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ON THE AGENDA: Fort Walton Beach eyes new rules for boat rentals, downtown growth

Fort Walton Beach Council will tackle $3 million in infrastructure projects and police agreements amid changes to watercraft rental regulations and downtown zoning at Tuesday's meeting.

The Fort Walton Beach City Council will consider major infrastructure investments and changes to development codes during their regular meeting Tuesday at 6 p.m.

  • The agenda includes more than $3 million in proposed contracts for public works projects, including stormwater improvements and water tank management. Council members will also review new regulations for downtown development and watercraft rentals.

Here’s a look at Tuesday night’s agenda:

  • Student Recognition – Two high school students, Addison Cudney (Choctawhatchee) and William Jourdan (Fort Walton Beach), will receive Student Awards for Civic Excellence.
  • Public Safety Agreements – The council will consider two significant law enforcement items: a Memorandum of Agreement between the Police Department and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, and another agreement between the Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
  • Major Infrastructure Projects – Several substantial public works projects are up for approval, including an $825,125 stormwater pipe replacement on Martisa Road NW, a $2.17 million water tank management program, and a $200,000 utility line locating services contract.
  • Development Code Changes – The council will review three ordinances affecting the city’s Land Development Code: new regulations for livery vessel rentals, updated manufacturing use guidelines, and the creation of a new MX-3 zoning district for high-intensity downtown development.
  • Election Preparation – The council will appoint representatives to serve on the Canvassing Board for the upcoming municipal election.

The meeting will be held at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 107 Miracle Strip Parkway SW. The public is welcome to attend and make comments (limited to 5 minutes per person).

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Community Comments

“Hi Jessica, I'm from a small town in Minnesota also. ( Little Falls). What town are you from in Minnesota?”
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“Jim will do great at whatever he should decide to do in business and government services.”
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Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: April 22, 2026
“2:31”
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Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: April 21, 2026
“2:27”
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“Was there an appraisal done so we aren't paying too much? Probably not - another good ole boy deal. $2.625 million for park development: trails, restroom, two ponds, parking, pavillion-...”
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J Bridges commented on WordroW: April 21, 2026
“2:05”
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“It's nothing but a money grab by the city of FWB. Citizens, stand up against this tyranny.”
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Michael L. Cobb commented on WordroW: April 20, 2026
“43 seconds”
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