When the COVID-19 pandemic slammed the brakes on the local economy, Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano thought it would mean that he’d be able to return about half of the money that he typically returns to the county each year.
But, it turned out that the tax collector’s offices were able to continue operations — with adaptations, and last week, Fasano presented a check topping $3 million, more than double what he expected.
“God bless my staff; we were able to keep things going, even though we had to close our lobbies. We still continued to provide service,” Fasano said. “I will also tell you that we’re No. 1 in the state, and continue to be, in giving out concealed weapons permits.”
He praised the work of County Administrator Dan Biles.
“Dan Biles has been phenomenal in leading us through this serious crisis,” Fasano said, noting his offices were able to stay open — using temperature gauging and other precautions to keep people safe.
“We’re able to give people tickets so they can wait in their cars, and they are texted when their numbers come up. And, Dan has been outstanding in making sure that happened, and we appreciate that,” Fasano said.
Fasano presented a check for $3,457,000 to the county, of which he requested $305,000 to renovate a building in San Antonio to house his office’s department that oversees printing and mailing of tax notices, registration renewals and other materials.
“With that said, we’re asking that from that $3,457,000 — $305,000 be put to the side,” Fasano said, to pay that contractor. “You can keep $3.1 million. I want $305,000,” Fasano said.
Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore assured Fasano that the request was on the board’s consent agenda, which was subsequently approved by the board.
Published November 04, 2020
