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.
Fort Walton Beach approves interlocal agreement with Okaloosa County for ‘Around the Mound’

A major plan to divert U.S. 98 traffic around downtown Fort Walton Beach just got a funding boost, and leaders say it could clear the cones from your commute in less than a decade.
Fort Walton Beach backs FDOT plan to curb crashes at First Street and Beal Parkway

A Fort Walton Beach intersection with more than triple the crashes considered โhazardousโ is getting a quick safety makeover โ hereโs whatโs changing for drivers.
Fort Walton Beach moves to ‘plainly audible’ noise ordinance, expands exemptions

Fort Walton Beach is turning down the volume on its old noise law, and turning up enforcement with a โplainly audibleโ rule police say will finally work.
Crestview City Council reviews 2025-26 budget with focus on public safety and downtown revitalization

Crestview officials propose a balanced 2025-26 budget emphasizing public safety, community recreation, and downtown events while maintaining a low millage rate.