Welcome to the Panama City CRA's Tax Increment Rebate Program! 

This program is designed to encourage private sector redevelopment, in-fill projects, and public improvements that align with the city’s recovery and growth strategies. By offering financial incentives through tax increment rebates, the program supports eligible developments—such as mixed-use projects, affordable housing, and environmental clean-ups—that enhance our community’s economic vitality and quality of life. Whether you’re a developer or a property owner, explore how this program can help bring your vision to life while revitalizing Panama City's vibrant neighborhoods.

To learn more, view the document below to explore the full program details, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and potential bonuses. Ready to take the next step? Follow the outlined application process and connect with us to see how your vision aligns with Panama City’s redevelopment goals. Don’t miss this opportunity to make an impact!

Panama City CRA Tax Increment Rebate Program & Application

World Changers & the Panama City CRA Team Up to Transform Millville and Downtown North District Homes in Summer 2026

World Changers is joining forces with the Panama City Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) for the tenth consecutive year to create positive change in neighborhoods that need it. In Summer 2026, the Home Improvement Program will focus on rehabilitating homes within the Millville and Downtown North CRA districts, striving to enhance the quality of life for the residents, one home at a time.

In Summer 2026, hundreds of dedicated World Changers volunteers will return to Panama City to finish various home repair projects. From painting houses and repairing porches to installing fences and more, the volunteers’ hard work is part of a larger effort to make communities safer and brighter.

In this strong alliance, World Changers will contribute all the labor for free, and the City’s CRA will supply and pay for the necessary materials. Thus, the renovations are totally free for residents in these communities.

The neighborhoods included in the 2026 Program will be available soon. Please check back for information and applications soon. 

To learn more, contact Michelle Zirkle (mzirkle@panamacity.gov) for Millville locations and Lena Webb (lwebb@panamacity.gov) for Downtown North locations.

Program Overview

This initiative is funded by the Panama City CRA and championed by Ward 2 City Commissioner Janice Lucas.

 

In the aftermath of Hurricane Michael in 2018, Panama City has been steadily working to rebuild. The Category 5 storm left behind a landscape of vacant lots and demolished structures, but also opened the door for new opportunities. With resources to rebuild limited, the CRA focuses on connecting developable properties with capable local developers while helping property owners realize the potential of their land.

 

This project embraces the principles of incremental development - a people-centered, financially sustainable approach to community growth. Instead of relying on large-scale developments that can displace residents and strain public resources, incremental development supports smaller, context-sensitive projects such as duplexes, corner stores, and main street building renovations.

 

The initiative brings together a broad network of stakeholders committed to strengthening communities through small-scale, thoughtful development:

 

• Aspiring Developers gain tools and training to launch neighborhood-sized projects.
• City Planners and Officials learn how to embed incremental practices into policy and infrastructure planning.
• Neighborhood Leaders advocate for zoning reforms and community investment that support walkable, people-first places.
• Foundations and Sponsors invest in local capacity-building with long-term community impact.
• Policymakers explore reforms that enable more flexible, grassroots development options.

 

Upcoming Events

 

Small Scale Development Boot Camp

1. Event Page: https://www.incrementaldevelopment.org/events/panamacitybootcamp
2. Dates: February 26, March 5, 12, 19, 26 (Thursdays, 4-7 PM CT)
3. Location: Panama City City Hall, 501 Harrison Ave, Panama City, FL 32401
4. Scholarship Applications: Available through February 6. Apply here.
5. Contact: training@incrementaldevelopment.org | (479) 305-4807

The Millville Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program is now open to support exterior improvements for commercial properties located within the Millville CRA District along U.S. 98 / East 5th Street from Bay Avenue to Everitt Avenue. This program is designed to enhance the appearance, safety, and long-term value of Millville’s primary commercial corridor by helping property owners make high-quality improvements that complement the character of the area.

 

Eligible projects may include façade renovations, signage, lighting, awnings, architectural enhancements, outdoor seating areas, ADA accessibility upgrades, exterior painting, public art, landscaping, and other improvements that contribute to a more attractive and inviting streetscape. The program provides up to $15,000 per property with no match requirement, with ten grants available per year, per property, on a first-come, first-served basis. 

 

Two funding options are available: 

 

Reimbursement Grants: 

The owner covers the full cost upfront and is reimbursed upon completion.

Direct Vendor Payment:

The CRA pays vendors directly so the owner is not required to pay any costs out of pocket.

 

Property owners and business operators are encouraged to review the full program guidelines before applying. For questions or assistance with the process, please contact the CRA Program Manager Michelle Zirkle at mzirkle@panamacity.gov.

 

Click the Link below for Program Guidelines and Application:

Millville Commercial Property Improvement (CPI) Grant Guidelines and Application