Local Firefighters Prep for 9/11 Memorial Fundraiser

Residents and first responders will gather in Panama City Beach on Sept. 6 for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb, honoring the fallen of Sept. 11 while raising funds for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
Walton County Commission rejects defunding Economic Development Alliance

After fiery debate and sharp words over job creation and tax dollars, Walton Countyโs leaders hit pause on defunding the EDA โ for now.
Walton County Landowner Recognized for Wildlife Conservation by FWC

Michael Jenkins of Walton County received recognition from FWC for transforming his private land into a wildlife conservation site supporting native species and ecosystems.
‘People Are Screaming:’ New Florida Law Sows Chaos For Local Governments Land Development

DeFuniak Springs forges ahead with a major rewrite of its Land Development Code, navigating new state legislation that could delay its stricter regulations for years.
Destin bonfire ordinance dies on floor without a second

Destin bonfire ordinance dies on floor without a second Collin Bestor July 9, 2025 12:30 am Destin In Brief: ๐ฅ Destin residents overwhelmingly opposed allowing beach bonfires during a heated public hearing. ๐ซ Council members rejected a proposal to draft an ordinance for fires on private property after strong public backlash. ๐ Residents cited code […]
Walton Commissioner Drake to PGA: No Contract, No Deal

Walton County leaders are holding the line on a proposed PGA Tour event until they see a formal contract with clear terms and contingencies.
DeSantis Signs $115B Florida Budget; $87 Million Headed to Okaloosa and Walton Counties

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Floridaโs $115 billion state budget, securing more than $87 million for Okaloosa and Walton County projects, while issuing only a few local vetoes and launching a $2 billion statewide tax relief plan.
Packed with Love, Ready to Learn

Packed with Love, Ready to Learn Staff Reports June 30, 2025 2:50 pm Okaloosa County, Schools and Education, Walton County The Emerald Coast Childrenโs Advocacy Centers (ECCAC) have launched their annual Back-to-School Supplies Drive, aiming to give students in Okaloosa and Walton Counties the tools they need to start the school year strong. From July […]
DeSantis Signs Florida Budget, Could Veto $80 Million in Okaloosa and Walton Projects

Floridaโs new state budget includes $2 billion in tax cuts but places more than $80 million in local Panhandle projects in jeopardy amid a wave of vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Tropical system could develop in Gulf ahead of July 4, Okaloosa officials monitoring

Public safety officials in Okaloosa County are urging residents to stay weather-aware as a tropical disturbance could form offshore during the July 4 holiday.