The annexation of Destin—Why?

While discussing Okaloosa County might be a simple conversation, it is actually about very real issues. It has been frustrating for the Destin City Council who has consistently provided the largest amount of money through donations to their tourist and properties for Okaloosa County. A few other resources were used, but it was predominantly Okaloosa County that funded them.

 It has been such a point of contention so much that annexation has become a serious point to consider for the counties. They would also create a new department of tourism. It isn't the most economical decision. When you consider that the law enforcement department was not covered by this plan, it is a considerably bad choice. County officials have said that they will cover the costs.

 Destin incorporated as a city in 1984. It covers 8.2 miles and gives the county $59 million or so in their taxes. The county also gets $11 million from taxpayers. Incorporating as a peninsula has really helped.

 If annexation happens, then the areas that aren't incorporated won't be able to support the tax base. Considering the $12 million income from the tourist industry in that part of the county now, annexation might be a bad choice too.

 The stretch in county size for the potential change is from Marler Bridge to Bay County Line. This has been done already in Destin and Walton County since 1984. The whole area of 12 miles that merge eastern Santa Rosa and western Walton was created over 100 years ago.

 Some have suggested that Destin should just be its own county completely. The only problem is there is some history of the area within the Florida Legislature. Change like this has not happened since 1925.

 In Gilchrist City there was a split from Alachua County. The creation of four separate counties happened in 1917 and they have remained since a small change that happened in 1999 and then again in 2000. The changes failed miserably. There have been a few failed similar attempts.

 A plan to create a city on the coast would be a great advance in the right direction for the area. Each of the counties can contribute taxes to make the counties more profitable. Here is a breakdown of the taxes that each one contributes.

 - Destin provides 27%.
 - South Walton gives 90%.
 - South Walton pays 88%.

 Destin Condos for Rent is one of the tourist locations that is involved in this tax base. It offers a significant contribution to the county. Traveling to the area is a wonderful beach-side event. When you consider the tax base issues and how staying there help, it just makes everything feel great. While the tax discussions continue you can enjoy the gorgeous sights and sounds of the area. You might even like it enough to stay. If you decide to do that, then just ask us how you can become one of those contributing taxpayers that adds so much to this little corner of paradise in Florida.