Is this the end for Valparaiso Fire Department? + Other Valp Commission updates
The Valparaiso City Commission’s December meeting covered major topics including the future of fire services with Niceville, a proposed E-bike ordinance, the move into the new city hall, and the lineup for the 2026 mayoral election.
Valparaiso could add speed cameras in front of Eglin Air Force Base. Here’s what’s happening now:
Valparaiso discuss moving forward with a plan to install school zone speed cameras on John Sims Parkway near Eglin Air Force Base.
Valpraiso Fires Fire Chief After Secret Session
Valparaiso Fire Chief David Lanier is out after a tumultuous five-month tenure, with an EEOC complaint from a reinstated lieutenant ultimately leading to the commission’s unanimous decision to terminate him.
GALLERY: Christmas 2025 on the Emerald Coast (Send in your photos NOW!)
Merry Christmas to all from Mid Bay News! Here are the photo highlights of the season from around Northwest Florida and the Emerald Coast!
HVAC Give-Back: Local A/C Company Donates New System to Vet During Government Shutdown
Air Force Sergeant John Demos and his family are receiving a brand-new HVAC system from Mills Heating and Air, a welcome gift during financial hardship caused by the government shutdown.
Wreaths Across America Seeks Sponsors to Honor Every Veteran in Niceville and Valparaiso
Wreaths Across America’s Twin Cities chapter is calling on the community to help honor local veterans this December by sponsoring wreaths for every grave in Niceville and Valparaiso. Ceremonies will take place on December 13, 2025, at Sunset Cemetery and Heritage Gardens to remember and honor those who served.
Embattled Fire Chief Put On Admin Leave After Firing Whistleblower
Valparaiso put Fire Chief David Lanier on leave as they investigate the controversial termination of a whistleblower who accused the chief of using a racial slur.
City: Renovations on City Hall Slowed By Immigration Arrests
Valparaiso’s city headquarters project faces significant delays as immigration roundups in Northwest Florida disrupt construction crews, raising concerns about labor shortages and legal workers caught in the sweeps.
Fallout From Allegations Palpable at Fire Department Life Saving Ceremony
At Monday’s Valparaiso Commission meeting, firefighters Marquis Johnson, Josh Osmialowski, and Larry Hudson received life-saving awards for reviving a person who was electrocuted on Bayshore Drive. The recognition came amid tensions from an earlier dispute involving Fire Chief David Lanier, who was suspended over allegations of racial slurs, and Hudson, one of the firefighters who filed the complaint. The July 30 rescue involved using an AED to restart the victim’s heart before transporting them to the hospital.
What In The World Is Happening At Valparaiso Fire Department?
Firefighters allege at least five uses of the n-word by their new chief in less than a month. Unionization and allegations of retaliation. Can Val-p right the ship?
