Okaloosa County Commission

‘I don’t want to get a call that my son is gone’: Family fears Okaloosa inmate’s health is spiraling

The family of 33-year-old Robert Riddle says he’s growing weaker every month inside the Okaloosa County Jail, where he has lived with severe sickle cell disease since 2024. Advocates argue that essential treatments have been withheld, while county officials maintain he is receiving appropriate care.

Okaloosa County opposes Gulf drilling, citing national security and tourism risks

Okaloosa County Commissioners just took a firm stand against any effort to resume drilling in the eastern Gulf, saying it would threaten Eglin’s mission and the region’s multibillion-dollar tourism economy.

‘Minutes Matter’: Hurlburt Commander says traffic and housing now threaten U.S. Special Operations

Col. Mark Hamilton didn’t mince words. In a briefing to Okaloosa County Commissioners, the new 1st Special Operations Wing commander said traffic, housing costs, childcare shortages, and mental-health access are now affecting the wing’s ability to launch global missions on short notice.

Okaloosa County rejects open carry for employees, keeps concealed-only firearm policy

Okaloosa County employees will not be allowed to open carry their firearms while on duty.

Despite Florida’s recent legalization of open carry, the County Commission voted unanimously to keep its existing concealed-carry-only policy, citing safety, training and public-interaction concerns.

In Photos: Veterans Day in Okaloosa County

Photo Gallery: Veterans Day celebrations in Okaloosa County

Okaloosa County: Highway 98 connector, Santa Rosa Boulevard improvements, new ambulances

Big moves in Okaloosa County this week: commissioners voted to partner with Santa Rosa County on a regional road study that could create a new east-west corridor off Highway 98 — plus approved a $1 million grant to upgrade Santa Rosa Boulevard on Okaloosa Island.

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.