Fort Walton Beach Councilman warns charter review may overturn voter-backed amendments
Fort Walton Beach Councilman Payne Walker is challenging efforts by the Charter Review Committee to reverse voter-backed amendments, calling the move a threat to democratic accountability.
Okaloosa Deputy Killer Pleads to Murder
The man who killed Deputy Ray Hamilton on Christmas Eve 2022 has pleaded guilty to murder, avoiding trial and the death penalty in a deal supported by the deputy’s family.
Invest 93L brings rain, storm risk to Okaloosa County as system moves through Gulf
A tropical disturbance in the Gulf is expected to bring 2–4 inches of rain, choppy surf, and possible flash flooding to Okaloosa County, though significant development remains unlikely.
Officer Gerard Bhagwatsingh believes in community policing — and he’s living it every day
Officer Gerard Bhagwatsingh is redefining what it means to serve and protect in Fort Walton Beach, using empathy, relationships, and consistency to transform community policing.
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.
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.
Fort Walton Beach approves TrackMan golf upgrade to driving range, backed by user fees
The Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 5-1 to lease high-tech TrackMan golf equipment for the city’s driving range, a move officials say will modernize the facility, attract new users, and generate additional revenue — all without taxpayer burden.
New early Learning Center Coming to Fort Walton Beach’s Freedom Tech Center
A 16,000-square-foot childcare and early learning center, operated by Grow With Us Learning Academy, will open in 2026 at Fort Walton Beach’s Freedom Tech Center after the city council approved the development order.
Fort Walton Beach Council sets hearing after assault claim against Charter Chair
The Fort Walton Beach City Council will hold a hearing on July 8 to decide whether to remove Charter Review Committee Chair Mike Minich after allegations from former Councilman Travis Smith that Minich shoved him following a recent meeting.
Fort Walton Beach sets property tax rate at 4.3282 Mills for 2025-26 Budget
Even though the Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 4-3 to keep the millage rate the same, residents should still expect to pay more in property taxes next year due to rising property values.
