‘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.
Okaloosa County Commission approves conceptual plans for new park
Okaloosa County Commission approves conceptual plans for new park Staff Reports October 8, 2025 12:32 am Uncategorized In Brief: 🏞️ County unveils concept for 1.6-mile community park 👨👩👧👦 Residents helped design features and layout 🐾 Trails, playgrounds, and river overlooks planned Share This Story! CRESTVIEW — Okaloosa County officials unveiled conceptual plans Tuesday for a […]
Okaloosa County approves $687M budget with flat millage, rising tax bills
Flat millage rate, bigger tax bills, and a AAA bond rating — here’s what’s inside Okaloosa County’s $687 million budget.
Okaloosa Commission approves $4M contract for VPS fuel farm expansion
Okaloosa County approved a $4 million expansion of Destin–Fort Walton Beach Airport’s fuel farm, doubling storage capacity to keep pace with surging airline traffic.
Okaloosa Commission approves $250K for Gap Creek study to address flooding, water quality
Okaloosa County is putting $250,000 toward a long-awaited study of Fort Walton Beach’s Gap Creek watershed, matching state funding to address chronic flooding and water quality issues
Okaloosa Commission approves $1.7M contract for new multi-use path in Niceville
From Palm Drive to Rocky Bayou — a new 2.5-mile path in Niceville is finally moving forward with a $1.7M contract.
