Donalds talks property taxes, data centers, and law enforcement at Fort Walton Beach stop
At an Okaloosa County campaign rally, Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds presented his vision for affordability, property taxes, and public safety while navigating his relationship with national politics.
Bluewater Bay MSBU returns with new members after hiatus
After a three-month hiatus, Bluewater Bay’s Municipal Services Benefit Unit is back in operation with three new board members. The MSBU is planning public workshops, a town hall and pedestrian safety improvements while focusing on transparency, community input and landscaping projects throughout Bluewater Bay.
Showdown on Hollywood: County orders Fort Walton Beach to rip down unpermitted speed cameras
A months-long title search determined two Fort Walton Beach school-zone speed cameras on Hollywood Boulevard were installed in Okaloosa County’s right of way without permits. County commissioners voted unanimously to order their removal within a week and authorized road transfer negotiations strictly conditioned on a permanent prohibition of speed-zone cameras
Okaloosa commissioners reject 12-month data center moratorium 3-2 after hours of public opposition
Okaloosa County commissioners rejected a proposed 12-month moratorium on data centers in a 3-2 vote following passionate public opposition at Tuesday’s meeting. Despite strong calls from residents for an outright ban, the county will move forward with drafting regulations for data center development over the next 60 days.
Destin councilman arrested on felony theft charges
on September 11 following felony grand theft allegations. Braden is accused of taking money for an unlicensed home repair project, partially demolishing a deck, and abandoning it. A court hearing is scheduled for October 15, 2026.
Fiscal Reality or ‘Monopoly Money’? Commissioners Clash Over Discretionary Spending
As the Board of County Commissioners weighs the impact of a potential $4 million budget shortfall driven by Florida Amendment 3, a contentious debate has erupted over discretionary spending. Commissioners clashed over allocating funds to local groups, with resident Barbara Morano warning, “This money is not monopoly money.”
Fire Assessment Passes in DeFuniak Springs, but Many Questions Remain
The DeFuniak Springs City Council voted 3-2 to impose a $100 annual fire assessment on homeowners and businesses. The decision comes amid debate over the future of the city’s fire department, including a potential transfer to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office and concerns about costs, control and unanswered questions.
Gaetz Tells Crestview Chamber: Florida Must Be Not Just Free, But Affordable
State Sen. Don Gaetz told Crestview Chamber members Florida must be not only “the free state” but also affordable. He highlighted millions in local road funding, a robotics program turning students into high‑wage workers, and urged voters who favor cutting property taxes to also demand specific spending cuts from local governments.
Whiplash and unexpected upsets: Primary provides election excitement on Emerald Coast
Primary night in Okaloosa and Walton Counties saw low voter turnout, leading to a mix of predictable incumbent victories and a major shakeup in local government. While Okaloosa voters largely stuck with incumbents, Walton County voters delivered a significant upset in the Commission District 2 race, signaling potential change ahead.
Mark Franks Rises to Top Leadership Post at Florida League of Cities
Shalimar Mayor Mark Franks has been elected president of the Florida League of Cities for the 2026-2027 term. The lifelong Okaloosa County resident will lead the statewide organization’s advocacy and member engagement efforts while representing the interests of Florida’s municipalities and promoting local decision-making throughout his one-year term.
