History

In 1887, the Florida Legislature formed the state political subdivision of Lake County from parts of Orange and Sumter counties, and Andrew Jackson Cassady was appointed by the Governor to be its first Tax Collector. Throughout the history of the County, there have been only seven Tax Collectors.

Following Mr. Cassady, William G. Long was appointed in 1890. Mr. Long served until his death in 1923.

Pearl Cullen, daughter of Mr. Long, was appointed to fill her father’s unexpired term. She held that position until January, 1925. Ms. Cullen was the first woman in the State to hold the position of Tax Collector, and was also the first female Constitutional Officer in the State.

Boyce Williams was elected Tax Collector in 1924. Mr. Williams served from January, 1925 until 1941.

Pearl Cullen continued to work in the Tax Collector’s Office under Mr. William’s leadership. However, in 1941, Ms. Cullen was appointed to serve as Tax Collector for a second time. She retired from that position in July, 1959.

Paul Reed was appointed in July, 1959. Mr. Reed served as Chief Deputy Tax Collector from 1941 until his appointment in 1959.

In January, 1971, Governor Reubin Askew appointed T. Keith Hall. Mr. Hall began his career with the Lake County Tax Collector’s Office in August, 1963, serving as a motor vehicle clerk. He was serving as Chief Deputy at the time of his appointment in June, 1971.

Bob M^cKee was first elected in November, 1996, and was re-elected in 2000.