Tommy Hamm: Proven Leadership for a Stronger Bay County

As your current District 1 Bay County Commissioner and Chairman of the Commission, I, Tommy Hamm, have been honored to serve our community through some of the most challenging times in our history. With your support, we've faced and overcome the devastation of Hurricane Michael, the trials of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the threats posed by wildfires and tornadoes. My leadership has been grounded in proven results, commitment, and a deep understanding of our community's needs. During my tenure, I led the County’s response to Hurricane Michael, securing funding for recovery and rebuilding efforts. My experience navigating FEMA and state aid has ensured our community receives the support needed to rebuild stronger than ever. Understanding the limits and powers of a county commissioner is crucial. My opponents' goals often overreach, venturing into areas beyond this office's scope. As your Commissioner, I focus on effective changes, like fostering public-private partnerships to drive economic growth and supporting the Economic Development Alliance (EDA) to attract new businesses. I have implemented specific initiatives, such as the half-cent infrastructure surtax, providing a 39% return on investment for taxpayers. I did this by helping devise a financial model that led to an 83% increase in buying power, stretching our tax dollars further. This surtax funds road paving, stormwater management, and sidewalk installations. I advocate for its renewal to ensure ongoing infrastructure improvements. Public safety is a cornerstone of my service. I have worked closely with Sheriff Tommy Ford to expand the Lifeline Program, securing an appropriation of $1.5M in opioid settlement dollars, allowing us to build a $4.5M facility without taxpayer debt. This initiative is personal to me, having seen addiction's effects on close family members. My commitment underscores my dedication to improving Bay County residents' lives. Transparency and accountability are fundamental to my role. I maintain the Bay County Half-Cent Sales Tax website, providing clear visual reports on project progress. This commitment ensures taxpayers see exactly where and how their money is spent. I've managed the County’s $570M budget with fiscal responsibility, prioritizing public safety and essential services, recommending cuts, and delaying non-critical purchases. Specifically, we’ve raised the Sheriff's Deputies' salary by approximately 50% and invested $5M in state-of-the-art equipment to attract quality law enforcement officers. I have also led the charge to repeal the paid parking at the Pier, ensuring no additional cost to Bay County citizens. I continue to push the effort to open the Old Pass; utilizing RESTORE funds, we can bring this to reality at no additional cost to Bay County citizens. In this election, experience, proven results, and realistic goals matter. I am committed to continuing my work for Bay County with the same dedication and effectiveness that has characterized my service thus far. Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Bay County. Thank you for your continued support. Tommy Hamm Bay County Commissioner https://votetommyhamm.com/ ------------------- (Bay County Coastal does not endorse candidates.)