Laird responds after charges resurface for resisting arrest in marine DUI incident
Walton County Tax Collector candidate Jessica Laird responded after a 2014 boating incident and resisting an officer charge resurfaced on social media. Court records show the misdemeanor case was closed in 2014 with no recorded plea, and Laird said the charge was dismissed with no conviction.
What would a Miccosukee Casino mean for Walton County? Expert weighs jobs, revenue and costs
The Miccosukee Tribe has not announced plans for its 25-acre DeFuniak Springs property, but a potential casino has sparked questions about jobs, tax revenue, tourism and costs. An economic expert examines what a casino could mean for Walton County and whether it would be the best use of the land.
Walton County Faces A Budget Crunch – Commissioners Don’t Agree and Lack Set Priorities
Walton County commissioners debated hiring, spending, and priorities as officials prepare for possible property tax revenue losses.
Scenic Walton has Commission interest and support to make this seriously expensive beautification upgrade
Walton County leaders are exploring a countywide underground utility project aimed at improving storm resilience and beautifying the community.
How Vacationers Made a Lasting Difference for Big Redfish Lake
Guests staying at two popular 30A resorts helped raise more than $2,000 to protect one of Walton County’s rare coastal dune lakes through an Earth Day promotion.
Carlos, Gourdon, and Kora Swim Free After Rehabilitation Journey
Hundreds gathered at Inlet Beach to cheer as rehabilitated sea turtles Carlos, Gourdon, and Kora returned home to the Gulf.
‘Just vote yes’: Calkins explains support for controversial property tax-reduction proposal.
James Calkins, Republican candidate for Walton County Commissioner, voiced his support for Governor Ron DeSantis’ “Save Our Homes” proposal, which would increase Florida’s homestead exemption and eliminate property taxes for qualifying properties over a two-year schedule. Speaking to Mid Bay News on Wednesday, Calkins said the proposal’s passing would be “the best thing ever to […]
Commissioners and Their Opponents Make Introductions to Merchants in Freeport
Walton County commission candidates met with Freeport business owners to discuss growth, infrastructure, beach access, and taxes ahead of the August 18 primary election.
Big Florida Energy: Suspect demands Niceville police stop chasing him
A high-speed pursuit on June 12, 2026, spiraled into a chaotic, multi-agency event reaching speeds of 117 mph. The suspect, 46-year-old William George Smolar, fled Niceville police in a black 2020 Kia Optima without headlights. The pursuit spanned two counties and included near-misses with civilians, a detour onto a residential lawn, and a bizarre phone call from the suspect demanding that authorities call off the chase. Smolar was ultimately apprehended by Walton County deputies and faces felony charges for fleeing and eluding, as well as multiple traffic violations.
Walton County surges Narcan stations to battle opioid overdoses
The Walton County Board of County Commissioners has unanimously supported “Revive Awareness Day,” a proclamation championed by Administrator Holly Holt to increase the availability of Naloxone (Narcan) and promote community-based opioid addiction resources. With 394 boxes of Naloxone deployed this year, the county continues to expand its emergency response efforts to combat the opioid crisis.
