On Tuesday, August 14, Walton County Commissioners unanimously voted to reinstate beach trash pickup that came to a halt after threats of being sued by homeowners who claim the beach is “private”. After Tuesday’s meeting there are only 12 homeowners still putting up a fight, according to WJHG, and Walton County officials have mapped out the route and will continue the service where permitted. County Attorney Sidney Noyes said, “We can get about 30 percent of the garbage on private property on the beach.” To read more on Tuesday’s decision, click here.
Bulletproof backpacks from a Niceville man
School officially started back this past Monday and with the excitement of a new school year also brings thoughts of school safety amid the series of school shootings last school year. James Renteria, a Niceville man who owns CYA Concealment, has been designing bulletproof backpacks for years and feels like they are needed mow more than ever. In an interview with WEAR TV, Renteria talked about the panels inside the backpacks and said, “…This is rated to stop all of your pistol clavier threats so 9 millimeters, 45s, up to shotguns.” To read more on the story, click here.
“Warning” sign at Baker School
A large white sign with black lettering that read, “WARNING: Exposure To Sexism, Raceism, White Privilage, & CHRISTIANITY” was found on the roof of Baker School around 6:30am on Tuesday and was removed prior to students arriving, according to the Northwest Florida Daily News. Officials are reviewing surveillance video. To read more on the story, click here.
Destin looks to increase city manager pay
With Carisse LeJeune’s resignation and interim city manager Lance Johnson in place, the City of Destin is actively seeking a full-time city manager. As talks continue, City Councilman Chatham Morgan proposed an increase in pay for the city manager to attract the type of talent the city needs, according to The Destin Log. The currently proposed salary for the city manager position is $131,729, with suggestions to raise it to $180,000. A final decision on salary will be made on August 20, 2018. To read more on salary topic, click here.
Longer beach access mat in Navarre
A 200-foot-long beach access mat at Navarre Beach is now making it easier for those needing assistance to reach the beach. According to South Santa Rosa News, the new AccessMat is located at the foot of the kayak launch at walkover 40E on Sea Oat Circle, just east of the Sea Oat Pavilion. To read more on the mat, click here.
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