HOW I WORK: An inside look at how Fort Walton Beach Councilman Ben Merrell juggles waterfront businesses, big projects, and a hands-on approach

HOW I WORK: An inside look at how Fort Walton Beach Councilman Ben Merrell juggles waterfront businesses, big projects, and a hands-on approach

Ben Merrell may not have been born in Fort Walton Beach, but after moving here as a child following Hurricane Andrew, this community became home. Today, his work touches nearly every corner of the waterfront — from Power Up Watersports and Soundside Waterfront Bar to tour boats and the redevelopment of the former Playground Inn property. As a business owner and elected Fort Walton Beach City Councilman, Ben’s days are anything but predictable. …