Winter Sandyland returns to Okaloosa Island benefiting local children in need
Winter Sandyland returns to Okaloosa Island befitting local children in need Staff Reports December 1, 2025 2:03 pm Uncategorized In Brief: 🔧 HVAC technician shortages are impacting service availability across Northwest Florida, especially during peak summer months. 💼 Companies like Mills Heating and Air are offering competitive wages and training pathways but still struggle to […]
In Photos: Veterans Day in Okaloosa County
Photo Gallery: Veterans Day celebrations in Okaloosa County
Destin renews PAWS contract; Mary Esther hesitates amid stability concerns
Destin renewed its annual animal control contract with PAWS for $92,761, while Mary Esther delayed its decision amid doubts about the nonprofit’s financial stability and contract terms.
Mary Esther eyes public safety contracts amid budget deficit, capital projects
With a deficit budget on the table and millions in capital projects ahead, Mary Esther’s leaders are asking a bold question: Are taxpayers getting what they pay for in public safety?
Mary Esther still without animal control after PAWS cancels contract, city seeks alternatives
Mary Esther is still without animal control services after PAWS canceled its contract, leaving city leaders scrambling for solutions and demanding fairness in future agreements.
Mary Esther officials outline fixes after citywide water outage exposes infrastructure flaws
A crash, a buried valve, and a city left without water—Mary Esther’s leaders explain how it happened, what it’ll cost, and what’s next.
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 6:21 pm Mary Esther In Brief: 🐾 PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. 📈 New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. 🏛️ Officials weigh […]
Mary Esther unveils park master plan
Mary Esther unveils park master plan Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 12:29 pm Mary Esther In Brief: 🐾 Top community priorities include dog parks, pickleball courts, and a central space for events and farmers markets. 🌳 Five major parks will be redesigned for accessibility, multi-use features, and public gathering spaces. 💰 $28 million phased plan […]
Niceville and PAWS End Contract for Animal Control. Here’s What Happens Next:
What happens when a city decides to cut ties with its longtime animal control provider? Niceville is finding out—and it’s complicated.
