Commissioner Calls Out Tax Break: A Race To The Bottom?
Okaloosa County Commissioner Nathan Boyles cast the sole dissenting vote against placing a referendum on the November ballot to extend a tax exemption for qualifying companies. Boyles, who originally supported the measure a decade ago, now argues the tax creates unfair competition, offers minimal benefit, and incurs high compliance costs. Despite his concerns, the referendum was approved, with proponents arguing that the exemption has attracted significant investment and job creation to the county.
Okaloosa County Wins Appeal Against Timberview Helicopters
Okaloosa County won an appeal in a lawsuit filed by Timberview Helicopters regarding the termination of their agreement.
Robert J Guidry Pleaded Guilty to Paying a Bribe. Now, He’s The Top Donor In Okaloosa County 2024 Election Campaigns
Louisiana businessman Robert J ‘Bobby’ Guidry pleaded guilty to bribing a governor for a riverboat gambling license in the 90s. Now, he’s spending money in Okaloosa County Elections. Why?
Tattoos and RV Sales on Facebook – The State of Okaloosa’s Local Economy
The local economy in southern Okaloosa County, supported by a stable defense industry and fluctuating tourism, shows mixed signs of recovery. United Fidelity Bank’s Ed Burns highlights unique economic indicators such as the sluggish sales of RVs, boats, and golf clubs, empty sports bars, and a decline in tattoo business, pointing to cautious consumer spending and underlying financial hesitations. Despite these trends, the local market remains optimistic, with signs of future growth as businesses and properties change hands.
Florida Man Robs Bank in Flip Flops, Hides Cash in Maserati
A 66-year-old Destin resident, Charles Gallagher, has been arrested for allegedly robbing a Truist Bank on Emerald Coast Parkway using a note to demand cash. Authorities found his black 2017 Maserati with concealed identifiers, along with cash, a surgical mask, and glasses. Gallagher, who has faced financial difficulties since 2017, is held without bond on charges of robbery without a weapon, facing up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
Okaloosa School Board Member Resigns to Lead Destin High School
Destin High School welcomes a familiar face as its new principal, Dr. Diane Kelley, a lifelong educator and current school board member. Dr. Kelley, who will officially begin
Okaloosa Superintendent Appointed To FHSAA Board of Directors
Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Marcus Chambers, the Superintendent of Schools for Okaloosa County, to the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Board of Directors. Chambers, with over 26 years in education, has been recognized for his contributions at various levels, including as a teacher, principal, and administrator. This appointment, which awaits confirmation by the Florida Senate, highlights Chambers’ commitment to advancing high school athletics in Florida.
Valparaiso Couple Wins $100,000 Wedding By Doing This!
Brandon Lang and Lesley Lowrey, natives of Destin and Niceville, recently won a $100,000 wedding weekend in a contest sponsored by three northwest Florida businesses. Their victory, achieved through widespread community voting, means the couple will have their dream wedding in Pensacola on November 17th, free of financial stress and planning worries. The couple, who met at 16 while working at a movie theater, plan to live in Valparaiso after their nuptials.
Parents: ‘Okaloosa STEMM Principal Broke The Law.’ Now, They Say They Want Justice for Their Son With Autism.
Okaloosa STEMM Academy, lauded as one of Florida’s top middle schools, faces scrutiny from a family who claims their son, José, experienced harassment under the administration of Principal Dr. Scheree Martin. Despite José’s high academic performance, his parents allege Martin’s disciplinary actions targeted their son due to his autism and ADD, leading them to withdraw him from the school. Their ongoing battle highlights concerns about the school’s handling of students with special needs and has prompted investigations by both the Okaloosa County School District and the Florida Department of Education.
Destin Man Injured in Shooting
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred Friday night at Sea Glass Apartments on Commons Drive in Destin. A 60-year-old man driving a white truck was found with multiple gunshot wounds and is currently being treated at a local hospital. The suspect, who called deputies from within the apartment complex, is in custody. The motive remains unclear. Authorities are seeking information from the public regarding the incident and can be reached at 850.651.7400 or through Emerald Coast Crimestoppers.
