Hundreds gather in Fort Walton Beach to honor Charlie Kirk

Hundreds gathered in Fort Walton Beach for a vigil honoring Charlie Kirk, joining nationwide memorials following his killing in Utah.
Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women Opens $500 Grant Applications.

The Okaloosa County Commission on the Status of Women is now accepting applications for a $500 grant to support organizations that benefit women, with a deadline of October 15th. Past recipients include Crestview Area Shelter, Beyond Expectations, and Opportunity Place.
Okaloosa County School District Reminds Families to Apply for Free & Reduced-Price Meals

Okaloosa County families must reapply for free or reduced-price school meals for 2025β2026, with a September 22 deadline for expiring benefits.
Okaloosa Commission approves $4M contract for VPS fuel farm expansion

Okaloosa County approved a $4 million expansion of DestinβFort Walton Beach Airportβs fuel farm, doubling storage capacity to keep pace with surging airline traffic.
Okaloosa County promotes Scott Bitterman to be Public Works Director

Interm no longer. The Okaloosa County Commission approved Scott Bitterman to become the county’s permanent public works director.
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 Beachβs 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 β a new 2.5-mile path in Niceville is finally moving forward with a $1.7M contract.
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 countyβs top priorities?
Patt Maney Returns to Okaloosa County, Highlights Legislative Wins and New Committee Roles

Rep. Patt Maney returned to Okaloosa County after an extended legislative session in Tallahassee, where he highlighted more than $23 million in local funding secured, new state laws he helped pass, and his 2026 committee assignments, including chairing the Justice Budget Subcommittee.
House-passed defense bill sends $300M for Eglin, Hurlburt projects and includes Patronis Amendment

The U.S. House passed its $892.6 billion defense policy bill, authorizing major construction projects at Eglin and Hurlburt, while Rep. Jimmy Patronis claimed a win with his amendment on military vehicles.