Destin leaders advance Threadgill Park improvements, explore land buy for parking relief

The Destin City Council is backing a major upgrade to Threadgill Parkโs ballfields and considering new land for parking.
Destin eyes hard cap on pontoon and livery rentals with new ordinance

Destin is moving toward capping livery vessels at 490 and adding strict safety and permit rules, in what could become the cityโs biggest shakeup of its boating industry in years.
Destin approves $3.3M sheriffโs contract despite rising costs

Destin City Council approved a $3.3 million contract with the Okaloosa County Sheriffโs Office, but officials voiced concerns about rising costs, fairness of raises, and whether residents or tourists should bear the burden.
Florida officials warn residents as peak hurricane season begins

Florida officials warn residents as peak hurricane season begins Staff Reports August 18, 2025 10:43 am Uncategorized In Brief: ๐ช๏ธ Peak Season Alert: 93% of hurricanes make landfall between Aug. 15 and Oct. 15. ๐ฆ Prep Now: Officials urged Floridians to build supply kits, plan evacuations, and protect insurance claims. ๐ Donโt Forget Pets: New […]
Okaloosa County eyes $824K contract with PAWS for animal control services

Okaloosa County could approve a higher-priced, one-year animal control contract with PAWS to maintain services for unincorporated areas starting September 1.
Walton County Commission rejects defunding Economic Development Alliance

After fiery debate and sharp words over job creation and tax dollars, Walton Countyโs leaders hit pause on defunding the EDA โ for now.
Walton County Commission at odds on upcoming tax rate

In a tense meeting, Walton County leaders wrestled with a question that could define next yearโs budget: cut taxes or fix long-neglected infrastructure?
Judge dismisses negligence claims against apartment complex in Roger Fortson shooting case

Negligence claims against the complex where Airman Roger Fortson was killed have been dismissed, but the civil rights case against Okaloosa Countyโs sheriff and a former deputy moves forward.
Crestview approves $164K in Federal Grants for park path, assisted living upgrades and community programs

Crestview City Council approved its 2025 Annual Action Plan, allocating $164,652 in federal CDBG funds for local projects, including a downtown-to-park recreational path, assisted living facility upgrades, nonprofit support, and security camera installations.
Fort Walton Beach eyes voluntary state “DOGE” audit amid $8M budget gap

Fort Walton Beach is requesting a voluntary state DOGE audit while navigating an $8 million budget shortfall and working within new voter-imposed spending caps ahead of finalizing its 2025-26 budget.