Walton County Sheriff rebukes Kyle Rittenhouse’s ‘Stand Your Ground’ claims in DeFuniak Springs shooting
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office is pushing back hard after Kyle Rittenhouse claimed a DeFuniak Springs shooting was lawful self-defense. Sheriff Michael Adkinson says the victim was unarmed on his own property and calls the commentary “wildly irresponsible.”
Business leaders urge Okaloosa County to renew half-cent infrastructure surtax
Okaloosa’s business community is pushing to renew the county’s half-cent surtax — a tax they say has fueled more than $136 million in improvements and unlocked nearly $300 million in grants. Commissioners say voters now have something they didn’t in 2018: results.
Okaloosa County approves concept plans for new youth sports complex in Baker
The Okaloosa County Commission approved a conceptual plan for a new multipurpose athletic complex in Baker, expanding recreational opportunities for youth sports.
Okaloosa County allocates $5M to cap remaining dirt roads in “50 in 5” project
Big news for Okaloosa County roads! Commissioners approved $5 million to cap the final 52 miles of stabilized dirt roads, finishing a project that has already upgraded nearly 200 miles.
Okaloosa Superintendent recommends closing Mary Esther and Longwood Elementary Schools amid sharp enrollment declines
Superintendent Marcus Chambers is recommending the closure of Mary Esther and Longwood Elementary Schools due to declining enrollment and budget pressures. Families will have a chance to weigh in at a public hearing in February.
Okaloosa approves millions more for SS United States reef project
The amendment brings the project budget to $10.18 million — but officials say no local tax dollars will be used as remediation nears completion in Mobile.
Okaloosa County launches full opposition to Alabama CO₂ Injection Project citing aquifer threat
Okaloosa County is launching a full-scale fight against a proposed Alabama CO₂ storage project commissioners say threatens Florida’s drinking water and river systems.
Okaloosa County Commissioners freeze transit deal after scathing oversight audit
A scathing audit forced Okaloosa County to pause a new transit contract with MV Transportation as commissioners confront years of oversight failures and nearly $1 million in overpayments.
Crestview approves first reading of commercial photography ordinance for parks
Crestview moves to allow commercial photography in parks with safety protocols, including background checks for photographers working with youth sports.
Crestview City Council approves first-reading E-Bike and Scooter ordinance
Crestview moves to standardize e-bike and scooter rules! From helmet requirements to downtown sidewalk bans, learn how the new ordinance could affect your ride.
