The Florida Tax Collector Association (FTCA) recently awarded Lee County Tax Collector Larry Hart with the ‘Matt Langley Bell III’ award. This honor is given to a tax collector who has made a lasting and significant impact both on the FTCA and the citizens of Florida.
The award, named after the late Escambia County official, was established in 1999. Hart is just the 7th recipient of the award, as honorees are chosen based on their entire body of work within the FTCA and their time as tax collectors. During his time as a member of the FTCA, Hart has served as the organization’s President and Legislative Chair.
Nassau County Tax Collector John Drew and Brevard County Tax Collector Lisa Cullen nominated Hart for the award. “Larry has tirelessly volunteered his time and energy to better our profession and the elected office of tax collector,” said Drew.
Hart, who is retiring as Lee County Tax Collector this year, was surprised to be honored by the FTCA. “The Matt Bell award is something that isn’t given every year, so it came as quite a shock when my name was called,” said Hart. “Matt was a pillar of both his county and the Tax Collector Association, so I’m incredibly honored and grateful to join the small group of people who have received this award.”
