The City of Panama City held a live-streamed meeting on August 2, 2025, aimed at enhancing community engagement by experimenting with a more convenient meeting format. The meeting began with an introduction from the facilitators, who acknowledged the challenges of scheduling meetings at times that accommodate the public. They expressed a commitment to finding a better format that encourages participation and allows for meaningful discussions.

The facilitators, including Alan, Jonathan, Janice, Robbie, and Brian, emphasized the importance of keeping conversations engaging and ensuring that all voices are heard. They introduced a three-minute timer to manage speaking times, aiming to prevent lengthy discussions on single issues that could lead to disengagement. The goal was to foster an environment where attendees felt encouraged to contribute to the conversation.

As the meeting progressed, the facilitators invited participants to share their thoughts and questions. The atmosphere was open, with an emphasis on community involvement. Brian Grama, one of the attendees, was prompted to start the discussion, indicating that the meeting was designed to be interactive and responsive to the community's needs.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform for exploring new ways to engage residents in local governance, with a focus on adapting the format to better suit the community's preferences. The facilitators acknowledged that this approach is still a work in progress, and they are committed to refining the process based on feedback from participants.