DeSantis Signs Florida Budget, Could Veto $80 Million in Okaloosa and Walton Projects
Florida’s new state budget includes $2 billion in tax cuts but places more than $80 million in local Panhandle projects in jeopardy amid a wave of vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Tropical system could develop in Gulf ahead of July 4, Okaloosa officials monitoring
Public safety officials in Okaloosa County are urging residents to stay weather-aware as a tropical disturbance could form offshore during the July 4 holiday.
Fort Walton Beach approves TrackMan golf upgrade to driving range, backed by user fees
The Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 5-1 to lease high-tech TrackMan golf equipment for the city’s driving range, a move officials say will modernize the facility, attract new users, and generate additional revenue — all without taxpayer burden.
New early Learning Center Coming to Fort Walton Beach’s Freedom Tech Center
A 16,000-square-foot childcare and early learning center, operated by Grow With Us Learning Academy, will open in 2026 at Fort Walton Beach’s Freedom Tech Center after the city council approved the development order.
Fort Walton Beach Council sets hearing after assault claim against Charter Chair
The Fort Walton Beach City Council will hold a hearing on July 8 to decide whether to remove Charter Review Committee Chair Mike Minich after allegations from former Councilman Travis Smith that Minich shoved him following a recent meeting.
Fort Walton Beach sets property tax rate at 4.3282 Mills for 2025-26 Budget
Even though the Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 4-3 to keep the millage rate the same, residents should still expect to pay more in property taxes next year due to rising property values.
Okaloosa County School Board approves new leadership
Okaloosa County School Board approves new leadership at Elliot Point, Davidson Collin Bestor June 24, 2025 2:18 pm Schools and Education In Brief: 🏫 Laura King promoted to principal at Davidson Middle School after nearly two decades in Okaloosa classrooms. 🌍 Eva Ratley named assistant principal at Elliott Point, bringing global teaching experience and fresh […]
Fort Walton Beach Barbershop Goes Viral for ‘Minecraft Haircut,’ Builds Community One Cut at a Time
Fort Walton Beach Barbershop Goes Viral for ‘Minecraft Haircut,’ Builds Community One Cut at a Time Collin Bestor June 24, 2025 4:00 pm Fort Walton Beach In Brief: 💈 A playful, accidental haircut resembling a Minecraft character brought millions of views and national attention to The Gryms Men barbershop. 🐶 The shop is turning its […]
Okaloosa County School District looks to cut costs as budget deliberations begin
Okaloosa school leaders unveiled a balanced but trimmed-down budget focused on staffing changes and capital reallocation to manage ongoing financial pressure without cutting school-level resources.
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 6:21 pm Mary Esther In Brief: 🐾 PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. 📈 New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. 🏛️ Officials weigh […]
