Rep. Nathan Boyles files first bill aiming at expanding county authority over solar farms
From solar farms to storm prep, a new proposal from Rep. Nathan Boyles (R-Baker) would give counties more power over renewable-energy projects and hold utilities to stricter cost-benefit standard
Florida Chamber President: Emerald Coast Must ‘Play the Long Game’ to Secure Economic Future
Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson told Emerald Coast business leaders that Florida’s 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 world’s 10th largest economy by 2030.
DeSantis Awards Law Enforcement Bonuses; Program Has Now Reached 9,400 Recruits
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced Monday that the state has awarded more than 9,400 law enforcement officers $5,000 recruitment bonuses since launching the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program in 2022.
At an event in Panama City, DeSantis presented checks to recruits from Bay, Franklin, Gulf, and Walton counties, highlighting the state’s continued push to recruit, reward, and retain law enforcement officers.
Crestview Council Member Appointed to Florida League of Cities Policy Committee
Crestview City Council Member Shannon Hayes has been appointed vice chair of the Florida League of Cities’ Municipal Operations Policy Committee for 2025–2026, where he will help shape legislative priorities for municipalities across Florida.
Florida Appeals Court strikes down state’s open carry ban as unconstitutional
A Florida appeals court struck down the state’s open-carry ban, ruling it unconstitutional under the Second Amendment and setting up a new legal and legislative fight over gun rights.
200 arrested in Panhandle immigration crackdown, DeSantis says Florida ‘leads’
Florida troopers arrested 200 people in the Panhandle this week in what Gov. Ron DeSantis calls a “clear message” on immigration enforcement — here’s what happened and what comes next.
Two New Statues Unveiled to Honor Women Veterans
Two New Statues Unveiled to Honor Women Veterans Staff Reports May 28, 2025 1:45 pm Military, News, Okaloosa County, State Government In Brief: The 3rd Annual Women Veterans Day ceremony in Okaloosa County will take place June 12 at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center. This year’s event will include the unveiling of two new […]
Florida Wildlife Commission Advances Bear Hunt Rules
Florida Wildlife Commission Advances Bear Hunt Rules Staff Reports May 22, 2025 10:18 am Government, News, State Government, Wildlife In Brief: 🐻 Florida’s wildlife agency voted to advance a proposed rule allowing black bear hunting to return to the state. FWC says hunting could help manage bear populations—but critics question its necessity and impact. 📍 […]
Florida Parks, Florida Prepaid Launch Summer Giveaway
Florida Parks, Florida Prepaid Launch Summer Giveaway Staff Reports May 20, 2025 6:15 pm News, Schools and Education, State Government Families in Florida have a new reason to hit the trails this summer. Florida State Parks and the Florida Prepaid College Savings Program have teamed up once again to offer a mix of outdoor fun […]
University of West Florida President Martha Saunders Resigns Amid Political Turmoil
Dr. Martha Saunders, President of the University of West Florida (UWF), announced her resignation on Monday, concluding an eight-year tenure marked by significant institutional achievements and recent political challenges. In a letter addressed to students, faculty, and staff, Saunders stated: “When I returned to the University of West Florida as president, it felt like coming […]
