Here’s the latest on the Norreigo Point deal will net an ex-con $70 million

A contentious town hall revealed deep public skepticism over Okaloosa County’s early park plans for a state-purchased waterfront property, as officials insisted the process is just beginning amid scrutiny over price, access, and influence.
Okaloosa Investigators Uncover Juvenile Trafficking Linked to Social Media

Two Okaloosa County residents were arrested after investigators linked them to the sex trafficking of juvenile girls at local bars and through social media.
250 Laptops Bring Opportunity to Emerald Coast

Derrick Brooks Charities, AT&T, and Compudopt gave 250 laptops to Emerald Coast kids and families to help bridge the digital divide.
Palmer Seeks Public Input on Holiday Isle Park

Commissioner Palmer invites Okaloosa residents to a Dec. 30 town hall to give input on a new 4-acre Holiday Isle waterfront park.
With Walls’ Execution, Northwest Florida Confronts Its Serial Killer Past

As Frank Walls is executed today, Northwest Florida reflects on how many serial killers have impacted the region over the last 50 years.
Florida Property Tax Proposals Draw Sharp Warnings from Okaloosa Officials

Should Florida eliminate property taxes? Okaloosa County mayors and managers told state lawmakers that doing so would destabilize city budgets, threaten police and fire services, and shift control away from local voters. A new statewide study supports their warning.
Hope in the Cold: How Local Leaders Protect the Unhoused

When winter temperatures drop below 40 degrees in Fort Walton Beach, a coordinated effort between One Hopeful Place and the Fort Walton Beach Police Department springs into action to protect people experiencing homelessness from dangerous conditions.
CCA Florida and Okaloosa County Team Up for Redfish Release

Destin-Fort Walton Beach and CCA Florida released 25,000 juvenile redfish into Cinco Bayou to boost declining populations, improve ecosystems, and support local anglers.
NAACP Pushes Back Against DeSantis Redistricting

The NAACP of Okaloosa County opposes Gov. DeSantis’ redistricting plan, citing threats to minority voting power and fair representation.
Okaloosa County approves concept plans for new youth sports complex in Baker

The Okaloosa County Commission approved a conceptual plan for a new multipurpose athletic complex in Baker, expanding recreational opportunities for youth sports.