Destin Council approves school expansion, Crystal Beach parking and $2M FDOT grant

Big moves for Destin! The city council just approved a major Destin Elementary expansion, a new Crystal Beach parking project, and a $2 million FDOT grant for the Crosstown Connector, while also getting some great news about our water quality.
Sen. Don Gaetz weighs in on $83M state purchase of Norriego Point

Florida plans to spend $83 million to purchase four acres of waterfront land at Norriego Point in Destin for public park and marina use, a move praised by Okaloosa County officials but questioned by Sen. Don Gaetz over the high price compared with the countyβs $10.5 million appraisal.
Florida Chamber President: Emerald Coast Must βPlay the Long Gameβ to Secure Economic Future

Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson told Emerald Coast business leaders that Floridaβs growth depends on long-term planning, investment in early education, and local collaboration. Speaking alongside former Niceville City Councilman Sal Nodjomian, Wilson highlighted challenges such as housing affordability and retaining young workers while projecting that Florida could become the worldβs 10th largest economy by 2030.
Texas Parents Arrested After Leaving Baby Alone on Walton County Beach for Nearly an Hour

Two parents visiting from Houston were arrested in Walton County after deputies say they left their six-month-old baby alone under a beach tent for nearly an hour while walking with their other children on Miramar Beach.
Rotary Club of Destin Expands Public Rescue Tube Program Across Okaloosa County Beaches

βThese tubes are already making a difference at Destin beach accesses,β said Rotary project co-chairs Dion Moniz and Wayne Bernheisel. βNow, we are excited to expand this proven program across more parts of Okaloosa County, making our beaches even safer for residents and visitors.”
Destin Council seeks federal help to fix East Pass navigation hazards after boat collisions

Destin officials are pushing for federal and state support to repair and light East Pass navigation markers after recent collisions and near-misses.
The Government Will Buy $80+ Million Worth of Beach Front in Destin. Is That A Good Thing?

Florida’s Cabinet approves a controversial $83 million land buy in Destin that could massively profit a felon developer with deep political ties, at the expense of local tax revenues.
Destin approves $61.1M budget, keeps property tax rate among Florida’s lowest

Destin approves $61.1M budget, keeps property tax rate among Florida’s lowest Staff Reports September 16, 2025 3:55 pm Uncategorized In Brief: π° Destin approved a $61.6 million FY 2026 budget with revenues down 37% from last year. π‘ The cityβs 1.615 millage rate remains among the lowest five in Florida. π Spending will contract across […]
Destin caps livery boats, adopts new saftey and permit rules

Destin capped its livery fleet at 490 vessels and imposed strict new safety and permit rules in a unanimous City Council vote Monday.
Georgia Woman Arrested After Destin Shooting

A Georgia woman was arrested in Destin after deputies say she shot a man in the leg during an argument on August 17. She faces charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and use of a firearm while under the influence.