Destin approves $3.3M sheriff’s contract despite rising costs
Destin City Council approved a $3.3 million contract with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, but officials voiced concerns about rising costs, fairness of raises, and whether residents or tourists should bear the burden.
Florida officials warn residents as peak hurricane season begins
Florida officials warn residents as peak hurricane season begins Staff Reports August 18, 2025 10:43 am Uncategorized In Brief: 🌪️ Peak Season Alert: 93% of hurricanes make landfall between Aug. 15 and Oct. 15. 📦 Prep Now: Officials urged Floridians to build supply kits, plan evacuations, and protect insurance claims. 🐕 Don’t Forget Pets: New […]
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 County’s leaders hit pause on defunding the EDA — 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 year’s 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 County’s 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 “hazardous” is getting a quick safety makeover — here’s what’s changing for drivers.
