Politics & Government

Fasano Celebrated During Appointment to Tax Collector

Mike Fasano is embarking on a new job.

After years in the Florida Legislature, Mike Fasano is getting a new job.

Gov. Rick Scott officially appointed Fasano as Pasco County’s Tax Collector in a ceremony at New Port Richey City Hall Wednesday, Aug. 7.  Fasano replaces Mike Olson, who died last month while still holding the job.

Olson held the post 32 years and was the state’s longest-serving tax collector.

Fasano was elected to the Legislature in 1994 and has served continuously since then. He started in the House of Representatives, moving to the Senate and then returning to the House after the 2012 election. 

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He’s well known for service to constituents.  He’s lived in West Pasco since childhood and his name is familiar to many in the area.

Fasano, a Republican, is also known for being an independent thinker who has locked horns with Scott and his fellow legislators.

Find out what's happening in New Port Richeywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The governor had only praise and warm jokes for Fasano during Wednesday’s ceremony however. 

So did the cohort of lawmakers who accompanied him, including: House Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel; Sen. John Legg, R-Lutz; Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-New Port Richey; and Rep. Richard Corcoran, who represents the Trinity area and is a friend of Fasano’s. 

Fasano resigned from the House Aug. 6 and started his job with the Tax Collector's Office Wednesday. Officials are planning a special election to choose someone to fill his seat in the House.

Watch the video for Scott's appointment speech.


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