Vocational students could get easier transportation to classes in Panama City

Franklin County and the Gulf Coast workforce board are working on a plan that could help more local residents get vocational training in Panama City. On Wednesday the Franklin County commission gave their approval to a plan that could provide funding for a local company to provide transportation for up to 15 people to take vocational training classes at Haney VoTec in Panama City. Under the plan, the Gulf Coast workforce Board would provide funding of up to 100 thousand dollars a year to cover the expenses of transporting students to and from Panama City on a daily basis. The money would be provided to a local non-profit group to help cover the costs for fuel, vehicle maintenance and the salary for a driver. The group that provides the service would need a van that carries at least 15 people. The Workforce board said it will seek bids over the next few weeks from groups interested in providing the service. The board also provides money for tuition so that Franklin County residents can take vocational classes in Panama City in areas including welding and auto repair.