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 county’s $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 — but not everyone agrees it’s a good idea. Officials say it won’t 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! Baker’s cruising, Choctaw’s chasing another title, and Niceville’s 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 it’s about fixing flaws — critics say it’s 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 nonprofit’s 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: 🏞️ County unveils concept for 1.6-mile community park 👨👩👧👦 Residents helped design features and layout 🐾 Trails, playgrounds, and river overlooks planned Share This Story! CRESTVIEW — 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.
Rep. Jimmy Patronis declines to clarify key policy positions as data contradicts claims
Rep. Jimmy Patronis declined Mid Bay News’s follow-up questions but defended conservative healthcare, border, and transparency positions in earlier interviews.
