Fort Walton Beach City Council approves rec center expansion, ballot amendment wording and representation changes

Busy night for Fort Walton Beach’s City Council 🏙️ — leaders approved a $7.5 million recreation complex expansion, agreed to study a new form of city government, and advanced charter amendments toward the 2026 ballot. Here’s what it all means for residents 👇
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.
Fort Walton Beach City Council puts charter reforms back to voters, rekindling debate over ‘will of the people’

Fort Walton Beach voters could soon decide again whether city officials should be paid and how much City Hall can spend each year. The council says it’s about fixing flaws — critics say it’s about ignoring the will of voters.
Fort Walton Beach Council backs tentative tax hike and $65.2 million budget for upcoming fiscal year

The Fort Walton Beach City Council advanced a $65.2 million budget and tentative millage rate after a tense debate over taxes and spending priorities.
Fort Walton Beach seeks Attorney General opinion on voter-approved budget cap

Fort Walton Beach is asking the Florida Attorney General to review whether its new charter amendment capping annual budget growth conflicts with state law, after the council approved the request in a 6–1 vote.
Fort Walton Beach backs FDOT plan to curb crashes at First Street and Beal Parkway

A Fort Walton Beach intersection with more than triple the crashes considered “hazardous” is getting a quick safety makeover — here’s what’s changing for drivers.
Fort Walton Beach moves to protect Chester Pruitt Park with Florida Historic Designation

Fort Walton Beach moves to protect Chester Pruitt Park with Florida Historic Designation Staff Reports August 13, 2025 2:48 pm Uncategorized In Brief: 🏛️ City Council votes 7-0 to seek historic designation for Chester Pruitt Park. 👮 Honors Chester Pruitt, the city’s first Black police officer, and his groundbreaking service. 🎉 Park’s designation would protect […]
Fort Walton Beach council rejects removal of charter chair over alleged confrontation

A heated clash, physical accusations, and a narrow vote—see why Fort Walton Beach’s council is divided over this explosive incident.