DeSantis Awards Law Enforcement Bonuses; Program Has Now Reached 9,400 Recruits
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced Monday that the state has awarded more than 9,400 law enforcement officers $5,000 recruitment bonuses since launching the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program in 2022.
At an event in Panama City, DeSantis presented checks to recruits from Bay, Franklin, Gulf, and Walton counties, highlighting the state’s continued push to recruit, reward, and retain law enforcement officers.
Walton Sheriff Charges Army Officer With Sex Crimes
Sean Benjamin Cushman, an Army captain, was arrested on child sexual abuse and child pornography charges linked to incidents in Walton County, Florida.
Walton County passes $328M budget in narrow 3-2 vote
Walton County leaders cut the millage rate slightly, but a divided commission clashed over debt, reserves, and long-term planning.
City: Renovations on City Hall Slowed By Immigration Arrests
Valparaiso’s city headquarters project faces significant delays as immigration roundups in Northwest Florida disrupt construction crews, raising concerns about labor shortages and legal workers caught in the sweeps.
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?
Gallery: Seacoast Collegiate High School Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
Seacoast Collegiate High School, Florida’s oldest charter school, celebrated its new campus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, offering students a unique path to earn a high school diploma and associate’s degree in partnership with Northwest Florida State College.
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 County’s leaders hit pause on defunding the EDA — 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.
