FL H0823

Creates the City of Panacea in Wakulla County as a new municipality containing approximately 850 persons, with a charter establishing a council-manager form of government with five council members.

Specifies the city's corporate boundaries encompassing 2,743 acres and grants the city broad municipal powers including taxation authority, subject to voter approval for ad valorem taxes.

Establishes a five-member city council elected at-large for 4-year terms (with initial 2 and 4-year staggered terms), with council members selecting a mayor and vice mayor serving 2-year terms.

Requires voter approval through referendum on August 26, 2014, with initial city council elections scheduled for November 4, 2014, and allows temporary governance through an interim city commission until elected officials take office on December 2, 2014.

Grants waivers to state incorporation requirements for minimum population (1,500) and population density (1.5 persons per acre) to preserve the city's historic coastal character; provides for continuation of fire rescue services and law enforcement through Wakulla County pending city ordinance changes.