Inside Okaloosa County’s plans for the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Rigdon Center

Okaloosa County officials hope that with a little bit of time and effort now, the fairgrounds will be a place families can enjoy for decades to come.
Crestview official explains new $30M loan process

Crestview officials hope that a new $30M loan will be the first domino into a more successful future.
Florida ethics panel dismisses complaint against Fort Walton Beach councilman Bryce Jeter

State ethics officials closed a complaint against Councilman Bryce Jeter, finding no legal basis to pursue an ethics case even as disputes over a jailed homeownerโs property sale remain contested.
โThis Is About Controlโ: Destin Mayor Bobby Wagner speaks out on Norriego Point and state power

“What we were sold was conservation. “What we’re seeing now looks like commercialization dressed up as conservation.” Destin Mayor Bobby Wagner speaks his mind on local issues.
Okaloosa County Commission approves $17.7M for SR 85 widening, new sheriff’s office evidence facility

The Okaloosa County Commission approved major surtax investments for a State Road 85 widening project and a new sheriffโs office evidence facility as part of a long-term strategy to address growth, congestion and public safety without raising property taxes.
Okaloosa County Commission explores paid parking for non-county residents at beaches, parks

Okaloosa County leaders are taking the first steps toward paid parking at beaches and parks as officials look for new revenue sources to fund maintenance and offset potential state funding changes.
Connor Rooney’s breakout season leads him to claim Mid Bay News Defensive Player of the Year

From rotational player to defensive player of the year, South Walton LB Connor Rooney reflects on 2025 before beginning his senior season.
NAACP calls Gap Creek flooding an environmental justice crisis as local leaders emand Action in Fort Walton Beach

How long should a neighborhood live with flooding, mold, and contaminated water?
The NAACP says the answer for Sylvania Heights has been decades, and thatโs unacceptable.
Crestview begins major facilities overhaul With $30M bond approval

Crestview officials approved a bond financing framework of up to $30 million to modernize aging fire and public works facilities, marking the first step in a long-term infrastructure plan funded through non-ad valorem revenues.
Audit fallout and directorโs resignation leave Okaloosa County Transit at a crossroads

With an audit exposing years of oversight failures and the transit director announcing his resignation, Okaloosa County leaders are racing to stabilize a system facing financial questions, leadership turnover and an uncertain future.