Larry D. Hart Biography

A great pair of boots and a smile will take you places, just ask Larry D. Hart, Tax Collector.  Introducing himself as “Your Friendly Tax Collector,” it is clear that public service has been the driving force in Larry’s life.   As a graduate from local Riverdale High School, Edison Community College and Barry University, he has been a fixture in Lee County.   Larry was elected Lee County Tax Collector in 2012 after being appointed to the position by Governor Rick Scott.  Prior to being appointed Tax Collector, Larry served as Lee County’s Assistant Tax Collector for 11 years.  His focus has remained steadfast since joining the Lee County Tax Collector’s office: treat everyone who walks through the door with kindness and respect.

Larry’s devotion to public service began many years ago when he served our country in the United Sates Armed Services.  He entered the police academy after military service and is a proud graduate of the 161st session of the FBI National Academy.  Larry served in law enforcement for 22 years and was the first African American Police Chief for the City of Fort Myers.  While serving his community as a law enforcement officer, Larry developed a deep understanding for the needs of his community and has given selflessly to many organizations throughout the years focused on issues such as education and mental health care.  In 2001 he was appointed by Governor Jeb Bush to the Board of Trustees for Florida Gulf Coast University and reappointed by Governors Charlie Crist and Rick Scott. He held the position of Chairman of the Board of Trustees until his appointment as Tax Collector. 

Currently, Larry is Board Trustee for the Quality Life Center; and serves on the Board of Directors for the United Way, Hope Hospice, SalusCare and Florida Gulf Coast University Advocacy Program, Florida Gulf Coast University Finance Cooperation, The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida and the I Will Foundation.  Always encouraging public service for our youth and excellence in law enforcement, Larry sits on the Congressional Nominating Committee that recommends students to attend our Military Academies, the FBI National Academy Association, and the International Police Chiefs Association.

As Tax Collector, Larry is responsible for the oversight of daily operations in all seven Lee County Tax Collector Service Centers and organizational strategic development.  Larry’s collaborative team approach develops and implements program goals for innovative and quality service. 

Having previously served as President of the Florida Tax Collector’s Association, and Chairman of Governor DeSantis’ Transition Advisory Committee, Larry has developed strong working relationships with various state agencies and our local delegation.  Larry takes pride in the Lee County Tax Collector Office’s dedication to customer focused service.