Walton County Faces A Budget Crunch – Commissioners Don’t Agree and Lack Set Priorities
Walton County commissioners debated hiring, spending, and priorities as officials prepare for possible property tax revenue losses.
Commissioners and Their Opponents Make Introductions to Merchants in Freeport
Walton County commission candidates met with Freeport business owners to discuss growth, infrastructure, beach access, and taxes ahead of the August 18 primary election.
A mysterious newcomer crashes the Walton Commission race.
A fourth candidate, Frederick Carley, has entered the race for Walton County Commissioner District 4 as a write-in candidate. His entry effectively closes the August 18 Republican primary, restricting voting access to registered Republicans and impacting the contest between incumbent Donna Johns, Jim Bagby, and James Calkins.
“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.
Should Walton County vehicles have logos? Commissioners debate
Walton County Commissioners had a spirited debate about the County logo on vehicles. Some want to ensure transparency, others want directors to have discretion. Here’s why they care so much:
Walton Commissioners Recognize Chair for Service and Leadership
As 2025 ends, Walton County Commissioners honor Chairwoman Donna Johns for her leadership and unanimously elect Brad Drake as the new Chair for 2026.
Walton County Commission deadlock on tourism leadership continues
The Walton County Commission once again failed to agree on whether to bring back an Executive Director of Tourism — a $400,000 position overseeing one of the county’s biggest industries.
Here’s what happened, who pushed for change, and what it means for the future of the $60 million tourism department.
Walton County renames Highway 393 North to Charlie Kirk Parkway
On what would have been Charlie Kirk’s 32nd birthday, Walton County commissioners voted unanimously to rename Highway 393 North in his honor.
Former Santa Rosa County Commissioner James Calkins launches campaign for Walton County seat
Former Santa Rosa County Commissioner James Calkins launches a bid for Walton County Commission District 4, promising conservative leadership amid lingering controversy over his past political conduct.
A Miccosukee Casino and New Office Space for Elected Officials? Here’s What Happened at Walton’s Commission Meeting.
Elected officials argue over office space, whether or not to talk to a Native American tribe in south Florida about business – and they decide to settle scores with the director of Sinfonia Gulf Coast.
