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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

“Sounds like some great opportunities; day care businesses, corporate park sponsorship, multi year mixed use lease of park like on island. The Stalled progress on Around the Mound Project isnt...”
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“I cannot thank Marcus Chambers enough for! This gentleman is getting long needed accomplishments done!”
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“I am sorry to hear that the splash pad is on hold. Our locals with kids would enjoy that. Meanwhile, my son that races remote control cars in Crestview, sent...”
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“If golf carts can park in regular spots, then what's the point in golf cart only parking? That's one of the stupidest things I've heard. Those damn things should stay...”
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Vera Scavuzza commented on WordroW: August 14, 2026
“02:10 5 attempts”
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Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: August 14, 2026
“2:00, 5 attempts”
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“Why should golf carts get special spots? If they can park in regular car parking spots, just make them all the same.”
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“Next the county needs to ban them”
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“Thank you city council!!!! We don't need these!”
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