Former Santa Rosa County Commissioner James Calkins launches campaign for Walton County seat

Former Santa Rosa County Commissioner James Calkins launches a bid for Walton County Commission District 4, promising conservative leadership amid lingering controversy over his past political conduct.
Sen. Don Gaetz weighs in on $83M state purchase of Norriego Point

Florida plans to spend $83 million to purchase four acres of waterfront land at Norriego Point in Destin for public park and marina use, a move praised by Okaloosa County officials but questioned by Sen. Don Gaetz over the high price compared with the countyโs $10.5 million appraisal.
Okaloosa County approves sidewalks, park upgrades and 2026 legislative priorities

Okaloosa County leaders advanced major community projects and set their 2026 legislative agenda during a packed Oct. 7 meeting covering sidewalks, parks, tourism, and safety initiatives.
Fort Walton Beach accepts $152k ICE grant under 287(g) program

Fort Walton Beach will take $152,500 in federal ICE funds to support its 287(g) immigration partnership โ but not everyone agrees itโs a good idea. Officials say it wonโt change local policing, while residents voiced strong opinions on both sides.
Playoff Push: Baker dominates, Choctaw cruises, Niceville hangs on

The playoff race is heating up in Northwest Florida! Bakerโs cruising, Choctawโs chasing another title, and Nicevilleโs fighting to stay alive.
See where your team stands heading into the final three weeks of the regular season.
Fort Walton Beach City Council puts charter reforms back to voters, rekindling debate over ‘will of the people’

Fort Walton Beach voters could soon decide again whether city officials should be paid and how much City Hall can spend each year. The council says itโs about fixing flaws โ critics say itโs about ignoring the will of voters.
Sims-Lohman opens new facility in Crestview, bringing 90 new jobs to Okaloosa County

Big news for Crestview! Ohio-based Sims-Lohman just cut the ribbon on a massive new Gulf Coast hub, a 63,000 sq. ft. of fabrication and distribution space, and is set to create 90 new jobs in Okaloosa County.
Destin renews PAWS contract; Mary Esther hesitates amid stability concerns

Destin renewed its annual animal control contract with PAWS for $92,761, while Mary Esther delayed its decision amid doubts about the nonprofitโs financial stability and contract terms.
Okaloosa County Commission approves conceptual plans for new park

Okaloosa County Commission approves conceptual plans for new park Staff Reports October 8, 2025 12:32 am Uncategorized In Brief: ๐๏ธ County unveils concept for 1.6-mile community park ๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Residents helped design features and layout ๐พ Trails, playgrounds, and river overlooks planned Share This Story! CRESTVIEW โ Okaloosa County officials unveiled conceptual plans Tuesday for a […]
Destin Council seeks federal help to fix East Pass navigation hazards after boat collisions

Destin officials are pushing for federal and state support to repair and light East Pass navigation markers after recent collisions and near-misses.