Lynn Haven officials honor former mayor

LYNN HAVEN, Fla. ( WMBB ) — The Lynn Haven City Commission Chambers in the new city hall facility will have a new name soon. City officials are naming the chambers after Former Mayor Walter Kelley.

“He’s demonstrated what it means to have a lifetime of service,” Lynn Haven Mayor Jesse Nelson said.

Kelley is being recognized for his sacrifices to his city.

“After serving his country, he could have easily just vacationed while he was here in Lynn Haven, but he decided to still get involved and serve his community,” Nelson said.

Kelley’s story begins with his time in the United States Air Force.

“I had the privilege of serving 5 years for security for the secretary of the Air Force. Then I went to psych headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska, and I was a superintendent for security and law enforcement there for a number of years. I served a total of 24 years, eight months, and ten days in the military,” Kelley said.

Following his military service, Kelley pursued a career in law enforcement.

“I came here and went back to finish my school at Gulf Coast College and got my degree in criminology. Then I went to work at Callaway as a patrolman, and I became the chief of police in Callaway for about four and a half years,” Kelley said.

Then he got involved in local government. Kelley was a Lynn Haven commissioner for 4 years, then he threw his hat in the ring for mayor.

“While I was there, we were able to bring in the Trane company, other companies bringing jobs into Lynn Haven, which is the primary thing.”

While Kelley appreciates the honor, he says his main motivation was serving his community.

“That’s what it was all about, giving back. Even when I was in the military, I wanted to do a good job so that I would leave just a little footprint wherever I went,” Kelley said.

The city is planning to hold a future ceremony to officially name the chambers after Kelley.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com.