City Leaders Clash as Taxpayer Protection Measure Draws New Criticism
What began as a promise to protect taxpayers is now being labeled a costly experiment, as Fort Walton Beach officials warn that a 3% budget cap is shrinking services, driving staff away, and inflating long-term costs.
Fort Walton Beach recommends elevated flyover option for “Around the Mound” project
With billions in traffic, military access, and downtown development on the line, Fort Walton Beach leaders say this may be their one shot to get the U.S. 98 reroute right.
Fort Walton Beach City Council approves rec center expansion, ballot amendment wording and representation changes
Busy night for Fort Walton Beach’s City Council 🏙️ — leaders approved a $7.5 million recreation complex expansion, agreed to study a new form of city government, and advanced charter amendments toward the 2026 ballot. Here’s what it all means for residents 👇
Fort Walton Beach Council delays $7M rec complex, approves new PAWS contract, advances charter changes
Fort Walton Beach officials approved a new PAWS contract, postponed a recreation complex expansion, and advanced two charter amendments on election timing and mayoral pay.
Fort Walton Beach accepts $152k ICE grant under 287(g) program
Fort Walton Beach will take $152,500 in federal ICE funds to support its 287(g) immigration partnership — but not everyone agrees it’s a good idea. Officials say it won’t change local policing, while residents voiced strong opinions on both sides.
Fort Walton Beach eyes voluntary state “DOGE” audit amid $8M budget gap
Fort Walton Beach is requesting a voluntary state DOGE audit while navigating an $8 million budget shortfall and working within new voter-imposed spending caps ahead of finalizing its 2025-26 budget.
Fort Walton Beach approves interlocal agreement with Okaloosa County for ‘Around the Mound’
A major plan to divert U.S. 98 traffic around downtown Fort Walton Beach just got a funding boost, and leaders say it could clear the cones from your commute in less than a decade.
Fort Walton Beach moves to protect Chester Pruitt Park with Florida Historic Designation
Fort Walton Beach moves to protect Chester Pruitt Park with Florida Historic Designation Staff Reports August 13, 2025 2:48 pm Uncategorized In Brief: 🏛️ City Council votes 7-0 to seek historic designation for Chester Pruitt Park. 👮 Honors Chester Pruitt, the city’s first Black police officer, and his groundbreaking service. 🎉 Park’s designation would protect […]
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.
