Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez has been sworn in for his fourth consecutive term, marking a significant milestone in his public service career. This transition occurs as the county also sees a change in its top legal counsel, with Julia Mandell appointed as the new County Attorney. These developments underscore ongoing leadership and administrative continuity within key Hillsborough County offices.
Key Takeaways
- Bob Henriquez begins his fourth term as Hillsborough County Property Appraiser.
- Henriquez was re-elected after defeating Republican challenger John Ballance.
- Julia Mandell has been appointed as the new Hillsborough County Attorney, succeeding Christine Beck.
- Former Senator Tom Lee will not challenge Henriquez for the Property Appraiser position.
Henriquez Secures Fourth Term
Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez officially commenced his fourth term in office, with the oath administered by former Hillsborough County Public Defender Julianne Holt. Henriquez, a Democrat, secured his re-election victory in November against Republican candidate John Ballance, garnering nearly 52% of the vote. He expressed a commitment to continuous improvement, aiming to make his office a national and international model for property appraisal services.
Prior to his tenure as Property Appraiser, Henriquez served eight years as a State Representative and held positions in county planning and administration. His background also includes extensive experience as a high school football coach. In his current role, Henriquez oversees a tax roll exceeding $100 billion, managing over 500,000 property parcels and administering various tax exemptions and classifications.
Leadership Changes in County Attorney’s Office
In a separate but significant administrative change, Julia Mandell has been appointed as the new Hillsborough County Attorney. She will succeed Christine Beck, who is retiring. Mandell, previously a Senior Assistant County Attorney and City Attorney for Tampa, brings a wealth of experience in local government law. Her appointment aims to ensure a smooth transition in providing legal counsel to the Board of County Commissioners, the County Administrator, and all county departments, as well as constitutional officers.
Political Landscape and Future Elections
Former Florida Senator Tom Lee had considered running against Bob Henriquez for the Property Appraiser position but ultimately decided against it, citing family and private sector commitments. Lee informed Henriquez of his decision, with both expressing mutual respect. Henriquez, who has been the Property Appraiser since 2012, will serve a four-year term beginning in January 2025. The only other candidate currently filed for the position is Republican John Corey Ballance.
Sources
- Bob Henriquez sworn in for fourth term as Hillsborough Property Appraiser, Florida Politics.
- Former Sen. Lee will not run for Hillsborough property appraiser against Bob Henriquez, Florida’s Voice.
- Bob ‘Coach’ Henriquez Wants To Continue To Serve As Hillsborough County Property Appraiser, Osprey Observer.
- Julia Mandell named Hillsborough County Attorney, Florida Politics.