Milton lifts boil water advisory after Hurricane Isaias recovery

The City of Milton announced Thursday that it has lifted a precautionary boil water advisory that was in effect for all city water customers following Hurricane Isaias. The advisory is no longer necessary after water services were restored and required water quality testing confirmed the system is safe for normal use, according to a city news release. Residents no longer need to boil water before drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or other household activities. The precautionary measure had been issued due to storm-related disruptions to the city's water system and concerns about potential contamination from reduced water pressure during the hurricane's aftermath. The City of Milton thanked utility crews, emergency responders, and residents for their patience during the restoration process. Residents with questions about water services can contact the city at (850) 983-5400.

Milton extends emergency declaration through Oct. 18 after Hurricane Isaias

The City of Milton has extended its local state of emergency through Sunday, October 18, following Hurricane Isaias, according to a city news release issued today. Mayor Heather Lindsay signed Resolution No. 2026-22, extending the emergency declaration that was originally issued on October 8.

The extension allows Milton to continue using emergency powers to protect public health, safety, and welfare. Those powers include expediting emergency contracts, securing equipment and supplies, deploying personnel and volunteers, and reallocating resources to support ongoing response and recovery operations.

City officials noted that the extension does not impose new restrictions on residents or issue additional evacuation orders. The city says it remains focused on protecting public safety, restoring essential services, and supporting residents affected by the hurricane.

Santa Rosa County warns of contractor scams after storms

Santa Rosa County Building Inspections is alerting residents to be on guard against unlicensed contractors and scammers seeking to exploit homeowners dealing with storm damage repairs.

Following major storms, con artists and unqualified workers often target property owners trying to fix damage quickly. The county is urging residents to take precautions before hiring anyone for repairs, including roofing, electrical, or structural work.

Key steps to protect yourself: verify any contractor's license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation at MyFloridaLicense.com; avoid door-to-door solicitations or pressure to make quick decisions; never pay the full project cost upfront, especially in cash; get all work details in writing with a contract covering scope, materials, cost, payment schedule, and completion date; and confirm whether permits are required—many storm repairs do need them.

Red flags to watch for include contractors who won't provide license information, discourage permits or inspections, or ask you to pull a permit as an owner-builder when they'll actually do the work. Santa Rosa County Building Inspections can answer questions at (850) 981-7000 before you hire. To report suspected unlicensed contracting, contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation online.