Okaloosa Deputy Killer Pleads to Murder
The man who killed Deputy Ray Hamilton on Christmas Eve 2022 has pleaded guilty to murder, avoiding trial and the death penalty in a deal supported by the deputy’s family.
Okaloosa Departments Made $60 Million in Budget Requests. Here’s What They Want it For:
Okaloosa Budget: Workshop highlights public safety, health, jail and tourism Collin Bestor July 24, 2025 1:15 pm Okaloosa County In Brief: 💰 $60 million in budget requests highlight critical needs across elections, public safety, and corrections as Okaloosa County plans for FY2026. 🚔 The county jail is operating 25% over capacity, prompting new officer training […]
Northeast Okaloosa County designated rural area of opportunity to boost economic growth
Governor DeSantis’ Executive Order designates northeast Okaloosa County as a Rural Area of Opportunity to boost economic growth and job creation.
Okaloosa County unveils $687M budget, millage stays flat while property taxes go up
Despite an unchanged millage rate for Okaloosa County, residents should expect to pay more due to rising property taxes.
School Districts Earn As – What Does That Mean?
Okaloosa and Walton County schools both scored A ratings from the state—but the data shows major differences in readiness and performance across campuses.
Okaloosa County Commissioners approve amendment to Hospital Assessment Program
Okaloosa County commissioners approved an amendment to the Local Provider Participation Fund, ensuring local hospitals can continue receiving Medicaid-related reimbursements at no cost to taxpayers.
Okaloosa County approves land use change for planned veterans retirement community
A major veterans housing project just cleared a key hurdle in Okaloosa County—here’s what’s next for Victory Village.
Okaloosa County approves tax exemption for Talking Parents Expansion
Okaloosa County approved a tax break for Talking Parents to expand its headquarters, bringing high-wage tech jobs to the area.
Okaloosa County boosts fishing industry with FAD network
Okaloosa County will install eight new shallow-water fish aggregating devices off Destin’s coast, expanding the county’s offshore fishing network with a $513,000 project funded through budget savings.
Kristen Shell named Okaloosa County’s next Growth Management Director
Kristen Shell, a veteran planner with over two decades of experience in Northwest Florida, has been unanimously confirmed as Okaloosa County’s new Growth Management Director.
