Okaloosa Sheriff disables social media comments after police shooting
After a deputy mistook an acorn for gunfire and opened fire on a handcuffed man, the sheriff’s office shut off all public comments — but offered little explanation why.
Fort Walton Beach Councilman warns charter review may overturn voter-backed amendments
Fort Walton Beach Councilman Payne Walker is challenging efforts by the Charter Review Committee to reverse voter-backed amendments, calling the move a threat to democratic accountability.
Mary Esther eyes public safety contracts amid budget deficit, capital projects
With a deficit budget on the table and millions in capital projects ahead, Mary Esther’s leaders are asking a bold question: Are taxpayers getting what they pay for in public safety?
Destin council moves to rein in E-Bike speeds, citing safety and enforcement concerns
Destin is drafting tougher e-bike rules in response to safety and enforcement concerns, with new speed limits and broader micro-mobility regulations expected by September.
Okaloosa County keeps property tax rate flat for FY2026, advances $687M budget amid surging property values
Okaloosa County keeps property tax rate flat for FY2026, advances $687M budget amid surging property values Collin Bestor July 24, 2025 5:00 pm Okaloosa County In Brief: 🏡 No Property Tax Increase: The county’s ad valorem rate remains at 3.8308 mills for the eighth consecutive year. 📈 $687 Million Budget: Growth in property values helps […]
Okaloosa Departments Made $60 Million in Budget Requests. Here’s What They Want it For:
Okaloosa Budget: Workshop highlights public safety, health, jail and tourism Collin Bestor July 24, 2025 1:15 pm Okaloosa County In Brief: 💰 $60 million in budget requests highlight critical needs across elections, public safety, and corrections as Okaloosa County plans for FY2026. 🚔 The county jail is operating 25% over capacity, prompting new officer training […]
Crestview and Shalimar families receive life-changing HVAC donations from local company
Two Okaloosa County families facing severe medical and financial challenges received free HVAC systems from Mills Heating & Air through its annual “Neighbor in Need” giveaway, bringing them critical relief and renewed comfort.
Niceville resident Col. Steven Butler dies from injuries after State Road 20 crash
Retired Army Col. Steven Butler died from injuries sustained in a July 3 crash and is being remembered for his military service, community involvement, and devotion to family.
Officer Gerard Bhagwatsingh believes in community policing — and he’s living it every day
Officer Gerard Bhagwatsingh is redefining what it means to serve and protect in Fort Walton Beach, using empathy, relationships, and consistency to transform community policing.
Here’s how local players rank in NCAA Football 26
From the Friday night lights to the national spotlight—meet the Panhandle athletes shining in NCAA Football 26.
