All registered voters in Okaloosa County can vote for this position.
The County Tax Collector is an elected official responsible for managing various aspects of the local tax collection process. The duties of a Florida County Tax Collector are diverse and encompass a range of financial and administrative responsibilities. Here are the key duties associated with this position:
Tax Collection: The primary responsibility of the County Tax Collector is to collect various taxes and fees imposed by state and local authorities. This includes property taxes, local business taxes, tourist development taxes, and other assessments.
Property Tax Administration: Administering property tax collection is a significant part of the role. The Tax Collector works closely with the Okaloosa County Property Appraiser to ensure accurate assessments and timely collection of property taxes.
Tourist Development Tax Collection: The Tax Collector may be responsible for collecting tourist development taxes on accommodations, such as hotels and vacation rentals.
Business Tax Receipts: The Tax Collector issues business tax receipts (formerly known as occupational licenses) to local businesses, ensuring compliance with local regulations and collecting the associated fees.
Motor Vehicle Services: The Tax Collector’s office often provides motor vehicle services, including processing vehicle registrations, issuing license plates, and collecting fees related to driver’s licenses and vehicle transactions.
Driver’s License Services: The Okaloosa Tax Collector’s Office is responsible for providing driver’s license services, such as renewals and replacements. They work in collaboration with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Boat and Vessel Registrations: The Tax Collector oversees the registration and titling of boats and vessels, collecting applicable fees and ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Local Business Taxes: Businesses operating within the county are required to pay local business taxes. The Tax Collector is responsible for assessing and collecting these taxes, promoting compliance with local business regulations.
Concealed Weapons Permits: The Tax Collector has partnered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to issue concealed carry permits.
Financial Reporting: The Tax Collector is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records related to tax collections and financial transactions. They may prepare and submit financial reports to relevant authorities.
Ben Anderson was appointed Okaloosa County Tax Collector in 2011 and has been re-elected three more times since. During his time as the Tax Collector, the office has been recognized by the Florida Tax Collector's Association for effecient government.
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