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.
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 “plainly audible” 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.
Fort Walton Beach OKs $415K no-bid contract for new downtown parking lot

With downtown parking spots disappearing fast, Fort Walton Beach is skipping the bidding process to get a new lot built in record time.
Fort Walton Beach moves to protect Chester Pruitt Park with Florida Historic Designation

Fort Walton Beach moves to protect Chester Pruitt Park with Florida Historic Designation Staff Reports August 13, 2025 2:48 pm Uncategorized In Brief: 🏛️ City Council votes 7-0 to seek historic designation for Chester Pruitt Park. 👮 Honors Chester Pruitt, the city’s first Black police officer, and his groundbreaking service. 🎉 Park’s designation would protect […]
Okaloosa School Board named Ruckel Middle School cafetorium after former principal

The Okaloosa County School Board voted to name Ruckel Middle School’s new cafetorium after former principal Dr. Virginia “Ginny” Morgan, honoring her decades of student-focused leadership and transformative programs.