Santa Rosa eyes tough budget choices amid growth, tax uncertainty
February 18, 2026
Santa Rosa County officials say they are bracing for tough budget decisions as they update a long‑range strategic plan that will guide infrastructure, growth and county services over the next decade. Rising costs, slowing revenue growth and uncertainty from state legislation could strain future funding, leaders warned.
Milton leaders voice concerns over Florida Starter Homes Act
February 18, 2026
Jacob Hullett, the City of Milton planning director, spoke to the City Council about a state Senate bill currently moving through committee.
Local brothers acquire Southern Raceway ahead of racing season
February 13, 2026
When Southern Raceway in East Milton went up for sale, some in the local racing community feared the property would be sold to a developer and that days at the dirt track would be a thing of the past.
That was also the fear of the Joiner brothers, Jonathan, Joseph and Joshua. As Joshua puts it, the brothers were practically raised at the track.
County installs new signs to keep large trucks off Bagdad bridges
February 11, 2026
Sit on a front porch facing Forsyth Street long enough and you’ll see the traffic.
Large trucks breezing by, people speeding and the twice-a-day congregation of cars coming and going from Bagdad Elementary School are fixtures on the main drag through this otherwise sleepy community.
Jay man charged with 15 counts animal cruelty
February 5, 2026
A Jay man has been charged with 10 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and five counts of animal cruelty after several animals were seized from his property.
Milton acquires permitting to build, operate new wastewater treatment plant
February 4, 2026
The City of Milton is moving closer to its goal of constructing a new wastewater treatment facility.
The city announced it has received official permits from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to construct and operate a new wastewater treatment plant and associated sprayfields.
Santa Rosa County Library System marks 20 years in 2026
February 2, 2026
The Santa Rosa County Library System will mark its 20th anniversary in 2026, with celebrations planned throughout the year.
FLHSMV: Florida drivers license exams to only be administered in English
January 30, 2026
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recently announced a change in policy regarding how driver license exams are proctored.
Starting Friday, Feb. 6, all driver license knowledge and skills examinations will be administered exclusively in English. The state also mentioned in a press release that exams must be taken without an interpreter.
City of Milton names new planning director
January 26, 2026
The City of Milton has appointed Jacob Hullett as the City’s new Planning Director. He will replace Tim Milstead.
A lifelong Santa Rosa County resident, Hullett was born and raised in the Milton area and is a graduate of Milton High School.
County in talks to acquire Navy airfield near East Milton industrial park
January 23, 2026
Santa Rosa County is in preliminary talks with the U.S. Navy to acquire a 694-acre airfield adjacent to the Northwest Florida Industrial Park at I-10.
The airfield, known as Santa Rosa Outlying Field, is still in use by the Navy. If you’ve driven on Highway 87 South near Interstate 10 exit 31, then you’ve likely seen orange and white helicopters flying.



















