Okaloosa County promotes Scott Bitterman to be Public Works Director

Interm no longer. The Okaloosa County Commission approved Scott Bitterman to become the county’s permanent public works director.
Okaloosa Commission begins deliberation on 2026 legislative priorities

Okaloosa County is asking the state for nearly $200 million to widen State Road 85 while also pushing policy stances on gun rights, mental health diversion, and homestead exemptions.
Do you think these should be the countyβs top priorities?
Patt Maney Returns to Okaloosa County, Highlights Legislative Wins and New Committee Roles

Rep. Patt Maney returned to Okaloosa County after an extended legislative session in Tallahassee, where he highlighted more than $23 million in local funding secured, new state laws he helped pass, and his 2026 committee assignments, including chairing the Justice Budget Subcommittee.
Okaloosa County backs Rotary proposal to expand beach rescue tube program

Okaloosa County is considering a low-cost but potentially lifesaving project to expand rescue tube stations along local beaches β do you think these flotation devices could make a difference?
Kiwanis Foundation Delivers 288 βBags of Hopeβ to Foster Children in Northwest Florida

The Kiwanis Foundation of Niceville-Valparaiso, with support from FPL, the NextEra Energy Foundation, and other Division 1 Kiwanis Clubs, delivered 288 Bags of Hope to foster children in Northwest Florida to provide essential items during their transition into foster care.
Okaloosa County approves $730K surtax request for new upgrades

Okaloosa County is fast-tracking long-awaited road and sidewalk upgrades β thanks to nearly $730,000 in local surtax funding.
Okaloosa County approves $700K contracts for artificial reef vessels

Okaloosa County is turning two old vessels into underwater havens for fish, divers, and anglersβhereβs how the $700,000 project is making waves in the Gulf.
Okaloosa County approves $824K PAWS contract, considers in-house animal control

Okaloosa County secures another year of animal control services with PAWS β but commissioners are already planning for a future where the county takes the reins.
Okaloosa’s overdose support team reaches 200 survivors in first year

Okaloosa Countyβs year-old Post Overdose Support Team has connected with over 200 overdose survivors, enrolling dozens in treatment programs while county leaders say the initiative is reshaping the local fight against opioids.
Okaloosa County fish aggregating device project faces $41K tariff hurdle

Okaloosa County added a $41,760 tariff contingency to its offshore reef buoy contract, ensuring the fish aggregating device program stays on track despite trade policy uncertainty.