Inside the Push to Change 30A’s County’s Beach Rules
In a show of civility amid fiery social media clashes, Walton County residents and vendors collaboratively tackled beach ordinance updates, from bonfire fuels to vendor boundaries, in workshops that could reshape Emerald Coast shores.
Okaloosa County approves $687M budget with flat millage, rising tax bills
Flat millage rate, bigger tax bills, and a AAA bond rating — here’s what’s inside Okaloosa County’s $687 million budget.
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 county’s top priorities?
Patronis, Scott push for National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk after assassination
Charlie Kirk’s legacy may soon be honored nationwide — Florida lawmakers are leading a push for a National Day of Remembrance on his birthday.
Rep. Jimmy Patronis introduces HOMEFRONT Act to overhaul military housing rules
Should military families be trapped in outdated homes because of historic preservation rules? A new bill from Rep. Jimmy Patronis says no.
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 — do you think these flotation devices could make a difference?
Triumph Approves $4.77 Million for Regional Economic Diversification Plan
Triumph Gulf Coast approved a $4.77 million grant for Florida’s Great Northwest to launch United FORWARD, a regional economic diversification and marketing initiative covering eight coastal Panhandle counties.
Five Rehabilitated Sea Turtles Released at Inlet Beach
The Gulfarium CARE Center released five rehabilitated sea turtles at Inlet Beach after treating them for hook-related injuries and other conditions, with community members gathering to watch their return to the Gulf.
Okaloosa County approves $730K surtax request for new upgrades
Okaloosa County is fast-tracking long-awaited road and sidewalk upgrades — thanks to nearly $730,000 in local surtax funding.
