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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 […]

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

“Use part of the $5million to remove the docks that are in an already overcrowded harbor.”
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“Fire hydrants are color coded for the rate of water flow measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Seems like painting the hydrants in artistic color designs would mess up this...”
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“Isn't that going to make that area of waterway too crowded during tourist season ? As is already is!”
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Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: April 1, 2026
“1 min 36 sec”
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“Who authorized the building of the docks?”
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“Hopefully they didn't get their child back. They're lucky the Kiddo survived.”
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“The county needs to walk away gracefully and let Destin handle it.”
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“Jim Bagby, take the pledge to always support & fight for the citizens & tourists proven historic right to free and unobstructed access to and use of the beaches in...”
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Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: March 30, 2026
“1 min 23 sec”
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