‘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 — 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.
‘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 city’s 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 water—Mary Esther’s leaders explain how it happened, what it’ll cost, and what’s 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.
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 6:21 pm Mary Esther In Brief: 🐾 PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. 📈 New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. 🏛️ Officials weigh […]
Over Before It Begins – The Race For Niceville Council, Mayor Decided.
Niceville will welcome Heath Rominger and Doug Tolbert to the City Council in March, following the departure of Sal Nodjomian and Carl Donahoo.
