Okaloosa County opposes Gulf drilling, citing national security and tourism risks
Okaloosa County Commissioners just took a firm stand against any effort to resume drilling in the eastern Gulf, saying it would threaten Eglin’s mission and the region’s multibillion-dollar tourism economy.
Okaloosa County to Observe Veterans Day with Unveiling of New Women Veteran Statues
Okaloosa County will mark Veterans Day with a ceremony at the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Convention Center, featuring the unveiling of two new statues honoring women veterans, including Marine Sgt. Nicole L. Gee and an Iroquois Warrior Woman from the War of 1812. The statues will later be added to the Women Veterans Monuments at Veterans Park on Okaloosa Island.
Sjoberg Named to Okaloosa Surtax Committee
Local developer and Mid Bay News co-host Paul Sjoberg has been appointed to the Okaloosa Half Cent Surtax Committee, where he will help guide the county’s continued growth and infrastructure development.
Air Force Enlisted Village Breaks Ground on Village 7
The Air Force Enlisted Village in Shalimar has broken ground on its seventh residential community, expanding housing and support for retired enlisted Airmen and their spouses.
Sen. Don Gaetz weighs in on $83M state purchase of Norriego Point
Florida plans to spend $83 million to purchase four acres of waterfront land at Norriego Point in Destin for public park and marina use, a move praised by Okaloosa County officials but questioned by Sen. Don Gaetz over the high price compared with the county’s $10.5 million appraisal.
Okaloosa County to break ground on $16.75 million Tarpon Beach Park
City and county officials will break ground on Tarpon Beach Gulf Front Park in Destin on July 7, a $16.75 million project expanding public access to the Gulf with new amenities and free parking.
Okaloosa Approves Agreement to Fight For Destin Underpass
A $20 million pedestrian underpass could soon change how people cross one of Destin’s most hazardous intersections — if local leaders can secure federal funding in time.
Okaloosa to Do “Deeper Audit” After Letter From Chairman
Is Okaloosa County wasting taxpayer money? Commissioners weigh in as the county freezes hiring and undergoes an internal audit—some welcome the scrutiny, while others say it’s unnecessary and frustrating.
Fundraiser Announced for Family of 7SFG Sergeant Killed in Freak Accident
A community fundraiser will honor Tommy Lazzaro, a former Central Michigan University football player and Special Forces soldier, who tragically died just a day after learning he would become a father.
Experts Say THIS Will Bring BIG $ to Okaloosa, But Commissioners Just Pulled it From Their Annual Wishlist
The Okaloosa County Commission voted unanimously to remove a $1.5 million funding request for the sinking of the historic SS United States as an artificial reef off Destin from its legislative priorities, citing economic concerns and public optics despite projections of significant tourism revenue.
