Bob Henriquez: The Ideal Choice for Hillsborough County Property Appraiser

Introduction to the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser Role

The Hillsborough County Property Appraiser plays a vital role in the assessment of property values for tax purposes within the county. Responsible for evaluating hundreds of thousands of individual parcels, the appraiser ensures that property taxes are assessed accurately. Key responsibilities include:

• Determining market values for properties
• Administering homestead and other tax exemptions
• Maintaining ownership maps of all real estate

With an office staff of 104 employees and an annual budget of $15 million, the appraiser is elected for a four-year term and earns an annual salary of $205,918.

A Closer Look at Bob Henriquez

Experience and Background

Incumbent Bob Henriquez, who has held the position since 2012, has established a reputation for running a fair and professional office. As a Tampa native and a graduate of Princeton University, Henriquez has deep community ties and extensive experience in government.

• Former Hillsborough County Planner
• Elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1998 for four terms
• Regional director of the state’s child protection program

His broad experience equips him to handle the complexities of property appraisal and contribute positively to the community.

Commitment to Modernization and Transparency

Since taking office, Henriquez has focused on modernizing the appraisal process with initiatives such as:

• Expanding public outreach to help property owners understand their rights for deductions.
• Regular meetings with realtors and stakeholders to clarify appraisal processes and assist with appeals.
• Development of a web-based portal for easier public access to property information.

He prioritizes transparency and accountability in his role, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to keeping current with training and technology.

The Challenger: John Ballance

John Ballance, a 63-year-old retired corporate sales executive, is challenging Henriquez. As a first-time candidate, Ballance purports to guarantee fair assessments and aims to eliminate perceived biases in county appraisals, although he has not elaborated on specific strategies.

Why Bob Henriquez Stands Out

Henriquez is recognized as a straight shooter and a dedicated public servant, maintaining strong community ties through roles such as:

• Head football coach at his alma mater, Tampa Catholic High School
• Active engagement in local civic issues

His understanding of the law and dedication to helping property owners navigate appraisal and tax questions highlight his effectiveness in the role of Property Appraiser.

What the Editorial Board Recommends

The Tampa Bay Times Editorial Board strongly endorses Bob Henriquez for the position of Hillsborough County Property Appraiser, citing his high standards and commitment to public service as primary advantages.

The Recommendation Process: Transparency in Endorsements

The recommendation process used by the Times Editorial Board includes:

• Candidate questionnaires
• Personal interviews
• Criminal and civil background checks
• Review of voting records and financial disclosures

This rigorous procedure ensures that endorsements are grounded in thorough analysis and fact.

Conclusion

In a pivotal election, the choice for Hillsborough County Property Appraiser is clear: Bob Henriquez has demonstrated the necessary experience, commitment, and integrity to continue serving the community effectively. For more details on candidate qualifications and local elections, consider visiting Hillsborough County’s Elections Office for credible updates.