SPONSORED BY
Good morning!
Here’s what we have today…
Okaloosa County to acquire the former Red Lobster building in Fort Walton Beach, while commissioners approve a $16.8 million Triumph application for an aerospace manufacturing project promising 300+ new jobs. Deputies report over 450 underage drinking citations during spring break, and the community mourns following a fatal crash near Hurlburt Field. Meanwhile, two local figures are recognized – Charles “Bull” Rigdon at the fairgrounds and Sheila Dunning with the naming of a new Agriculture Extension Office – and Niceville High’s principal takes on a statewide leadership role.
- ELECTION NIGHT: Republican Jimmy Patronis defeated democrat Gay Valimont on Tuesday in the special election for Florida’s 1st Congressional District seat. Nathan Boyles secured the win in the Florida House District 3 primary. He will now face Democratic candidate Dondre Wise in the June 10 general election.
BUSINESS
Okaloosa approves $16.8M Triumph application for aerospace manufacturing project, creating 300+ jobs
The Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution Tuesday to submit a $16.8 million application to Triumph Gulf Coast, Inc. for Project Opal, which officials describe as the largest single economic development investment in Northwest Florida’s history.
- The project involves a confidential aerospace company planning to construct a 1 million square foot manufacturing complex for critical aircraft systems serving both commercial and defense markets. The company has selected a 135-acre parcel within the Shoal River Ranch Gigasite, contingent on finalizing infrastructure support.
“We knew that it was going to take everything we have in terms of creativity to land a very significant opportunity,” said Nathan Sparks, executive director of One Okaloosa Economic Development Council. “All in, the total investment is $1,040,819,000.00, making this the single largest economic development project in terms of investment in Northwest Florida’s history.”
The project would create 336 jobs with an average annual wage of $69,434, which is 122% of the county’s current average wage of $56,849.
The development is planned in three phases, with construction potentially beginning as early as this summer. The first phase includes a 250,000-square-foot facility to be completed by December 2026. The second phase will add another 250,000 square feet by the end of 2028, bringing the total to 500,000 square feet with an investment exceeding $200 million.
- The final phase, planned for 2035-2036, would add an additional 500,000 square feet to reach the full 1 million square foot complex.
“This economic development on the north end is going to help alleviate some of the pressure on our roads and bridges,” said Commissioner Drew Palmer. “I’m so excited about this to have a billion dollar investment. I know this isn’t the first domino to fall, but I think it’s one of the biggest.”
Commission Chairman Paul Mixon expressed enthusiasm about the project’s progress and recalled earlier efforts to showcase the property’s potential.
- “I remember a few years ago when we loaded Secretary Kelly in my truck and we went legitimate four wheeling through the ranch to go cast the vision,” Mixon said. “It’s great to see things like this, to know that he retained that and has utilized it to help our favor in the future.”
If approved, the $16.8 million from Triumph Gulf Coast would fund public infrastructure including site design, road extensions, water and sewer lines, stormwater systems, security fencing, and parking areas. The company is committing $140 million in matching funds.
If the Triumph board moves forward with the application at their April 23 meeting, the company could break ground as early as summer 2025, with support from the governor’s office.
SPONSORED
Dive into incredible savings! It’s crystal-clear!
Eglin Federal Credit Union has incredible auto loan rates. Whether you’re cruising to your next adventure or just need a reliable ride, we’ve got you covered with auto loan rates as low as 5.49% APR.
- Shop for your New or Used vehicle at any participating dealer and get on-site financing with Eglin FCU or go online and apply at eglinfcu.org/auto.
Eglin Federal Credit Union. Where Members Matter Most.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Okaloosa deputies issue 454 underage drinking citations so far during spring break
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has issued approximately 454 citations for underage possession of alcohol during Spring Break 2025, with several recent incidents highlighting the agency’s enforcement efforts.
Deputies responded to multiple complaints of loud music and underage drinking at a residence on Shirah Street in Destin on Monday, March 31, where they found several underage individuals with alcohol, according to information released by the sheriff’s office.
- During that investigation, a 43-year-old Louisiana woman reportedly attempted to interfere by grabbing one of the detained individuals and falsely claiming to be their mother. Despite multiple commands to step back, she allegedly refused to comply.
The woman was placed under arrest for obstruction of justice and resisted by “bracing and pulling away” before being subdued and transported to the Okaloosa County Jail, the sheriff’s office reported.
In a separate incident on Monday, an underage LSU student was detained around 2 p.m. on Sunfish Street in Destin after deputies spotted him with what they described as an alcoholic beverage. He was issued a Notice to Appear in court and released.
- Just two hours later, the same 19-year-old student was seen near Luke Avenue in possession of alcohol again, according to the OCSO. This time, instead of receiving a citation, he was physically arrested and taken to booking for a mug shot and fingerprints.
“Learn your lesson the first time!” the sheriff’s office warned in their public statement about the incidents.
The sheriff’s office is urging visitors to “make good choices” as spring break activities continue in the coastal Florida community.
TRAFFIC
Fatal crash on Highway 98 claims life of Gulf Breeze man near Hurlburt Field
A 27-year-old Gulf Breeze man died Tuesday morning following a single-vehicle crash on US-98 east of Cody Avenue near Hurlburt Field, according to Florida Highway Patrol.
- The fatal accident occurred at approximately 6:53 a.m. when the driver of a Ford F150 pickup truck appeared to experience a medical emergency while traveling westbound on US-98.
According to the FHP report, the vehicle crossed the median and eastbound lanes before striking a tree south of the roadway. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
Officials confirmed that next of kin has been notified.
GIVING BACK
Okaloosa commissioners honor Charles “Bull” Rigdon at Destin-Fort Walton Beach fairgrounds
The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners approved a resolution Tuesday to designate the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Fairgrounds as the “Rigdon Center” in honor of Charles Hutton “Bull” Rigdon, Jr., who passed away in December 2014.
- The resolution, which passed on the consent agenda, recognizes Rigdon’s extensive contributions to the county, state and nation throughout his lifetime of public service.
Rigdon served in World War II and the Korean War before beginning a 43-year civil engineering career at Eglin Air Force Base. His civic involvement included serving on the Fort Walton Beach City Council from 1964 to 1981, where he held the position of Mayor Pro-Tem multiple times.
After retiring from Eglin, Rigdon took over operations of the Okaloosa County Fair. He also served three decades on the Okaloosa County Gas Board and was the first Chairman of the West Florida Regional Planning Council, now known as the Emerald Coast Regional Council.
The resolution notes that Rigdon “played an integral role helping to attract businesses and promote economic development in Northwest Florida” and served as CEO of the Northwest Florida Fair Association until his passing.
SPONSORED
Origin Bank opens new location in Fort Walton Beach
Origin Bank has expanded its presence with a new financial center in Fort Walton Beach.
- Operating from a temporary building at 212 Racetrack Road NW (the intersection of Denton Boulevard NW), the center offers comprehensive banking services including small business and personal banking, home loans, and financial support.
The location currently operates Monday through Friday, with the drive-thru open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and appointments available by calling (850) 904-8613. For more information, click here.
GIVING BACK
New Okaloosa Agriculture Extension Office to be named after Sheila Dunning
The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to name the new Agriculture Extension Office in Fort Walton Beach after Sheila Dunning, the county’s Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent who died unexpectedly in early March.
- The motion, brought forward by Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel, required a super-majority vote as Dunning’s passing occurred less than a year ago, in accordance with county policy.
“When Sheila died, a library was lost and volumes of wisdom and knowledge went with her,” Ketchel said during the meeting. “Sheila, you’re gone, but you’ll never be forgotten.”
Dunning served as the Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent in Okaloosa County for 23 years, starting her career in 2002 as the county’s Residential and Environmental Horticulture Agent. She received permanent status in 2008 and was promoted to EA IV in July 2024.
Construction on the new facility began in July 2024 following a groundbreaking ceremony and is expected to be complete in June. Funds for signage have already been allocated within the building construction budget, requiring no additional funding.
SCHOOL
Niceville High Principal Charlie Marello takes leadership role in statewide education organization
by Ashley Armacost
Charlie Marello, principal of Niceville High School, has been appointed Northwest Florida Regional Director for the Florida Association of Secondary School Principals (FASSP), Okaloosa County School District officials announced Monday.
- Marello, who has served as Niceville High’s principal for nine years, brings 15 years of experience as a secondary school principal to the leadership position with FASSP, a division of the Florida Association of School Administrators.
“After 15 years as a secondary school principal, I’ve been fortunate to gain lots of experience trying to effectively lead, manage, and survive all different types of situations,” Marello said. “If I can be of service to the FASSP by sharing or helping others through the knowledge I’ve gained, the lessons I’ve learned, or the mistakes I’ve made, I’m more than happy to do so.”
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised Marello’s appointment, calling him “an outstanding leader who has made a tremendous impact on students, teachers, and the community.”
- “His dedication to excellence in education and his ability to mentor and support fellow administrators make him the perfect choice for this role,” Chambers said. “We are incredibly proud to have him representing Northwest Florida at the state level.”
Before leading Niceville High School, Marello served as principal at Destin Middle School for three years and at Emerald Coast Middle School in Walton County for three years.
FASSP supports and empowers secondary school leaders across Florida. Its parent organization, FASA, was founded in 1977 with a mission to enhance education quality in Florida by providing administrators with tools and resources to foster student success.
In his new role, Marello will collaborate with school leaders across Northwest Florida, advocate for secondary education, and contribute to the professional development of fellow administrators.
COMING SOON
Okaloosa approves purchase of old Red Lobster building in Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa County commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to purchase waterfront property at 326 Miracle Strip Parkway for $3.5 million, with plans to potentially develop it as a museum site.
- The 1.84-acre property, formerly a Red Lobster restaurant, includes 150 feet of water frontage, an 8,469-square-foot building, and over 100 parking spaces. It sits adjacent to Liza Jackson Park, which is currently undergoing major renovations.
Deputy County Administrator Craig Coffey presented the opportunity as part of the county’s long-term efforts to expand waterfront offerings and address tourism demands.
“It’s in a great location, on a highly traveled street,” Coffey told commissioners. “It’s in relatively good shape, even though it’s an older building. It’s been well maintained and kept up well.”
Coffey outlined several potential uses for the property, including a museum, children’s activities through Little Adventures, a demonstration kitchen, a small charter boat hub, and an event rental space. The location also offers opportunities for partnerships with the adjacent Liza Jackson Park.
- The property was appraised at $3.75 million, slightly above the negotiated purchase price. Coffey noted that replacing the building alone would cost more than $6 million today.
Commissioner Trey Goodwin, who made the motion to approve the purchase, called it “a great opportunity to continue to serve the tourism function” while also providing “an amenity for locals to enjoy.”
The acquisition will be funded entirely through tourism development taxes, commonly known as “bed taxes,” which are paid by visitors staying in local accommodations.
- “It’s the money that everybody pays when they come to hotels only, and we’re able to utilize some of it for different wonderful things like this purchase,” Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel explained.
While officials have discussed using the site for a museum potentially related to the SS United States ship, Goodwin emphasized that the purchase makes sense regardless of whether that specific project moves forward.
Additional funds have been allocated for master planning and any immediate building repairs. Coffey indicated that specific reuse plans will require future board approval.
OK, that’s all I have for you this morning! I hope you have a great Wednesday. Help us shape the future of local news and make a meaningful impact on your community. Click here to learn how you can support us!
p.s. What did you think of this morning’s newsletter? Hit the reply button and let me know!
Published with ♥ by Get The Coast.
Did someone forward you this email? Subscribe here.
124 Eglin Parkway SE Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548