Fort Walton Beach seeks Attorney General opinion on voter-approved budget cap
Fort Walton Beach is asking the Florida Attorney General to review whether its new charter amendment capping annual budget growth conflicts with state law, after the council approved the request in a 6–1 vote.
Fort Walton Beach considers voter referendum to move city elections to November
Fort Walton Beach leaders want residents to decide when local elections are held — would you support moving them to November alongside statewide races?
Destin adopts social media policy for officials, prompting concerns over free speech
What counts as a Sunshine Law violation in the digital age? Destin officials just drew a hard line — and not everyone’s ready to log off.
‘People Are Screaming:’ New Florida Law Sows Chaos For Local Governments Land Development
DeFuniak Springs forges ahead with a major rewrite of its Land Development Code, navigating new state legislation that could delay its stricter regulations for years.
Destin bonfire ordinance dies on floor without a second
Destin bonfire ordinance dies on floor without a second Collin Bestor July 9, 2025 12:30 am Destin In Brief: 🔥 Destin residents overwhelmingly opposed allowing beach bonfires during a heated public hearing. 🚫 Council members rejected a proposal to draft an ordinance for fires on private property after strong public backlash. 🌊 Residents cited code […]
Kristen Shell named Okaloosa County’s next Growth Management Director
Kristen Shell, a veteran planner with over two decades of experience in Northwest Florida, has been unanimously confirmed as Okaloosa County’s new Growth Management Director.
Niceville Names New Fire Chief
The City of Niceville introduces Alex Kukulus as its new fire chief, with a public ceremony scheduled for July 11 to mark the leadership transition.
This Student May Save Niceville Elementary Schoolers Lives With An Idea
A Rocky Bayou Christian School fifth-grader’s letter to the city led to a new sidewalk installation near Plew Elementary School in Niceville, improving safety for student pedestrians.
“I Am Innocent” Former Walton Leader Robertson Will Fight Firing, Felony Charges
Fired and now facing felony charges, Walton County’s former top official says it’s all because he tried to expose corruption—hear his side of the story.
Niceville Teens Win 2025 Youth Council Excellence Award for Spreading Holiday Cheer to Seniors, Veterans
A group of Niceville high school students made the entire city proud and picked up a statewide award while they were at it. The Florida League of Cities announced that the Niceville Youth Advisory Council is one of three 2025 Youth Council Excellence Award winners. The honor recognizes student-led projects that make a meaningful difference […]
