Okaloosa Departments Made $60 Million in Budget Requests. Here’s What They Want it For:
Okaloosa Budget: Workshop highlights public safety, health, jail and tourism Collin Bestor July 24, 2025 1:15 pm Okaloosa County In Brief: 💰 $60 million in budget requests highlight critical needs across elections, public safety, and corrections as Okaloosa County plans for FY2026. 🚔 The county jail is operating 25% over capacity, prompting new officer training […]
Crestview and Shalimar families receive life-changing HVAC donations from local company
Two Okaloosa County families facing severe medical and financial challenges received free HVAC systems from Mills Heating & Air through its annual “Neighbor in Need” giveaway, bringing them critical relief and renewed comfort.
Niceville resident Col. Steven Butler dies from injuries after State Road 20 crash
Retired Army Col. Steven Butler died from injuries sustained in a July 3 crash and is being remembered for his military service, community involvement, and devotion to family.
Officer Gerard Bhagwatsingh believes in community policing — and he’s living it every day
Officer Gerard Bhagwatsingh is redefining what it means to serve and protect in Fort Walton Beach, using empathy, relationships, and consistency to transform community policing.
Tropic Watch: Okaloosa officials monitoring possible development
A storm brewing in the Gulf may soon earn a name—find out what forecasters are saying and how local officials are preparing.
Here’s how local players rank in NCAA Football 26
From the Friday night lights to the national spotlight—meet the Panhandle athletes shining in NCAA Football 26.
We Asked Congressman Jimmy Patronis About His Biden Bill, Iran, Affordable Housing and More:
Mid Bay News’s Colin Bestor sat down with new Florida Congressman Jimmy Patronis to talk about his new gig in Washington, D.C., and what he plans to do for the people of the Florida Panhandle. Plus, you can submit your questions for our next interview.
Fort Walton Beach council rejects removal of charter chair over alleged confrontation
A heated clash, physical accusations, and a narrow vote—see why Fort Walton Beach’s council is divided over this explosive incident.
Okaloosa County unveils $687M budget, millage stays flat while property taxes go up
Despite an unchanged millage rate for Okaloosa County, residents should expect to pay more due to rising property taxes.
Destin approves Alvin’s Island redevelopment after 2021 fire
The Destin City Council unanimously approved a new Alvin’s Island store on U.S. 98, marking the chain’s comeback more than three years after its original location burned down.
