Following first failure, Mapoles cajoles Florida to create Okaloosa County
The creation of Okaloosa County, Florida, was signed into law on June 3, 1915, by Governor Park Trammell. However, it was State Senator William Mapoles who led the heavy lifting to create the new county. After its incorporation, the political center was contested by Baker, Crestview, and Laurel Hill, with Crestview eventually being chosen as the county seat. Mapoles, a newspaper owner and State Senator, was successful in his 1915 effort, despite a previous unsuccessful attempt in 1913 to create “Yellow River” or “Wilson County”. His foresight proved crucial, as the county’s population grew rapidly over the next century, thanks in part to military installations secured by his rival, Bob Sikes.
“Stop Fighting and Start Fixing”: Jim Bagby Makes His Case in Walton County District 4
In a Republican primary that’s shaping up as a referendum on growth, governance, and the future of Walton County, Jim Bagby is pitching himself as the candidate of practical change — someone who wants fewer political fights and more long-delayed problems finally solved. Bagby, a former Destin City Councilman and longtime local leader, is running for Walton County Commission, District 4. He laid out specific benchmarks by which he says voters can judge his first term if he’s elected.
Okaloosa County Commissioners question license plate reader cameras
Are license plate readers a powerful crime-fighting tool, or a step too far into surveillance? Okaloosa County leaders just opened the debate.
Okaloosa County approves concept plans for new youth sports complex in Baker
The Okaloosa County Commission approved a conceptual plan for a new multipurpose athletic complex in Baker, expanding recreational opportunities for youth sports.
Okaloosa approves millions more for SS United States reef project
The amendment brings the project budget to $10.18 million — but officials say no local tax dollars will be used as remediation nears completion in Mobile.
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 County’s next Growth Management Director
Kristen Shell, a veteran planner with over two decades of experience in Northwest Florida, has been unanimously confirmed as Okaloosa County’s 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.
