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Bobby Wagner sworn in as Destin’s new mayor, also new council-members

On Monday night, Bobby Wagner was sworn-in as Destin’s new Mayor , along with Jim Bagby, Torey Geile and Matthew Sweetser as elected city council-members.  Okaloosa Commissioner Mel Ponder (also former Destin Mayor) was on hand to facilitate the swearing in in front of a packed room.  Wagner then thanked the residents who came out to the […]

Image via City of Destin Facebook

On Monday night, Bobby Wagner was sworn-in as Destin’s new Mayor , along with Jim Bagby, Torey Geile and Matthew Sweetser as elected city council-members. 

  • Okaloosa Commissioner Mel Ponder (also former Destin Mayor) was on hand to facilitate the swearing in in front of a packed room. 
  • Wagner then thanked the residents who came out to the meeting, followed by a short speech. 

“A few months ago, I took a leap of faith in a position that I felt very called to do,” said Wagner. “I felt very strongly to run for this position because I, for many years, have called Destin my home and I care deeply about not only where we’ve been, but where we’re at and where we’re going.”

Wagner then told the crowd that he promises them 3 things: 

  • To always listen.
  • To always keep learning.
  • To continue to love the Destin community.

“I want to make sure that you all are heard and understood,” added Wagner. “So even though I look 12-years-old, I appreciate everyone’s support on this road. I could not have done this without the support of my friends, family, and everyone involved, my neighbors, and the community groups.”

Jim Bagby being sworn in by Commissioner Mel Ponder for the Destin City Council. (City of Destin)
Matthew Sweetser being sworn in by Commissioner Mel Ponder for the Destin City Council. (City of Destin)
Torey Geile being sworn in by Commissioner Mel Ponder for the Destin City Council. (City of Destin)

The city also thanked former Mayor Gary Jarvis and former council-member Rodney Braden for their years of service.

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Community Comments

“The Big U! The NMU supplied the unlicensed crew and when we lost this ship and its jobs and when U.S. Lines went bankrupt, we were on our way to...”
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“Highschool is finna be more crowed now. We need another highschool not a middle or elementary school.”
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“This is bittersweet. I spent a wonderful week in Cay Sal Banks on the Pilot in 2006. I will have to go pay her a visit soon....”
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“I agree with Jerome. What will this accomplish since both ends are only 4 lanes?”
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“The parking lot at McGuires would disappear along with the parcel that Destin purchased at the bridge.. Flooding on Okaloosa Island would close an expensive update to 98 , at...”
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“This will not make a difference for traffic passing through the center of Destin along Rt. 98. The smart option is to complete the Brooks Bridge and intersection in Ft...”
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“Doesn’t it still end up with 4 lanes on either end after bridges? Seems more aesthetic than a traffic plan. Which is nice too but does it increase the function?”
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“It would be a money pit let’s sink it for the tourists who we don’t have enough of so more will come”
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“Traffic moves pretty well on that stretch of 98, I don't see the need to waste the money. Maybe do something to deal with the traffic in Destin, and Mary...”
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