Politics

New terms start as Okaloosa officials take oaths of office across the county

Multiple governing bodies in Okaloosa County held swearing-in ceremonies Monday and Tuesday as newly elected and returning officials took their oaths of office in various locations.

Jared Williams

Add Get The Coast on Google

Multiple governing bodies across Okaloosa County welcomed new and returning officials during swearing-in ceremonies held Nov. 18 and 19.

The Destin City Council installed four members Monday. Commissioner Mel Ponder administered oaths to incumbents Dewey Destin and Teresa Hebert, along with former council member Rodney Braden.

Okaloosa County Judge Angela Mason, Destin’s first judge, swore in family member Sandy Trammell, who previously served on the council. Councilman-elect Kevin Schmidt was absent from the ceremony.

In Crestview, Commissioner Paul Mixon administered the oaths of office to Brandon Frost and former council member Shannon Hayes during an evening ceremony at City Hall Monday. Mixon also swore in incumbent Mayor JB Whitten.

The Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners held their swearing-in ceremony Tuesday at 8:15 a.m., prior to their regular 8:30 a.m. board meeting in the Board chamber in Shalimar. Former Commissioner Graham Fountain administered the oath to District 5 Commissioner Drew Palmer, while District 3 Commissioner Sherri Cox also took her oath of office.

Chairman Paul Mixon is returning for another term to serve as Commissioner for District 1.

The Okaloosa County School Board conducted a ceremony Tuesday where School Board Attorney Jeff McInnis swore in re-elected Superintendent of Schools Marcus Chambers and Board Member Tim Bryant, along with newly elected school board member Parker Destin, who previously served on the Destin City Council.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

School

Okaloosa School District explains how Safe Schools funding works amid county SRO debate

School

Okaloosa School District’s ‘Kindergarten Kickstart’ readies 326 students for first day

School

Okaloosa County School District opens applications for free and reduced-price meals for 2026-2027 school year

Public Safety

Destin City Council directs staff to evaluate East Pass warning signage

Hughes Curtis commented on Cynthia West moves campaign to District 5, will face Hinely for Okaloosa School Board seat

“My humble opinion is that we need the steady logical input from Brett Hinley for Okaloosa school board district 5. He’s a native of Niceville, went to school here and...”

Respond

Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: July 30, 2026

“2:34, 6 attempts”

Marcia commented on Iconic Sea Oats Motel in Destin acquired, to undergo renovations

“How wonderful it would be if you left it 'old school' - a slice of Old Florida Experience. I'm fearful that what Hgifford says might be the future.”

Helen Rigdon commented on Dr. Diane Kelley retires after more than 45 years in Okaloosa County education

“Dr. Diane, I have been on the sidelines of your career for many years . You are an inspiration for women in many careers. Offering you many well wishes for...”

LC Hough commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“They need to hang that SOB”

Anna Peele commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“I miss Demetriu’s friendly face and lively personality at the Magnolia Clinic. Every time I drive through the intersection where the accident happened I just say a prayer for Demetrius...”

Hgifford commented on Iconic Sea Oats Motel in Destin acquired, to undergo renovations

“I hope the motel will be renovated, but having lived here since 1955, I have seen this before: keep the locals happy by saying renovate. But, in reality, it will...”

wendy rudman commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“Demetrius's absence is still deeply felt by the patients of the clinic where he worked for many years.”

LYNDA WATKINS commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“This was such devastating news the day we lost Demetrius! He was so loved by so many in the community! Gone but never forgotten ! This guy should get life...”

Teri Reeves commented on Driver found guilty of DUI manslaughter in crash that killed Fort Walton Beach lab tech

“Dimitrius was a very loved person by so many citizens of Ft. Walton Beach. He will never be replaced. He is dearly missed by so many.”