By Tamara L. Young, PhD, Public Information Director and Mayor Bobby Wagner
TY: We have our annual Open House coming up on Wednesday, October 22nd from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. It’s such a great way to say thanks to our community members with a free fish fry lunch and live music and of course answer any questions about projects and work being conducted. Everyone is invited! What would you like our residents to know you’re thankful to them for?
BW: I’m thankful every day for the trust and patience of our residents. Whether it’s navigating construction, showing up to a town hall, or volunteering to clean up our harbor, the people of Destin are what make this community thrive. You don’t just live here, you invest in our future by caring, engaging, and speaking up.
TY: Each year we choose a different theme for the Open House. This year’s is Mardi Gras, so expect a lot of purple, green and gold at the Community Center! The dessert is decadent, too, with three tiers of Mardi Gras madness.
BW: That sounds like a celebration fit for Destin! Mardi Gras is about joy, tradition, and community, three things we have in abundance here. Destin has always gathered around food and fun, from the old Destin Days festivals to the Fishing Rodeo that began in 1948. Our Open House carries on that same tradition of neighbors coming together to celebrate home.
TY: One of my favorite parts of the Open House is watching residents move around the gymnasium and talk with different City departments as well as our partners in the community, such as OCSO, DWU, WM, Destin Fire, and the Chamber. Anything you’d like to say about our partners?
BW: Our partners are essential. The City cannot deliver on its goals alone. From law enforcement to utilities, waste management to fire rescue, to our Chamber driving business strength, we are part of a team that works every day to keep Destin safe, clean, and thriving. Collaboration always beats competition, and Destin is proof that a rising tide lifts all boats. I am grateful for the way our partners show up for our residents, often behind the scenes, making sure life here runs smoothly.
TY: The Open House is held every October during Florida City Week. The idea is for cities to celebrate, showcase, and engage citizens in the work of municipal government. It’s run through the Florida League of Cities, which you’ve been heavily involved with.
BW: Florida City Week is a reminder that the best form of government is the one closest to the people. That is where trust is built, where accountability is clearest, and where neighbors can shape their own future. The Florida League of Cities champions this style of democracy, and it matches my personal vision for Destin. I believe that when decisions are made at the local level, they are not only more responsive, they are more effective. Events like our Destin Open House give our citizens the opportunity to be hands-on in our community, all while enjoying a fish fry that has been a tradition for decades.
