City Manager secures lease agreement for Twin Oaks Park

After years of discussion, the Niceville City Council unanimously approved a resolution to execute a 30-year lease agreement with the U.S. Department of Air Force for the Twin Oaks Park Mullet Festival Site at Tuesday’s meeting. City Manager David Deitch said he’d been negotiating with Eglin Air Force Base, which owns the land, for “almost […]
Statewide Award Highlights Massive Economic Growth in Crestview

One Okaloosa EDC earned statewide recognition for helping land the billion-dollar Williams International manufacturing project in Crestview.
Walton TDC wants a Tractor Museum. What will it cost?

Forget the beach: North Walton County’s plan to lure tourism dollars hinges on a $5.25 million collection of antique John Deere and Caterpillar tractors. The TDC unanimously recommended using marketing funds to buy this “product,” which proponents say is the cornerstone attraction needed to drive visitors north and support young farmers.1
Inside Okaloosa County’s plans for the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Rigdon Center

Okaloosa County officials hope that with a little bit of time and effort now, the fairgrounds will be a place families can enjoy for decades to come.
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.
Florida Chamber President: Emerald Coast Must ‘Play the Long Game’ to Secure Economic Future

Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson told Emerald Coast business leaders that Florida’s growth depends on long-term planning, investment in early education, and local collaboration. Speaking alongside former Niceville City Councilman Sal Nodjomian, Wilson highlighted challenges such as housing affordability and retaining young workers while projecting that Florida could become the world’s 10th largest economy by 2030.
Okaloosa County approves tax exemption for Talking Parents Expansion

Okaloosa County approved a tax break for Talking Parents to expand its headquarters, bringing high-wage tech jobs to the area.
Congratulations! You* Just Bought The Red Lobster In Fort Walton Beach

What’s next for the former Red Lobster in Fort Walton Beach? You* just bought it—here’s what they might do with the prime waterfront property.
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.
Is This Tax Incentive For Big Corporations Something You Should Vote For In November?

Will Okaloosa County continue its tax breaks for big businesses, or will local concerns tip the balance? Find out what’s at stake in the upcoming November 2024 referendum.