Why is Allan Running for Mayor?
Why Elected Officials Matter
When we began investing in property in Panama City in 2016, I was completely unaware of how crucial elected officials are to the success of community-oriented projects. Over the years, as a citizen, investor, and community advocate, I’ve seen the profound impact that leadership—or the lack of it—has on progress.
Since 2016, I’ve worked with about ten city commissioners and two mayors, each with their leadership style. While most genuinely want our community to succeed, I’ve observed significant gaps in curiosity, communication, and willingness to research and embrace new ideas.
The Leadership Gap
Unfortunately, I’ve encountered vindictive behavior, half-truths, and sometimes outright dishonesty from elected officials. Leaders resist learning, assume they have all the answers, and prioritize popularity over problem-solving. Some seem more focused on the “elected official” title than its responsibilities.
This lack of leadership has been frustrating, but amidst these challenges, one leader has stood out as a model of what elected officials should aspire to be: Ward 1 Commissioner Jenna Haligas.
Jenna Haligas: A Model Leader
Jenna has served since 2016, and her leadership has been transformative for our community. Without her, many barriers created by outdated policies would still stifle progress today. She championed critical changes, including:
Removing the mural ordinance that prohibited murals in our town.
Lifting the skateboarding ban in downtown Panama City.
Advocating for on-street café seating, which has revitalized public spaces.
Reforming the grease trap ordinance, a regulation that prevented small restaurants from opening.
These are just a few examples of her dedication. Jenna listened to citizens' concerns, researched solutions from other cities, and relentlessly pushed for progress. Her leadership turned “impossible” hurdles into achievable milestones.
Jenna and I don’t always agree on everything, but we’ve always approached our disagreements respectfully and kindly. That’s what servant leadership and collaboration look like—putting the greater good above personal differences and working together to make progress.
Why I’m Running for Mayor
Jenna’s tireless efforts have inspired me to run for mayor. Her approach to leadership—curiosity, persistence, and advocacy—has shown me what’s possible. Without her, I might have given up and left Panama City. Instead, I’m ready to step up and continue her work.
Being an elected official means more than holding a title or casting votes. It’s about listening to citizens, researching problems, and persistently driving new and better policies. Leadership is not a passive role. It demands commitment, curiosity, and relentless action.
You shouldn't seek elected office if you’re unwilling to learn, engage, and push for progress. But if you believe, as I do, that Panama City deserves better and can achieve more, we can continue building a thriving, forward-thinking community together. That’s why I’m running for mayor.