"If I wanted to live in the big city I'd move there. Panama City is special and will only stay that way with the people's voice. I will never let government move forward without your voice of consent."

About

ABOUT THE CANDIDATE

Ed Young is a well-qualified candidate for the position of Panama City Commission, Ward 1. Ed is a passionate advocate for the residents of our community, firmly believing that every voice deserves to be heard in local government. With a commitment to transparency and accountability, he will strive to ensure that our government works for the people, prioritizing the needs and concerns of all citizens. Ed's vision is rooted in inclusivity, and he aims to create an environment where every resident feels empowered to participate in the decision-making processes that affects their lives. Ed will always advocate the importance that government works for the people and not without them.

"Let me be clear, I believe that City Government should work for the people not without them. We will accomplish this. My loyalty is to all the citizens and their shared interests."

- Edward Young Jr.

Candidate for City Commissioner, Ward 1

Ed's motivation to represent the people stems from his rich background in the military, law enforcement and business ownership. He has experienced first hand the perspective of both sides of the dynamic of public-government interaction. Throughout his life, he developed a strong sense of duty, commitment, and integrity—qualities that he believes are essential for effective leadership in local government. In the military, Ed learned the importance of teamwork, resilience, and putting the needs of others before his own. He has a deep understanding of the challenges that citizens face daily, as he worked to protect and serve his community and develop and sustain a small business.

Ed & Catherine (Left), Daughters (Right)

This firsthand experience gave him a unique perspective on the critical issues that matter most to residents, such as public safety, community engagement, and the need for local government to address residents' concerns. Ed is motivated by a desire to bring a sense of accountability and accessibility to the Panama City Commission. He believes that his background equips him with the skills to foster positive relationships between the government and the community, ensuring that the needs of the residents are prioritized and addressed. Ultimately, Ed’s mission is to create a government that not only listens but actively works to improve the quality of life for everyone in Panama City.

Ed was stationed here in Panama City at Tyndall AFB in the early 1980s. After initial training as an aircraft mechanic and initial assignment to Upper Peninsula Michigan, his final assignment to Tyndall ended in 1988 when he received an appointment to the Florida Marine Patrol Academy where he began a careeer in Law Enforcement. Ed was stationed in south Florida at first then to the panhandle including Panama City and Pensacola. Further Agencies include the Escambia County Sheriff's Office, Bay County Sheriff's Office, Panama City Police Dept. and a one year position in Kosovo from 1999-2000 as an international police officer who's duties afforded him to assess and qualify international police officers to the mission from the countries of Ivory Coast, Gambia, Benin, Germany, and Russia. This assignment required in-country visits for testing and evaluating these candidates for service. At the close of this rewarding careeer, Ed earned his State Certified Building Contractor's License and opened Colonial Construction Group LLC. His life's journey has been fulfilling through his marriage to his wife, Catherine and his children who remain his true joy to this day.

VISION

I am against the "if we build it they will come" direction which is a proven path to disaster in government.

I know that our local knowledge and elected officials should shoulder the growth direction with limited input from contracted, out of town consultants.

I am a strong advocate of citizen review boards. If you're doing nothing wrong, you have nothing to hide.

There is no reason nor has there ever been a reason to fix that which is not broken. Beach Drive is to be left alone.

Although our city will honor existing contracts, they shall no longer be granted with out a fair industry standard "three bid minimum" before the city can engage.

Speaking

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & COLLABORATION

Stay informed and engaged with our community by accessing public commission meeting dates, recordings, agendas, and minutes through these QR codes!

(Click, Tap, or Scan)

PanamaCity.gov

(Official)

Panama City (YoutTube)