Okaloosa Deputies, K9 Unit Apprehend Man Wanted on Multiple Domestic Battery Charges

An Okaloosa County Sheriffβs Office K9 unit, alongside correctional institution teams, tracked and apprehended Anthony McLeod of Laurel Hill on Saturday after he attempted to flee through a swamp. Mcleod faces multiple domestic battery and criminal mischief charges.
Week 6 Recap: Niceville flexes muscle, SoWal beats Walton

Week 6 football action marked the beginning of district play for many local teams.
Okaloosa Commission begins deliberation on 2026 legislative priorities

Okaloosa County is asking the state for nearly $200 million to widen State Road 85 while also pushing policy stances on gun rights, mental health diversion, and homestead exemptions.
Do you think these should be the countyβs top priorities?
Crestview Council approves $81.2M tentative budget, slight Tax Rate Increase

Crestview just approved its tentative budget and tax rate β but residents raised sharp questions about police staffing, firefighter pay, and city spending priorities.
Crestview approves $164K in Federal Grants for park path, assisted living upgrades and community programs

Crestview City Council approved its 2025 Annual Action Plan, allocating $164,652 in federal CDBG funds for local projects, including a downtown-to-park recreational path, assisted living facility upgrades, nonprofit support, and security camera installations.
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.
Kristen Shell named Okaloosa Countyβs next Growth Management Director

Kristen Shell, a veteran planner with over two decades of experience in Northwest Florida, has been unanimously confirmed as Okaloosa Countyβs new Growth Management Director.
Okaloosa County approves $1.87M study to support Eglin West Gate Redevelopment

Okaloosa County approves $1.87M study to support Eglin West Gate Redevelopment Staff Reports July 2, 2025 9:08 pm Uncategorized In Brief: π οΈ County commissioners approved a $1.87 million study to plan infrastructure upgrades near Eglin AFBβs West Gate as part of a long-term redevelopment vision. π€ The agreement extends a contract with HDR Engineering and […]
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.
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: πΎ PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. π New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. ποΈ Officials weigh […]