Walton County surges Narcan stations to battle opioid overdoses
The Walton County Board of County Commissioners has unanimously supported “Revive Awareness Day,” a proclamation championed by Administrator Holly Holt to increase the availability of Naloxone (Narcan) and promote community-based opioid addiction resources. With 394 boxes of Naloxone deployed this year, the county continues to expand its emergency response efforts to combat the opioid crisis.
City Manager secures lease agreement for Twin Oaks Park
After years of discussion, the Niceville City Council unanimously approved a resolution to execute a 30-year lease agreement with the U.S. Department of Air Force for the Twin Oaks Park Mullet Festival Site at Tuesday’s meeting. City Manager David Deitch said he’d been negotiating with Eglin Air Force Base, which owns the land, for “almost […]
Niceville seniors demand return of senior-only hours at pickleball courts
Hundreds of Niceville seniors are petitioning to restore senior-only pickleball hours, citing safety and accessibility concerns after the courts were opened to the public, while city officials argue the change is necessary to address overcrowding and have proposed a compromise.
Maney explains his painful vote on controversial property tax proposal
State Rep. Patt Maney warns that a proposed property tax amendment could cause significant revenue losses for local governments, including fire districts and cities in Okaloosa County. He cautions that the measure lacks a clear funding replacement plan and could unfairly shift the tax burden onto renters and small businesses.
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.
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.
Inside Okaloosa County’s plans for the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Rigdon Center
Okaloosa County officials hope that with a little bit of time and effort now, the fairgrounds will be a place families can enjoy for decades to come.
Crestview Police Department set to roll out AI-written body camera reports in 2026
Crestview police are moving closer to rolling out new AI-written summaries of body camera footage after approving a contract in December.
Crestview Councilmember Ryan Bullard Resigns, City Seeks Replacement
Crestview City Councilmember Ryan Bullard has announced his resignation effective Dec. 31, 2025, citing professional, personal, and health-related considerations. City officials have opened the application process to fill the vacant Precinct 2 seat through the remainder of Bullard’s term, ending in November 2026.
Walton Commissioners Recognize Chair for Service and Leadership
As 2025 ends, Walton County Commissioners honor Chairwoman Donna Johns for her leadership and unanimously elect Brad Drake as the new Chair for 2026.
