What Will Downtown Niceville Look Like?

AVCON and STOA Architects presented design guidelines for the โ€œOld Town Landingโ€ project in Niceville, proposing a New Orleans/Mobile/Old Pensacola aesthetic for the six-acre waterfront area. The guidelines, focused on wind resistance and energy efficiency, are meant to guide future development without imposing strict requirements. The city will now issue a request for proposals (RFP) to developers, with options to either retain, sell, or enter a public-private partnership for the land.

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.

ALICE In Wonderland: The Hidden Struggle for Survival in Niceville

Luis Torres, a Niceville Walmart employee and father, embodies the struggles of the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, facing challenges with childcare and housing. High childcare costs and restrictive housing options push many working-class families like his to the brink of financial instability. Local leaders, including City Manager David Deitch, are exploring solutions to alleviate these burdens, such as increasing affordable housing inventory and advocating for policy changes to support these families.

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.