Tax collector undecided

Brooksville, Fla. - Hernando County Tax Collector is considering her options as several of her fellow constitutional officers plan their respective retirements as their terms expire. 


As Hernando County Property Appraiser Alvin Mazourek and Clerk of Court Karen Nicolai announce their retirements, Juanita Sikes is taking time to reflect on her future options as tax collector.  New changes to state law has increased the work load for her employees which requires her office to conduct driver's license exams. But Sikes has taken the role in stride. 


Sikes was quick to act on the US98 driver's license office as the state vacated the building in October.  She was able to move her personnel into a ready-made facility.   After changes to state law, an additional 2,000 customers needing drivers licenses used Tax Collector's office in Spring Hill in August causing some confusion.  With the opening of  US98 facility, Sikes says the customers are now being better served with their appointments for driver's license renewals. 


The tax collector's office work load has an anticipated annual increase of 25,000 additional customers  with the implementation of drivers license examinations. But Sikes said her decision to run again in 2012 will be based on her personal decision - a decision to based on what's best for her and her family.


"I don't know what I'll  do this time," Sikes said.  I have considered retiring, but have not made up my mind yet." 


Sikes' husband would like to see her retire after the completion of her term.  He retired in 2005, but Sikes says they have considerations just like anyone else.  Her primary concern is the enormous cost of health insurance because she won't be eligible for Medicare for a few more years. 


"I'm not even  60-years old and don't know if I'm ready to retire," Sikes said.