Okaloosa County approves Niceville Animal Clinic deal as PAWS contract nears end
Okaloosa County commissioners approved a new agreement with Niceville Animal Clinic for animal sheltering and veterinary services as the county prepares to take over animal control responsibilities south of Eglin. The deal comes as the county’s longtime PAWS contract approaches its September 22 expiration date.
Okaloosa County may help fund animal control using surtax funds
The Okaloosa County Surtax Committee voted to advance a proposal that would use $600,000 in tourism surtax funds to help pay for animal control services. County officials say the funding would support a scaled-back “Animal Control Light” program after PAWS ends its contract with the county this fall.
Fort Walton Beach Council delays $7M rec complex, approves new PAWS contract, advances charter changes
Fort Walton Beach officials approved a new PAWS contract, postponed a recreation complex expansion, and advanced two charter amendments on election timing and mayoral pay.
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 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 eyes $824K contract with PAWS for animal control services
Okaloosa County could approve a higher-priced, one-year animal control contract with PAWS to maintain services for unincorporated areas starting September 1.
Mary Esther still without animal control after PAWS cancels contract, city seeks alternatives
Mary Esther is still without animal control services after PAWS canceled its contract, leaving city leaders scrambling for solutions and demanding fairness in future agreements.
PAWS Faces $750K Shortfall as Cities Cancel Contracts: “This Is Not Sustainable”
PAWS, Okaloosa County’s primary animal welfare provider, is facing a $750,000 deficit amid contract disputes with cities like Destin and Niceville, forcing tough decisions as animal intake costs soar.
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract
Mary Esther officials weigh options after sudden cancellation of animal control contract Collin Bestor June 23, 2025 6:21 pm Mary Esther In Brief: 🐾 PAWS abruptly ends contract with Mary Esther, leaving the city without animal control services. 📈 New contract proposed higher rates, prompting council concerns over fairness and financial burden. 🏛️ Officials weigh […]
Here’s What Happened Between Niceville and PAWS at Tuesday’s Council Meeting
After a last-minute email from PAWS cut all ties, Niceville must find a new animal control solution—what happens next?
