Crestview City Council approves first-reading E-Bike and Scooter ordinance

Crestview moves to standardize e-bike and scooter rules! From helmet requirements to downtown sidewalk bans, learn how the new ordinance could affect your ride.
Here’s What Happened at Defuniak’s Latest Council Meeting

A DeFuniak Springs City Council meeting reveals ongoing tensions over historic district design standards and an extended tenure for the interim finance director amidst a challenging search for a permanent replacement.
‘Mudslinging’ Says Mayor, Defuniak Council Spars Over CRA

Amidst internal tensions and a failed attempt to abolish the Community Redevelopment Agency, DeFuniak Springs City Council grapples with its strategic role in urban revitalization, property abatements, and addressing key leadership vacancies
Niceville Responds to First Amendment Audit

Niceville’s City Council addresses a new trespass ordinance, the impact of school zone cameras, and ongoing infrastructure projects in their October meeting.
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 β but not everyone agrees itβs a good idea. Officials say it wonβt change local policing, while residents voiced strong opinions on both sides.
‘People Are Screaming:’ New Florida Law Sows Chaos For Local Governments Land Development

DeFuniak Springs forges ahead with a major rewrite of its Land Development Code, navigating new state legislation that could delay its stricter regulations for years.
Crestview officials, residents clash over policing, permits at May Day celebration

Crestview officials, police, and residents are at odds over policing and permits at the cityβs May Day celebration, sparking calls for reform and a community-led planning committee.
Mary Esther still without animal control after PAWS cancels contract, city seeks alternatives

Mary Esther is still without animal control services after PAWS canceled its contract, leaving city leaders scrambling for solutions and demanding fairness in future agreements.
Mary Esther officials outline fixes after citywide water outage exposes infrastructure flaws

A crash, a buried valve, and a city left without waterβMary Estherβs leaders explain how it happened, what itβll cost, and whatβs next.
New early Learning Center Coming to Fort Walton Beach’s Freedom Tech Center

A 16,000-square-foot childcare and early learning center, operated by Grow With Us Learning Academy, will open in 2026 at Fort Walton Beach’s Freedom Tech Center after the city council approved the development order.