Okaloosa Commission begins deliberation on 2026 legislative priorities

Okaloosa County is asking the state for nearly $200 million to widen State Road 85 while also pushing policy stances on gun rights, mental health diversion, and homestead exemptions.
Do you think these should be the county’s top priorities?
Okaloosa County backs Rotary proposal to expand beach rescue tube program

Okaloosa County is considering a low-cost but potentially lifesaving project to expand rescue tube stations along local beaches — do you think these flotation devices could make a difference?
Okaloosa County approves $824K PAWS contract, considers in-house animal control

Okaloosa County secures another year of animal control services with PAWS — but commissioners are already planning for a future where the county takes the reins.
Okaloosa County fish aggregating device project faces $41K tariff hurdle

Okaloosa County added a $41,760 tariff contingency to its offshore reef buoy contract, ensuring the fish aggregating device program stays on track despite trade policy uncertainty.
Okaloosa County keeps property tax rate flat for FY2026, advances $687M budget amid surging property values

Okaloosa County keeps property tax rate flat for FY2026, advances $687M budget amid surging property values Collin Bestor July 24, 2025 5:00 pm Okaloosa County In Brief: 🏡 No Property Tax Increase: The county’s ad valorem rate remains at 3.8308 mills for the eighth consecutive year. 📈 $687 Million Budget: Growth in property values helps […]
Okaloosa County unveils $687M budget, millage stays flat while property taxes go up

Despite an unchanged millage rate for Okaloosa County, residents should expect to pay more due to rising property taxes.
Okaloosa County Commissioners approve amendment to Hospital Assessment Program

Okaloosa County commissioners approved an amendment to the Local Provider Participation Fund, ensuring local hospitals can continue receiving Medicaid-related reimbursements at no cost to taxpayers.
Okaloosa County approves land use change for planned veterans retirement community

A major veterans housing project just cleared a key hurdle in Okaloosa County—here’s what’s next for Victory Village.
Okaloosa County approves tax exemption for Talking Parents Expansion

Okaloosa County approved a tax break for Talking Parents to expand its headquarters, bringing high-wage tech jobs to the area.
Okaloosa County boosts fishing industry with FAD network

Okaloosa County will install eight new shallow-water fish aggregating devices off Destin’s coast, expanding the county’s offshore fishing network with a $513,000 project funded through budget savings.