Lynn Haven: April 14, 2026 City Commission Meeting
Summary. The Lynn Haven City Commission held its regular meeting on April 14, 2026, with all five commissioners present (Commissioner Peebles participating remotely). The meeting began with proclamations for Autism Awareness Month and Fair Housing Month, followed by approval of a six-item consent agenda. The commission addressed multiple infrastructure projects including utility improvements, drainage projects, and street paving initiatives. Key business items included approving various contracts and resolutions, discussing funding for an I Can Bike program for individuals with disabilities, and adopting a sponsorship policy. The commission also approved an employment agreement for City Manager Chris Lightfoot, with one dissenting vote from Commissioner Tender. Several public works projects were approved including the West Side outfall drainage improvements and the Bell Circle property purchase for $85,000.
Agenda Items
1. Autism Awareness Month Proclamation
Mayor Lowery read and presented proclamation declaring April 2026 as Autism Awareness Month, followed by performance by Highland Park Special Connections Choir
- Statistics on autism spectrum disorder prevalence
- Recognition of families and caregivers
- Importance of early intervention
2. Fair Housing Month Proclamation
Proclamation declaring April 2026 as Fair Housing Month in Lynn Haven
- Fair Housing Act history and protections
- City's commitment to inclusive communities
- Ongoing discrimination challenges
12. ECSC Contract Amendment for West 10th Street Utility Improvement
Approved first amendment to change public record retention requirement from 3 to 6 years
- CDBG project audit requirement
- Record retention compliance
- No impact on project completion
19. I Can Bike Program Funding Discussion
Discussion of proposed program to teach bike riding to individuals with disabilities, estimated cost $10,000-15,000
- Program serves ages 8 to adults
- Need for sponsorships
- Volunteer background check requirements
- Contract negotiations needed
20. Employment Agreement for City Manager Chris Lightfoot
Approved employment contract for City Manager with 4-1 vote
- $155,000 annual salary
- Three-year term
- $500 monthly vehicle allowance
- Severance provisions
- Residency requirements
Motions & Votes
Motion to allow Commissioner Peebles to attend remotely
Moved by Mayor Dave Lowery, seconded by Mayor Dave Lowery
Passed 5-0
Motion to accept consent agenda items
Moved by Not clearly identified, seconded by Not clearly identified
Passed 5-0
Motion to approve ECSC contract amendment
Moved by Not clearly identified, seconded by Not clearly identified
Passed 5-0
Motion to approve employment agreement for Chris Lightfoot
Moved by Not clearly identified, seconded by Not clearly identified
Passed 4-1
Motion to table I Can Bike program discussion
Moved by Commissioner Ward, seconded by Not clearly identified
Passed 5-0
Action Items
Work on securing sponsorships for I Can Bike program and resolve contract issues
Assigned to City Staff
Complete West Side outfall drainage improvements design
Assigned to Dewberry Engineers
Prepare facilities for summer recreation programs
Assigned to Sports and Recreation Department · Due May 16, 2026 for splash pad opening
Frequently Asked Questions
What was decided at this meeting?
The Lynn Haven City Commission held its regular meeting on April 14, 2026, with all five commissioners present (Commissioner Peebles participating remotely). The meeting began with proclamations for Autism Awareness Month and Fair Housing Month, followed by approval of a six-item consent agenda. The commission addressed multiple infrastructure projects including utility improvements, drainage projects, and street paving initiatives. Key business items included approving various contracts and resolutions, discussing funding for an I Can Bike program for individuals with disabilities, and adopting a sponsorship policy. The commission also approved an employment agreement for City Manager Chris Lightfoot, with one dissenting vote from Commissioner Tender. Several public works projects were approved including the West Side outfall drainage improvements and the Bell Circle property purchase for $85,000.
What was on the agenda?
This meeting covered 5 agenda items: Autism Awareness Month Proclamation; Fair Housing Month Proclamation; ECSC Contract Amendment for West 10th Street Utility Improvement; I Can Bike Program Funding Discussion; Employment Agreement for City Manager Chris Lightfoot.
How many motions were voted on?
5 motions were voted on during this meeting. See the Motions & Votes section above for each motion and its result.
What action items came out of this meeting?
3 action items were identified. See the Action Items section above for details and who they were assigned to.
Who attended this meeting?
8 members were recorded as present: Mayor Dave Lowery, Commissioner Ward, Commissioner Tender, Commissioner Purnell, Commissioner Peebles (remote), City Manager Chris Lightfoot, City Attorney Chris Jackson, Assistant City Manager Amy Hodges.
Where can I watch the full recording?
The full video recording is available on YouTube or embedded at the top of this page.
What county is Lynn Haven in?
Lynn Haven is located in Bay County, Florida. Browse other Bay County meeting summaries to see what local governments across the county are working on.
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