Fort Walton Beach Council delays $7M rec complex, approves new PAWS contract, advances charter changes
Fort Walton Beach officials approved a new PAWS contract, postponed a recreation complex expansion, and advanced two charter amendments on election timing and mayoral pay.
‘No Kings’ rally draws large crowd in Fort Walton Beach
Hundreds gathered at The Landing this weekend for Fort Walton Beach’s second “No Kings” rally — part of a nationwide day of demonstrations. Attendees say the growing turnout shows more locals are ready to take part in civic action and community change.
Walton County renames Highway 393 North to Charlie Kirk Parkway
On what would have been Charlie Kirk’s 32nd birthday, Walton County commissioners voted unanimously to rename Highway 393 North in his honor.
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 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.
