Sen. Don Gaetz weighs in on $83M state purchase of Norriego Point
Florida plans to spend $83 million to purchase four acres of waterfront land at Norriego Point in Destin for public park and marina use, a move praised by Okaloosa County officials but questioned by Sen. Don Gaetz over the high price compared with the county’s $10.5 million appraisal.
Okaloosa County approves sidewalks, park upgrades and 2026 legislative priorities
Okaloosa County leaders advanced major community projects and set their 2026 legislative agenda during a packed Oct. 7 meeting covering sidewalks, parks, tourism, and safety initiatives.
Fort Walton Beach accepts $152k ICE grant under 287(g) program
Fort Walton Beach will take $152,500 in federal ICE funds to support its 287(g) immigration partnership — but not everyone agrees it’s a good idea. Officials say it won’t change local policing, while residents voiced strong opinions on both sides.
Florida Chamber President: Emerald Coast Must ‘Play the Long Game’ to Secure Economic Future
Florida Chamber President Mark Wilson told Emerald Coast business leaders that Florida’s growth depends on long-term planning, investment in early education, and local collaboration. Speaking alongside former Niceville City Councilman Sal Nodjomian, Wilson highlighted challenges such as housing affordability and retaining young workers while projecting that Florida could become the world’s 10th largest economy by 2030.
Niceville Officer Accused of Using Police Databases to Target Fellow Cop
Niceville Officer Accused of Using Police Databases to Target Fellow Cop Staff Reports October 11, 2025 7:57 pm Crime, Niceville, Public Safety In Brief: 👮 Who: Officer Coty Hall, Niceville Police Department💻 What: Arrested for alleged misuse of law enforcement databases and harassment📅 When: Arrested on October 10, 2025; investigation ran from January to October […]
Fort Walton Beach Woman Arrested on Prostitution Charge Following Undercover Investigation
Okaloosa County deputies arrested Suping Wu, 30, of New York, on a prostitution charge at a Fort Walton Beach spa following an undercover investigation prompted by tips from Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers.
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 […]
Rotary Club of Destin Expands Public Rescue Tube Program Across Okaloosa County Beaches
“These tubes are already making a difference at Destin beach accesses,” said Rotary project co-chairs Dion Moniz and Wayne Bernheisel. “Now, we are excited to expand this proven program across more parts of Okaloosa County, making our beaches even safer for residents and visitors.”
Destin Council seeks federal help to fix East Pass navigation hazards after boat collisions
Destin officials are pushing for federal and state support to repair and light East Pass navigation markers after recent collisions and near-misses.
