Okaloosa County approves sidewalks, park upgrades and 2026 legislative priorities

Okaloosa County leaders advanced major community projects and set their 2026 legislative agenda during a packed Oct. 7 meeting covering sidewalks, parks, tourism, and safety initiatives.
Okaloosa County promotes Scott Bitterman to be Public Works Director

Interm no longer. The Okaloosa County Commission approved Scott Bitterman to become the county’s permanent public works director.
Okaloosa County eyes $824K contract with PAWS for animal control services

Okaloosa County could approve a higher-priced, one-year animal control contract with PAWS to maintain services for unincorporated areas starting September 1.
Kristen Shell named Okaloosa Countyโs next Growth Management Director

Kristen Shell, a veteran planner with over two decades of experience in Northwest Florida, has been unanimously confirmed as Okaloosa Countyโs new Growth Management Director.
Highway 98 shoreline project moves closer to reality with federal boost

The Highway 98 Living Shoreline Project on Okaloosa Island is moving into final design and permitting, thanks to $284,000 in new federal funding and no added county costs.
Okaloosa Commissioners May Buy This Piece Of Niceville-Area Land To Build Affordable Housing

๐ก Okaloosa County Commissioners consider buying part of Eglin Golf Course for affordable housing. ๐ค Concerns arise, but a potential solution to the housing problem is on the table!