2026 will serve as an opportunity for many Floridians to elect new leaders or reaffirm their satisfaction with those already representing them in local, state and federal offices.
In Santa Rosa County, primary elections are set for Aug. 18, with early voting from Aug. 3 to Aug. 15. The general election will be held Nov. 3, with early voting from Oct. 19 to Oct. 31.
The intersection of West Spencer Field Road, South Spencer Field Road, and Giddens Lane will be closed beginning Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, for the construction of a roundabout. Weather permitting, work is expected to be completed by early August 2026.
16-year-old Gabriel Williams’ and 14-year-old Kimahri Blevins’ court files regarding the Danika Troy murder case have been made available to the public. This suggests the minors will be tried as adults.
Thomas L. Sims Middle School Dean of Students Joshua Parm resigned Nov. 17 while under investigation by Santa Rosa County District Schools. At the time of his resignation and the district’s statement confirming his departure, the reason for the investigation was not disclosed.
During a press conference earlier this month, Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson said it felt as though there had been more homicides than usual in 2025. His comments came on the heels of the discovery of Danika Troy, a 14-year-old girl who was found murdered in Pace.
A portion of Ashmore Lane in Pace will be down to one lane beginning Monday, Dec. 29, near the entrance of the Ashmore Place neighborhood to complete drainage improvements.
Milton City Council voted unanimously at their Dec. 9 meeting to receive a proposal for their marina revitalization project from Jones South Development. The city saw presentations from three different developers at a special called meeting on Nov. 6.
