Commissioner Calls Out Tax Break: A Race To The Bottom?

Okaloosa County Commissioner Nathan Boyles cast the sole dissenting vote against placing a referendum on the November ballot to extend a tax exemption for qualifying companies. Boyles, who originally supported the measure a decade ago, now argues the tax creates unfair competition, offers minimal benefit, and incurs high compliance costs. Despite his concerns, the referendum was approved, with proponents arguing that the exemption has attracted significant investment and job creation to the county.
No More Lobbying Budget for Mid-Bay Bridge Authority
In an unprecedented move, The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners exercised its right to cut $72,000 in lobbying and advertising from the Mid-Bay Bridge Authorityβs budget for Fiscal Year 22-23.