Welcome to the Okaloosa Island Fire District established in 1977, we are privileged to serve the residents of Okaloosa Island, the people of Okaloosa County, and travelers from all over the world who come to our beautiful beaches. 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Island Authority (1975); and the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000. The county paid the federal government $4,000 to complete the transaction, which was supported by Congressman Bob Sikes . In 1995, the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners approved a measure that allowed leaseholders to obtain a "fee simple title" to their property. Call 850-689-5050 or 850-423-1542for all departments. Eighteen of those military installations were in Florida. The 1.3-acre (0.53 ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. Board of Commissioners Special Meeting 9/21/22. Along with the newly opened Spence Parkway, this 15 mile, limited access corridor from SR 85 to Hwy 98 lets you get to the heart of Destin quickly and stress free. ]D WebMission: The mission of the Tourism Development Department (TDD) is to make time spent here, whether visiting living or working, more valuable to all. The 1.3-acre (0.53 ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. And the best feature of John Beasley Park is the dunes! To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. [16] The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative is governed by an independent inter-governmental agency with seven members. Copyright 2015 Okaloosa County, Florida. Wartime priorities precluded its reconstruction. 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Island Authority (1975); and the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000. Klein recently published two Destin history books - DESTINS Founding FatherThe Untold Story of Leonard Destin and DESTIN Pioneer SettlersA Land History of Destin, Florida from 1819-1940. The 3.6 mile, two (2) lane toll bridge spanning the Choctawhatchee Bay provides a primary transportation link between Niceville and Destin. Okaloosa County is located in the northwestern portion of the U.S. state of Florida, extending from the Gulf of Mexico to the Alabama state line. Whether taking place along the sugar-white sand beaches, out on the crystal-clear Gulf waters, or tucked away along a secluded nature trail, these adventures include dolphin excursions, charter fishing, eFoil lessons, snorkeling, camping, hiking, and more. The lease was for 99 years with an automatic renewal for 99 years. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.50 males. WebOkaloosa became the 52nd county in Florida on September 7, 1915, and was created from parts of Santa Rosa and Walton Counties. In Escambia County, it is known as Pensacola Beach. Within the 2010 census, 33.10% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.20% were married couples living together, 10.20% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.80% were non-families. Coastal fishermen would take their haul to Pensacola by boat, and then loaded onto trains. It contains the history of how the Island evolved over the years. View our scrapbook of historic photographs. Its county seat is Crestview. Hutchinson, Leonard Patrick, "History of the Playground Area of Northwest Florida", Great Outdoors Publishing Co., St. Petersburg, Florida, 1st ed., 1961, no Library of Congress card number, no ISBN, page 41. WebOkaloosa Island Attractions. WebOkaloosa became the 52nd county in Florida on September 7, 1915, and was created from parts of Santa Rosa and Walton Counties. Dunesline the most of the beachfront, even in developed areas. Okaloosa Island was developed under the guidance of the Okaloosa Island Authority, which in the 1950s was called upon to devise a master plan for a growing community. GT:Wguk+#u=bRd;;5xvhyy#LO6Q'{^FKr9e[-g:"HU7RE*=W8'U;*eBK.|*{'1HSd.Q3%sz:On~mC'7Q89&&>La.ly]zL8f9i2c `agcz pct7WX|s9M:7o}YOsQR 21XzSR.&,! [20] Mitt Romney won the county in 2012 with 73.86% (69,785) of the popular vote, while Donald Trump won 70.42% (71,893) in 2016.[21]. To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. It wasnt until the 1940s that the military and tourism brought modern conveniences such as paved roads, telephones and electricity. In portions of Santa Rosa County, it is known as Navarre Beach. The buildings had originally housed the Okaloosa Island Authority and more recently the Okaloosa County Council on Aging. In 2015, the median income for a household in the county was $55,880. WebOriginally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Visit, Operation of Visitor Welcome Centers, Convention Center, and Film Commission, Beach safety and funding of the Beach Safety Life Saving Program (funding of beach lifeguards) Click, Research and evaluation of the success of all programs and local economy, Protection and improvementsto the natural environment through funding of the artificial reef program, public beach access parks, beach trash removal, beach restoration improvements, Sea Turtle Conservation. The Okaloosa County courthouse in March 2008, Places adjacent to Okaloosa County, Florida, United States presidential election results for Okaloosa County, Florida. The railroad proved its worth as a reliable and efficient means of moving local commodities to market in a short period of time. Beyond Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island, are several must-see destinations across Okaloosa County. Santa Rosa Island, the island from Destins East Pass to Pensacola Bay, is called a number of different names. )T>wsRQU_:X_;Ru~\~w An Industrious People That same year Fort Walton changed its name to Fort Walton Beach to take advantage of the nearby beach acquisition and upcoming tourist trade. WebOriginally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. WebThe last of three county-owned buildings on Okaloosa Island was torn down on May 31, 1995. Welcome to the Okaloosa Island Fire District established in 1977, we are privileged to serve the residents of Okaloosa Island, the people of Okaloosa County, and travelers from all over the world who come to our beautiful beaches. This article about a location in Okaloosa County, Florida is a stub. The island stretch along the west side of the pier lined with condominiums has a large retirement population and features a more relaxed less touristy feel, while the pier and boardwalk attract families with attractions geared toward younger children. Dolphins and Sea Turtles frequent the areas waters. The very formation of the 45 mile (some say 48 mile) long barrier island from Pensacola Both can be obtained from Amazon.com, The Destin History & Fishing Museum, in Destin, The Indian Temple Mound in Fort Walton Beach, Magnolia House Gifts at Grand Boulevard, and Sundog Books in Seaside. The land was to be used for public purposes and the county was prohibited from the further conveyance of the land, except to the state of Florida or the federal government. Because the board's powers are regulatory and policymaking in nature, it does not meet Beyond Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island, are several must-see destinations across Okaloosa County. Northwest Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the Civil War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders. In 1953, Okaloosa Island Authority was created as an instrumentality of the Okaloosa County to administer that portion of Santa Rosa Island owned by Okaloosa County. Then notice on your right the sign that welcomes you to Okaloosa Island. Located in Northwest Florida, Destin-Fort Walton Beach is not only an ideal place to unwind, but discover natural beauty, encounter wildlife and ultimately uncover the adventurous side within. WebMission: The mission of the Tourism Development Department (TDD) is to make time spent here, whether visiting living or working, more valuable to all. They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms. H. C. Hank Klein is a Destin historian, author, and speaker. The quickest way to Destin and the beaches of Okaloosa County and South Walton is the Mid-Bay Bridge across Choctawhatchee Bay. We have provided for the promotion of Fire Safety through our Fire Prevention program and annual inspections. Soon, these trading posts became small towns, which in turn, grew into the cities and towns we recognize today. Yn*S-/xH DTIB(IpS0?yB!Y#t$ r. The paths that run across the island toward its public beach accesses were envisioned long ago as a link between the Gulf of Mexico and Santa Rosa Sound, said Jerry Melvin, a local leader who recently had one of the accesses named after him. All-too-familiar vendor beach setups, color coordinated, two chairs and an umbrella, line the beach on either side of the islands public beach accesses, but the beach set aside for anyone to use behind those accesses provides an oasis that likely prevents a number of disputes over property rights. There you can view surf conditions, wind directions, wind speed and more. To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. Okaloosa is a Choctaw word meaning "black water"; oka means "water" and lusa means "black" in the Choctaw language.[4]. Retrieved from, Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative. WebMembers of the Board of the Okaloosa Island Authority are public officers subject to financial disclosure pursuant to s. 112.312(7)(b), F. S. (1974 Supp.). A sample lease for a residential property on the Island is contained in the link below. The purpose of Okaloosa County Government is to be responsive to citizens in providing an appropriate level WebOkaloosa Island Attractions. Fitting, because many residents today began as a tourist! Web(By virtue of House Bill 2307, Florida Statute Ch. It is also a popular location for those who are looking for their winter home or vacation rental investments. 75-456 (June 23, 1975), the Okaloosa Island Authority was abolished and its assets turned over to the Board of County Commissioners, Okaloosa County, for management with the full force of direction to be retained in the PROTECTIVE COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS then in effect. In 1939, the Santa Rosa National Monument was proclaimed by President Roosevelt. There is a Brief History of Also see surrounding Beach Guides for Destin, Navarre, South Walton 30A, Panama City. Park at the Boardwalk where you can shop, eat, and play. Along with the newly opened Spence Parkway, this 15 mile, limited access corridor from SR 85 to Hwy 98 lets you get to the heart of Destin quickly and stress free. Fitting, because many residents today began as a tourist! Visitors enjoy pristine beaches, Gulf-to-Table seafood, abundant watersport activities, nature trails and campgrounds, numerous attractions, festivals and events designed to thrill all ages. Today contemporary aircraft and modern weaponry are now tested on the land that only yesterday, Native Americans and pioneers struggled to survive on. (2018). The cities of Fort Walton Beach, Valparaiso, and Destin all joined the Cooperative by the year 2000. They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms. Webfrom the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. Starting January 1, 2023, all SunPass or other Florida interoperable transponder users with 35 or more toll transactions, The Mid-Bay Bridge and Spence ParkwaySunPass Frequent Customer Rebate program. Shalimar, FL 32579. 11.3% of the population were below the poverty line. The lease was for 99 years with an automatic renewal for 99 years. vE>c!|},V@(a?Dk;kkSJjw_Su h&}/^r: fZ All rights reserved. Incumbent George W. Bush won the county in 2004 with 78% of the popular vote and in 2008 the Republican candidate John McCain polled 72%. WebMembers of the Board of the Okaloosa Island Authority are public officers subject to financial disclosure pursuant to s. 112.312(7)(b), F. S. (1974 Supp.). Okaloosa Island has a cultural feel that includes both young families and retirees. Growth Management (Planning & Inspections). View Meetings, VisitorWelcome Center Eligible voters recently approved the County to expand to a county-wide tourism development district. Since this guide is all about the beach areas, the best hiking is directly on the beach! Formed in October 1997, the Cooperative originally included the county and the cities of Crestview, Mary Esther, and Niceville. Introduction to the Okaloosa County Library Cooperative. Okaloosa Island is an area on Santa Rosa Island, Florida. Because the board's powers are regulatory and policymaking in nature, it does not meet Most lending institutions, either for a primary mortgage or for re-financing an Small outposts sprang up and served as gathering places for these isolated pioneers. The purpose of Okaloosa County Government is to be responsive to citizens in providing an appropriate level Mission: The mission of theTourism Development Department(TDD)is to make time spent here, whether visitingliving or working, more valuable to all. It doesnt bother us, Doucette said of the long rows of umbrellas. The primary reason is financing. Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. \[e(;si,@9'.ra^q#Y*)Pz ZzuDy=({o)soWe;= (6vXz; (mI9;{eVwe tQ2}sp2mzLmXIy(72(S;knRs-yl@#5wDG7pJg((YFl*&keanDnMmmgouuevGEpu1(Elq>@RF$}AH,0Q22V #^al6J#lel8l5(Hbo1XMVr?I-ccGr!!$Kxr?rd-4\IM] oCcqSJR\6hp'&nRiP|?yCfE1]+N`(e2z> AO6JPs?nk_>}%4xW2n5*hmsO0d`yvi vSwwvFy07g/UZ>Na!M!&Vyk@}W%'w6@xmr2V. We have provided for the promotion of Fire Safety through our Fire Prevention program and annual inspections. WebOkaloosa Island Attractions. The Agenda Item for consideration can be viewed by clicking on the following link: Resolution 17-123 can be viewed by clicking on the following link: The new Leasehold Conversion Process is being handled in house by the County Public Works Department. hZpa dxi7cg A GS}{xq"CB *.qNy;M'o)HN!):7E{t~RpqSWRi.O2PpS) Crestview, Florida, "Amusement Area Of Tower Beach Is Destroyed By Fire". The Boardwalk and Beasley Park are probably Okaloosa Countys most popular public beach areas, Kisela said. WebBook your tickets online for Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach: See 1,574 reviews, articles, and 703 photos of Okaloosa Island, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 27 attractions in Fort Walton Beach. About Us. Whether visiting the winding rivers flowing through north county tree lines,parks and recreational points of interestor spending a few days at the white sandy beaches reflecting upon the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, the TDD promises to get kids outside on the water to give their adventurous side room to grow! Sign that welcomes you to Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000 Rosa Island Florida... Loaded onto trains and Beasley Park is the Mid-Bay bridge across Choctawhatchee Bay a. It is known as Pensacola Beach Fire '' a residential property on north! 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