop programs that facilitate easy collaboration between neighborhoods and the city, fostering ongoing relationships and discussions to address local needs.

Born and raised in Kissimmee, FL, Tettemer brings a unique perspective having experienced both sides of tourist development. A Cornell University graduate with a Master's degree in Computer Science, Tettemer has a professional background in technology, having worked with companies like Amazon, Pinterest, and Elasticsearch.

Facing an incumbent with substantial financial backing, Tettemer acknowledges the challenge but remains optimistic. He stresses the importance of balancing tourism with local needs, emphasizing that both can benefit from thoughtful city programs. Residents and small businesses have shown initial support for Tettemer's campaign, and he encourages further backing through neighborhood meet-and-greets or financial contributions via Venmo or Cash App to "StuartForPCBMayor."

For more information or to support Tettemer's campaign, contact StuartForPCB@gmail.com or follow the "Stuart Tettemer For Panama City Beach Mayor" Facebook page.

(Bay County Coastal does not endorse candidates.)