The historic Panama Grammar School building needs some work, and might be getting it soon. It was built in 1916, and code enforcement officials have stated that it has been deemed unsafe for two years.
Panama City Commissioners tell us that the current owner has listed the property for sale without addressing its safety issues.
On Tuesday, commissioners made a motion to send a letter to the Downtown Improvement Board and the Community Redevelopment Agency to cover the repairs.
Mayor Allan Branch said he is in favor of protecting historical buildings through code enforcement.
“It’s a very important building that a lot of people have sentimental value towards. I think this was the right step. I hate that it took two years to get here. But I think the attitude is still ‘hey, owner, do right by the community and do right by the asset you purchased,“ said Commissioner John Street.