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Commissioner Calls Out Tax Break: A Race To The Bottom?

Okaloosa County Commissioner Nathan Boyles cast the sole dissenting vote against placing a referendum on the November ballot to extend a tax exemption for qualifying companies. Boyles, who originally supported the measure a decade ago, now argues the tax creates unfair competition, offers minimal benefit, and incurs high compliance costs. Despite his concerns, the referendum was approved, with proponents arguing that the exemption has attracted significant investment and job creation to the county.

Nihill Taylor to Replace Martin at STEMM Academy

The Okaloosa County School Board has appointed Kimberly Nihill Taylor, current Assistant Principal at Niceville High School, as the new principal of STEMM Academy in Valparaiso. Taylor, a longtime educator with over three decades of experience in the Okaloosa County School District, succeeds Dr. Scheree Martin, who was reassigned following disciplinary issues. Taylor brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role, having previously served as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the district.

Mid Bay News

A drone view of the activity on Boggy Bayou before the annual fireworks festival put on every year by the cities of Niceville  and Valparaiso.