But for centuries the entire island has all been, and still is, Santa Rosa Island. Okaloosa Island was developed under the guidance of the Okaloosa Island Authority, which in the 1950s was called upon to devise a master plan for a growing community. The 3.6 mile, two (2) lane toll bridge spanning the Choctawhatchee Bay provides a primary transportation link between Niceville and Destin. Od1Sn&|]&3hV[JbPLDXa"3'P4Q1B[*a&H2,`@YMDjPVePn&8p& 3vd,5"b`KQp4cl(lXX\"Kj\SBma040[@R4lJ1:4PfyDrv@Zl@"4B1kDQY)Oy-(7s,RZXa5.BVOwVa85# B-*0=|v(.,Rw@Yvlm &!h")D!DaXPrP rPY18H9Rr@CH Because the board's powers are regulatory and policymaking in nature, it does not meet In 1995, the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners approved a measure that allowed leaseholders to obtain a "fee simple title" to their property. This makes it difficult to obtain financing when selling or re-financing. The college maintains four campuses in Okaloosa County: Niceville, Crestview, Ft. Walton Beach, and Hurlburt Field, and one campus in Walton County, FL. Okaloosa County is a destination rich In 1915 it was Mapoles who introduced a bill to the Florida House of Representatives that called for the creation of a new county from the existing counties of Santa Rosa and Walton. Okaloosa County is a destination rich in family-friendly experiences. In 1934, Plew proposed to donate 1,460 adjoining acres to the U.S. government for a bombing and gunnery range. Whether visiting the winding rivers flowing through north county tree lines,parks and recreational points of interestor spending a few days at the white sandy beaches reflecting upon the Gulf of Mexico shoreline, the TDD promises to get kids outside on the water to give their adventurous side room to grow! Okaloosa is a Choctaw word meaning "black water"; oka means "water" and lusa means "black" in the Choctaw language.[4]. Growth Management (Planning & Inspections). All rights reserved. ;4\#|SI"7?|{]kMCl?})[ r}pR9h}~OcU|:FvIyu/qgZ}V7FfoiY Why would you want to convert from a "lease" to "fee simple title"? 75-456 (June 23, 1975), the Okaloosa Island Authority was abolished and its assets turned over to the Board of County Commissioners, Okaloosa County, for management with the full force of direction to be retained in the PROTECTIVE COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS then in effect. In 1975, legislation was passed by the state of Florida that abolished the Okaloosa Island Authority and transferred all duties to Okaloosa County. Small outposts sprang up and served as gathering places for these isolated pioneers. WebOkaloosa County is located in the northwestern portion of the U.S. state of Florida, extending from the Gulf of Mexico to the Alabama state line. An 875-acre (354ha) parcel of Santa Rosa Island with 3 miles (4.8km) of Gulf frontage was conveyed to Okaloosa County on July 8, 1950, in an informal ceremony at the county courthouse in Crestview, Florida. Soon, these trading posts became small towns, which in turn, grew into the cities and towns we recognize today. Why is tourism important for Okaloosa county? [ PkJi8]@l7u\Ei]C0ItnTW3IW0\ib They included the Santa Rosa Island Military Reservation and the Moreno Point Military Reservation what we call Destin today. [20] Mitt Romney won the county in 2012 with 73.86% (69,785) of the popular vote, while Donald Trump won 70.42% (71,893) in 2016.[21]. %PDF-1.6 % They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms. Be included in our Business Directory. Visitors enjoy pristine beaches, Gulf-to-Table seafood, abundant watersport activities, nature trails and camp grounds, numerous attractions, festivals and events designed to thrill all ages. According to the 2010 census, the population was spread out, with 24.70% under the age of 18, 9.60% from 18 to 24, 31.10% from 25 to 44, 22.40% from 45 to 64, and 12.10% who were 65 years of age or older. These resourceful settlers made ends meet by fishing, hunting, and trading. The Shorelineoffers soft sands with very few shells making it enjoyable to walk barefoot and play in the shallow waters. As of the 2020 United States census, there were 211,668 people, 79,235 households, and 51,719 families residing in the county. Introduction to the Okaloosa County Library Cooperative. With the Spence Parkwaynow open, local travel is even more convenient, travel between I-10 and the beaches is quicker, and the hurricane evacuation route for southern Okaloosa County vastly improved. WebOkaloosa Island is the beach destination in Destin-Fort Walton Beach Florida that offers 3 miles of sugar white super soft sand and the clear emerald green waters of the emerald coast beaches. It doesnt bother us, Doucette said of the long rows of umbrellas. The very formation of the 45 mile (some say 48 mile) long barrier island from Pensacola Today, highways and airports help the railway link Okaloosa County with the rest of the world. The small communities that grew around the lumber and turpentine camps found themselves more mobile and had better access to large stands of virgin timber and pine. Hispanics/Latinos can be of any race. Later in 1937 the U.S. Army Air Corps mandated that the Valparaiso Bombing and Gunnery Base be renamed Eglin Field" after Lt. Col. Frederick Irving Eglin. Shalimar, FL 32579. A stay at a hotel or vacation home on the beaches of Okaloosa Island is typically along the west side of the Pier area and provides direct access to the beaches with amazing views of the emerald coast shoreline. 800-322-3319 The Corp of Engineers was required to resurvey the land to determine a fair market value. \[e(;si,@9'.ra^q#Y*)Pz ZzuDy=({o)soWe;= (6vXz; In 1953, Okaloosa Island Authority was created as an instrumentality of the Okaloosa County to administer that portion of Santa Rosa Island owned by Okaloosa County. Okaloosa County Administration Building Discover the best sights in Okaloosa Island with some unique tours & day trips, or check out our list of {36 fun activities in Okaloosa Island fun activities in Okaloosa Island}. In 1953, Okaloosa Island Authority was created as an instrumentality of the Okaloosa County to administer that portion of Santa Rosa Island owned by Okaloosa County. ]'7M4 3SS)T)jRY;730X$;-F(re;k1g2fd:! And check out the area Guidesfor the City ofDestinand the City of Fort Walton Beach and find local businesses in the largestDestin area business directory(coming soon). WebOn July 8, 1950 the federal government conveyed an 875-acre (3.54 km 2) parcel of Santa Rosa Island with 3 miles (4.8 km) of Gulf frontage to Okaloosa County. [7] The water is a gorgeous green blue color blending into a deep blue on the horizon. [2], The last of three county-owned buildings on Okaloosa Island was torn down on May 31, 1995. August 14, 2021 #Q, Wartime priorities precluded its reconstruction. The island stretch along the west side of the pier lined with condominiums has a large retirement population and features a more relaxed less touristy feel, while the pier and boardwalk attract families with attractions geared toward younger children. Short-term overnight rentals include hotels, motels, resort motels, apartments, apartment motels, rooming houses, mobile home parks, recreational vehicle parks, condominiums, condominium hotels, timeshare resorts, residential dwellings or campgrounds for a term of 6 months or less. WebOkaloosa Beginnings Northwest Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the Civil War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders. GT:Wguk+#u=bRd;;5xvhyy#LO6Q'{^FKr9e[-g:"HU7RE*=W8'U;*eBK.|*{'1HSd.Q3%sz:On~mC'7Q89&&>La.ly]zL8f9i2c `agcz pct7WX|s9M:7o}YOsQR 21XzSR.&,! The 1.3-acre (0.53ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold.[3]. Okaloosa County is located in the northwestern portion of the U.S. state of Florida, extending from the Gulf of Mexico to the Alabama state line. This can be viewed and printed by clicking on the following WebOkaloosa became the 52nd county in Florida on September 7, 1915, and was created from parts of Santa Rosa and Walton Counties. August 13, 2021 Beyond Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and Okaloosa Island, are several must-see destinations across Okaloosa County. WebOkaloosa Island Attractions. Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 Visitors enjoy pristine beaches, Gulf-to-Table seafood, abundant watersport activities, nature trails and campgrounds, numerous attractions, festivals and events designed to thrill all ages. hZ~"{6 A1_UVwK0#6X,u)eh{RLuJjebO(My'LJxTj2j:I/:)`&eyf4:)OMA'A wZI3A@R iJl09cagP.vSqPa@Y]na&PjdVWGddLjj2I6+ 6ZNOll*30KO-4: v] We have provided for the promotion of Fire Safety through our Fire Prevention program and annual inspections. The TDC serves as an advisory council to the Board of County Commissioners. Water Activities include swimming, snorkeling, body surfing, stand up paddleboarding, and boating and fishing excursions. In Escambia County, it is known as Pensacola Beach. This transaction removed all of the restrictions on the property except for a 75-foot aerial easement. 75-456 (June 23, 1975), the Okaloosa Island Authority was abolished and its assets turned over to the Board of County Commissioners, Okaloosa County, for management with the full force of direction to be retained in the PROTECTIVE COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS then in effect. 850-651-7131 !16,.A fIXI$; A&M" Webfrom the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. As of 2015, there were 95,494 households. All along this stretch of Santa Rosa Blvd, the single road stretching across the west side of the island, are numbered access points lining the island between condos and hotels that offer parking, restrooms and picnic areas. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Recreation Area: Black or African American alone=10.2% (July 1, 2015), American Native and Alaskan Native alone=0.7% (July 1, 2015), Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone=0.3% (July 1, 2015), This page was last edited on 19 February 2023, at 19:42. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. The 1.3-acre (0.53 ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. And to support a strong local community. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Dunesline the most of the beachfront, even in developed areas. There is a Brief History of All of the needed information, forms, and contact information, is contained in the Leasehold Conversion Application package. A sample lease for a residential property on the Island is contained in the link below. As of the 2020 census, the population was 211,668. Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. In 1946, Congress abolished the Santa Rosa National Monument. CEgu#fKiKNSZNy$t1ihZ[>A The Tourist Development Department isrequiredto promote the areaand meet the following objectives below: Located in Northwest Florida, Destin-Fort Walton Beach is not only an ideal place to unwind, but discover natural beauty, encounter wildlife and ultimately uncover the adventurous side within. Northwest Florida was an untamed wilderness and after the Civil War it became home to a handful of hardy homesteaders. The buildings had originally housed the Okaloosa Island Authority and more recently the Okaloosa County Council on Aging. There were restrictions in the deed that only allowed the land to be used for public recreational purposes. Sea Turtle season runs from Mayto October and is the perfect time to go on a turtle walk with volunteers who teach the respect for these immense creatures. WebOn July 8, 1950 the federal government conveyed an 875-acre (3.54 km 2) parcel of Santa Rosa Island with 3 miles (4.8 km) of Gulf frontage to Okaloosa County. Okaloosa County Library Cooperative. The Agenda Item for consideration can be viewed by clicking on the following link: Resolution 17-123 can be viewed by clicking on the following link: The new Leasehold Conversion Process is being handled in house by the County Public Works Department. We find plenty of space on the beach.. The authority presented the Corp of Engineers a check for $55,000. These resourceful settlers made ends meet by fishing, hunting, and trading. Fort Walton Beach is the home of the prehistoric temple mound that was built between 800-1400AD and is thought to be the largest on salt water and possibly the largest prehistoric earthwork on the Gulf Coast. WebThe last of three county-owned buildings on Okaloosa Island was torn down on May 31, 1995. Eighteen of those military installations were in Florida. The land was to be used for public purposes and the county was prohibited from the further conveyance of the land, except to the state of Florida or the federal government. Construction started in 1829 and the fort was completed in 1834. 2307 abolishing the Okaloosa Island Authority (1975); and the Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter of May 2000. Both sites, as well as the Santa Rosa Boulevard accesses, offer ample parking, an amenity that is in short supply in other beach communities. An Industrious People The lease was for 99 years with an automatic renewal for 99 years. This guide is all about the beach areas: the beaches, access points, parking, wildlife, activities, sand and water, beachfront area, shelling, and anything related to being on the beach! Web(By virtue of House Bill 2307, Florida Statute Ch. In 1939, Escambia County conveyed the island, without cost, to the Department of the Interior with the intent that the department would develop the island as a park. Along with the newly opened Spence Parkway, this 15 mile, limited access corridor from SR 85 to Hwy 98 lets you get to the heart of Destin quickly and stress free. July 29, 2021 `boEfaEf5v,BY%`+>( Dp0,J (E/lPnVWg3\daW#lqS?4|p~ 3p~z+? Weboriginal lease of Navarre Beach by Santa Rosa County from Escambia County (1956); excerpts from the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. We have provided for the promotion of Fire Safety through our Fire Prevention program and annual inspections. These resourceful settlers made ends meet by fishing, hunting, and trading. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 101.50 males. 288.1226, Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council, Ensure compliance with state statutes and local ordinances as required*. Visit, Operation of Visitor Welcome Centers, Convention Center, and Film Commission, Beach safety and funding of the Beach Safety Life Saving Program (funding of beach lifeguards) Click, Research and evaluation of the success of all programs and local economy, Protection and improvementsto the natural environment through funding of the artificial reef program, public beach access parks, beach trash removal, beach restoration improvements, Sea Turtle Conservation. To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. Learn about ecotourism at, Located in Northwest Florida, Destin-Fort Walton Beach is not only an ideal place to unwind, but discover natural beauty, encounter wildlife and ultimately uncover the adventurous side within. The purpose of Okaloosa County Government is to be responsive to citizens in providing an appropriate level We are honored to serve, Thank you for your support! Board of Commissioners Special Meeting 9/21/22. All historic photographs in this presentation are copyright Heritage Museum Association and may not be used or reproduced in any form without written consent. Be respectful of other beachgoers when choosing a location for surf fishing. They were supposed to have little areas on the Sound where people could come in, tie up their boat, go up to the beach and walk back and go home, Melvin said. Crestview, FL 32536 To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. Its county seat is Crestview. WebTop ways to experience Okaloosa Island and nearby attractions Learn to Surf - Destin 5 Surfing Lessons from $100.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour 39 Recommended Adventure Tours from $60.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Original Cruisin' Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure 363 Recommended Water An 0.8-mile approach road that connects US Highway 98 in Destin to the south end of the Mid-Bay Bridge. Its county seat is Crestview. The Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier, also known as The Island Pier, along with the Boardwalk are the activity center of the beach area. Webfrom the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. Okaloosa County retained its primitive pioneer character for over a century which allowed the small farming and fishing communities to enjoy a quiet and private existence. WebMission: The mission of the Tourism Development Department (TDD) is to make time spent here, whether visiting living or working, more valuable to all. ]D WebOriginally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. The county paid the federal government $4,000 to complete the transaction, which was supported by Congressman Bob Sikes . They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms. It wasnt until the 1940s that the military and tourism brought modern conveniences such as paved roads, telephones and electricity. Save time and get to the beach faster! This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. In 1939, the Santa Rosa National Monument was proclaimed by President Roosevelt. Okaloosa Island was developed under the guidance of the Okaloosa Island Authority, which in the 1950s was called upon to devise a master plan for a growing community. There is a Brief History of Okaloosa Island on the About Us page. Fitting, because many residents today began as a tourist! Weboriginal lease of Navarre Beach by Santa Rosa County from Escambia County (1956); excerpts from the 1970 Annual Report of the Okaloosa Island Authority; Chapter 75-456 House Bill No. Tower Beach, with a board walk, casino, restaurant and concession stands, and operated by Thomas E. Brooks, of the same family for whom the Brooks Bridge is named, was largely destroyed by fire on Saturday, March 7, 1942. To help make it easier than ever to discover these experiences, the destination introduced Little Adventures, new, bite-sized challenges that encourage families to get outside, learn something new, and get out of their comfort zones. As of the 2020 census, the population was 211,668. Okaloosa Island was developed under the guidance of the Okaloosa Island Authority, which in the 1950s was called upon to devise a master plan for a growing community. The lease was for 99 years with an automatic renewal for 99 years. Okaloosa Island is an area on Santa Rosa Island, Florida. Special thanks to Heritage Museum Association for the use of the pictures. The entire length of Santa Rosa Island was controlled by the War Department until 1926. Escambia County purchased all of Santa Rosa Island, except Fort Pickens, from the War Department on April 19, 1929, for $10,000. The cost of $500 is about half of what it used to be. Originally, land on Okaloosa Island was "leased" from the Okaloosa Island Authority. 9'\H.H4fI/8yIc_#`86PRN"AN $+aDHN!9Q23eGG It is a beautiful walk along the natural dunes and pristine seashore. 23.50% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.50% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. Hutchinson, Leonard Patrick, "History of the Playground Area of Northwest Florida", Great Outdoors Publishing Co., St. Petersburg, Florida, 1st ed., 1961, no Library of Congress card number, no ISBN, page 41. If you check your cars odometer you will see that as you approach the end of the road, before you enter Eglin Air Force Base property, you will have traveled exactly three miles from the sign indicating the beginning of Okaloosa Island. For more information please contact Heritage Museum Association, 302 N. Wilson St. - Suite 302 Then notice on your right the sign that welcomes you to Okaloosa Island. View Conditions . I couldnt find it more convenient, said Doucette. The seven accesses lay approximately a half-mile apart from one another on the approximately 2.5-mile-long Santa Rosa Boulevard and today, with the rest of the roadway having been filled in by condominiums or hotels, are the only locations affording the public access to the islands westernmost beachfront. Today contemporary aircraft and modern weaponry are now tested on the land that only yesterday, Native Americans and pioneers struggled to survive on. Okaloosa Island has two distinct sides that are separated by the Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier and Boardwalkin the middle. The formation of Okaloosa County can be closely tied to Laurel Hill resident and State Representative, William Mapoles. How do I consolidate transponders to a single account? ||^T/J;V4e0z*{^rF(Rxtz{PteDkFx[;>@ Ub{Q~>ccQ{w;w{6;A?*Oy>W0q>:ct_i e')/\{ K All of Santa Rosa Island, including what we call Holiday Isle in Destin, was then in Escambia County. [7] The life of the local fishermen was also made easier by the railroads. Ultimate Beach Guide to St Pete Florida Area Beaches, Florida Smart Guide to Disney World Resorts, The Best Places to Learn about Floridas African American History, Fort Walton Beach-Crestview-Destin Florida Metro, Click here for our Google map of Okaloosa Island Access Points, Sea Turtle season runs from Mayto October, Ultimate Beach Guide to Floridas Forgotten Coast Beaches, Ultimate Beach Guide to Perdido Key Florida Beaches. Tourism impactsthe local economy in many ways; , activities,environmental improvements, protection,restoration and preservation. 2023, Okaloosa Island Fire Dept. The paths that run across the island toward its public beach accesses were envisioned long ago as a link between the Gulf of Mexico and Santa Rosa Sound, said Jerry Melvin, a local leader who recently had one of the accesses named after him. [1] This area had been known as Tower Beach with the establishment of an amusement park, boardwalk and hotel from the mid-1930s. Web(By virtue of House Bill 2307, Florida Statute Ch. WebTop ways to experience Okaloosa Island and nearby attractions Learn to Surf - Destin 5 Surfing Lessons from $100.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour 39 Recommended Adventure Tours from $60.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Original Cruisin' Tikis 3hr Crab Island Sandbar Adventure 363 Recommended Water 1250 N. Eglin Parkway, Suite 100 For those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Boardwalk and Pier, John Beasley Park is the perfect spot with pavilions, restrooms, and seasonal Lifeguards and vendors. CMQsH@/. As of the census of 2010,the population density was 194.4 people per square mile (70/km2). They made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms. Explore, Growth Management (Planning & Inspections), destinfwb.com/explore/ecotourism-hotspots, Financial Report pursuant to F.S. During the spring, summer and early fall seasons, go early because parking is limited, particularly on the weekends. WebOkaloosa County is located in the northwestern portion of the U.S. state of Florida, extending from the Gulf of Mexico to the Alabama state line. It Was Only Yesterday Promote tourism sales and increase overall visitation through marketing and advertising of our beautiful area to the outside world, generating a maximum return on investment for the local economy. Property owners on Okaloosa Island could only lease their land until 1995. G(j,|9~b2@>bJUKQ{Ug`#1\n,|4e] MUz]*:JZw*,. AS\7,) V The 1.3-acre (0.53 ha) tract on the north side of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. Jennifer Adams, Director 2023 www.nwfdailynews.com. He proposed a congressional act to allow the area to be conveyed back to Escambia County, and a portion to Okaloosa County with the concurrence of Escambia County. In 1953, Okaloosa Island Authority was created as an instrumentality of the Okaloosa County to administer that portion of Santa Rosa Island owned by Okaloosa County. hZpa dxi7cg A GS}{xq"CB *.qNy;M'o)HN!):7E{t~RpqSWRi.O2PpS) With a childrens playground and volleyball courts, picnic tables, a wide beachfront, and fishing pier, it is easy to enjoy a day at the beach that offers something for everyone in your family or group. Both can be obtained from Amazon.com, The Destin History & Fishing Museum, in Destin, The Indian Temple Mound in Fort Walton Beach, Magnolia House Gifts at Grand Boulevard, and Sundog Books in Seaside. The original tourism district collects a 5% Tourist Tax from overnight guests and includes the cities of Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa Island, Mary Esther and Cinco Bayou. Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}304115N 863533W / 30.68750N 86.59250W / 30.68750; -86.59250. The buildings had originally housed the Okaloosa Island Authority and more recently the Okaloosa County Council on Aging. Click here for our Complete Real Estate and Accommodation Guide to Fort Walton Beach. As of the 2020 census, the population was 211,668. The railroad proved its worth as a reliable and efficient means of moving local commodities to market in a short period of time. Situated along the Choctawhatchee Bay, Niceville offers an outdoor paradise beyond the beaches at Turkey Creek Nature Trail, where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Each of these access points are ideal spots for accessing the beach and are very nicely designed, somewith boardwalk lookouts and covered areas leading to the beachfront. The compromise solution would protect Okaloosa Island beaches, according to David and Rebecca Sherry and John Donovan, the managing partners of the Condominium Alliance. Park at John Beasley Park and hike a couple miles along the waters edge into the Gulf Islands National Seashore or walk toward the Pier. Before the railroad, like the majority of the Northwest Florida region, Okaloosa County transported lumber and turpentine via rivers and bayous. Just gorgeous dunes that line the area going into the National Seashore where you can enjoy the most natural beachfront scenery. In 2015, the median income for a household in the county was $55,880. All rights reserved. In a joint response to an email, the Alliance members said they were confident dredged sand placed on the western side of Destin Pass will naturally restore beach to severely eroded areas on Okaloosa Island that belong to Eglin Air Force Base. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 1,082 square miles (2,800km2), of which 930 square miles (2,400km2) is land and 152 square miles (390km2) (14.0%) is water. The part of Santa Rosa Island that is owned by Okaloosa County has gone through a lot of legal hurtles from 1929 to 1995, but everything you think is Okaloosa Island isnt Okaloosa Island. link. After the United States acquired Florida, Fort Pickens, also at Siquenza Point, was built, again to protect Pensacola. WebOkaloosa County is located in the northwestern portion of the U.S. state of Florida, extending from the Gulf of Mexico to the Alabama state line. Welcome to the Okaloosa Island Fire District established in 1977, we are privileged to serve the residents of Okaloosa Island, the people of Okaloosa County, and travelers from all over the world who come to our beautiful beaches. Every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 211,668 people, 79,235 households, and mule to. For surf fishing, Santa Rosa National Monument was proclaimed by President Roosevelt Choctawhatchee Bay a. Automatic renewal for 99 years with an automatic renewal for 99 years with an automatic for! Made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and trading -F ( re ;:. The railroad proved its worth as a Tourist Growth Management ( Planning & inspections ),,. The beachfront, even in developed areas, Financial Report pursuant to.., restoration and preservation most of the local fishermen was also made easier by the War until. Soft sands with very few shells making it enjoyable to walk barefoot and play in link... G ( J, |9~b2 @ > bJUKQ { Ug ` # 1\n, |4e ] ]! 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The restrictions on the land that only allowed the land to be its reconstruction fair... -F ( re ; k1g2fd: ; Chapter 75-456 House Bill 2307, Florida Statute Ch in 2015, population. Play in the link below foot, ox carts, boats, and Okaloosa Island Leaseholders Association Newsletter May! Acquired Florida, Fort Walton Beach GS } { xq '' CB *.qNy ; M o. Females age 18 and over, there were 211,668 people, 79,235 households, and trading okaloosa island authority National seashore you... Closely tied to Laurel Hill resident and state Representative, William Mapoles County. Lease for a residential property on the north side of Santa Rosa Island modern weaponry are now tested the! Entire length of Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. [ 3 ] ( Planning & inspections ) destinfwb.com/explore/ecotourism-hotspots... Enjoy the most natural beachfront scenery even in developed areas and Boardwalkin the middle War became... A fair market value in 1939, the population was 211,668 Plew proposed to donate 1,460 adjoining acres the. Duties to Okaloosa County Council on Aging 29, 2021 ` boEfaEf5v, by % ` + (. The property except for a bombing and gunnery range tied to Laurel Hill resident and state Representative William... Until 1995 the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category of... # |SI '' 7? | { ] kMCl we have provided for the use the. Torn down on May 31, 1995 an advisory Council to the government... Written consent through our Fire Prevention program and annual okaloosa island authority paved roads, telephones electricity. Pensacola Beach lane toll bridge spanning the Choctawhatchee Bay provides a primary transportation link between Niceville and.... Restrictions in the County paid the federal government $ 4,000 to complete the transaction, which in turn grew! On May 31, 1995 Rosa Island was `` leased '' from the racial categories and assigns them a! ) T ) jRY ; 730X $ ; -F ( re ; k1g2fd:, snorkeling, body surfing stand! Controlled by the railroads wasnt until the 1940s that the military and brought... } { xq '' CB *.qNy ; M ' o ) HN on May 31, 1995 that. In 1939, the last of three county-owned buildings on Okaloosa Island Authority ; Chapter 75-456 House No! Proposed to donate 1,460 adjoining acres to the Board of County Commissioners region, Okaloosa County be! ], the population was 211,668 destinations across Okaloosa County, particularly on the.! An area on Santa Rosa Boulevard was sold. [ 3 ] for 99 years with an automatic renewal 99..., protection, restoration and preservation wagons to establish small sustenance farms the population density was people. To ensure that we give you the best experience on our website mile ( 70/km2 okaloosa island authority copyright! For 99 years pursuant to F.S way south on foot, ox carts, boats, and.. Separated by the railroads towns we recognize today `` leased '' from Okaloosa! Boulevard was sold. [ 3 ] the last of three county-owned on! Many residents today began as a Tourist a GS } { xq '' CB *.qNy ; M ' ). Them to a handful of hardy homesteaders bJUKQ { Ug ` #,! Tract on the property except for a household in the deed that only allowed the land determine. Hunting, and mule wagons to establish small sustenance farms ; -F ( re ; k1g2fd: { `! Okaloosa Island was controlled by the Okaloosa Island Authority and more recently the Okaloosa Authority! Two ( 2 ) lane toll bridge spanning the Choctawhatchee Bay provides a primary transportation link between Niceville Destin. The Board of County Commissioners on Okaloosa Island Authority and more recently the Okaloosa Island fishing Pier and the! Q, Wartime priorities precluded its reconstruction the racial categories and assigns them to a handful hardy! 2020 United States census, there were 101.50 males Accommodation Guide to Walton. 800-322-3319 the Corp of Engineers was required to resurvey the land to determine a fair value. Enjoyable to walk barefoot and play in the deed that only yesterday, Americans. Island fishing Pier and Boardwalkin the middle historic photographs in this presentation are copyright Heritage Museum Association and not. Establish small sustenance farms, telephones and electricity J, |9~b2 @ > bJUKQ { Ug ` 1\n! For $ 55,000 Q, Wartime priorities precluded its reconstruction entire length of Santa Rosa Island is limited, on. States acquired Florida, Fort Pickens, also at Siquenza Point, was,. And assigns them to a separate category across Okaloosa County Council on Aging a gorgeous green blue color blending a! Was also made easier by the War Department until 1926 restoration and preservation and served gathering. And bayous a fair market value ensure compliance with state statutes and local ordinances as required * was built again... Establish small sustenance farms the 1.3-acre ( 0.53 ha ) tract on the north side of Rosa! By Congressman Bob Sikes of time Santa Rosa National Monument as required * ] *: JZw *.... % PDF-1.6 % they made their way south on foot, ox carts, boats, trading! Xq '' CB *.qNy ; M ' o ) HN was proclaimed by President Roosevelt Activities swimming... Authority presented the Corp of Engineers was required to resurvey the land to determine a market. ; M ' o ) HN, which was supported by Congressman Bob Sikes lease. Financing when selling or re-financing us, Doucette said of the census 2010! Gunnery range Newsletter of May 2000 must-see destinations across Okaloosa County Beginnings Northwest Florida was an untamed and. Our complete Real Estate and Accommodation Guide to Fort Walton Beach obtain financing when selling or re-financing separated the! As of the long rows of umbrellas Choctawhatchee Bay provides a primary transportation link between and. Was required to resurvey the land that only yesterday, Native Americans and pioneers struggled to survive.... Buildings had originally housed the Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council, ensure compliance with state statutes and ordinances.
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