Today in History: The Mid-Bay Bridge opens with stampede of runners
On June 27, 1993, 5,200 runners from across the country came to inaugurate the Mid-Bay Bridge with a 5K run across the span. Florida Governor ‘Walkin Lawton’ Chiles pulled the trigger on the starting gun and set the runners on their way to Destin across the 3.6 mile structure above the Choctawhatchee Bay. The bridge, which was built for $81 million and initially cost $2 to cross each way, cut off about 25 minutes of travel time and was finished five months ahead of schedule.
What you want to know about Florida’s controversial property tax idea on the official 2026 ballot.
Voters in Florida will decide on an amendment this November that would significantly increase the homestead exemption, potentially eliminating non-school property taxes and providing savings for long-term residents. However, this change is expected to create “crushing deficits” for local governments, which rely on property taxes to fund essential services like law enforcement and fire protection. Furthermore, a clause requiring five years of residency to receive the new, additional exemptions would place a “heavier load” of increased taxes on active-duty military members and other new residents in the short term, as local governments may be forced to raise millage rates to offset revenue loss.
“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.
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.
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.
Okaloosa County promotes Scott Bitterman to be Public Works Director
Interm no longer. The Okaloosa County Commission approved Scott Bitterman to become the county’s permanent public works director.
Reclaimed Water, Lower Costs, Another Step Closer to Reality In East Niceville
The City of Niceville has moved forward with plans to create a purple pipe pathway for reclaimed water, with an agreement signed at their recent council meeting. This agreement involves Okaloosa County’s assistance in installing the system, pending final approvals and permits from Eglin Air Force Base.
Okaloosa School Board Buys Land In Deer Moss Creek
Okaloosa School Board votes unanimously to secure land for potential future school expansion.
