Breaking Down Language Barriers: Hillsborough County Tax Collector Receives National Award for Pioneering Translation Devices for Non-English Speakers

Led by Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan, Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office was the first in the state to implement the Pocketalk technology

** Link to video footage of Pocketalk devices in Hillsborough County **

TAMPA, Fla., December 18, 2023 – Six months after rolling out language translation devices in all its’ offices, capable of translating speech and text into 82 languages, Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan receives a national award recognizing her pioneering efforts in enhancing service accessibility for non-English speakers.

In a county of 1.5 million residents, which includes a substantial immigrant population, effective communication poses significant hurdles for non-English speakers accessing driver licenses, vehicle registrations, and other vital government services.

The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s office rolled out the Pocketalk handheld translation devices in all offices earlier this year, providing real-time, two-way speech and text translation. The technology empowers staff to bridge language gaps, making services more accessible and smoother for non-English speakers and reducing repeat office visits.

As the first Tax Collector in the state to adopt Pocketalk’s technology, Hillsborough County’s successful rollout has inspired 13 others across the state to implement it.

Recognizing her commitment to inclusion, Pocketalk awarded Tax Collector Millan with the esteemed Community Builder of the Year Award.

“Nancy Millan is truly deserving of our inaugural Community Builder of the Year award. As the first Tax Collector in Florida to implement Pocketalk devices, Nancy has transformed customer interactions, ensuring timely and compassionate service for all community members.” said Joe Miller, Pocketalk’s General Manager of North America.

“Through her leadership, Nancy and her team exemplify how technology can profoundly foster inclusivity and connectivity.”

Since taking the helm in 2021, Tax Collector Nancy Millan has implemented a range of measures to cultivate an inclusive environment that embraces diversity at every level. The office employs more than 400 staff across its 8 locations, 70% of whom represent minority populations. In January 2024, the office will introduce a Skill-Based Incentives Pay Program supporting its diverse team with monthly stipends for language proficiency and certifications.

“Implementing Pocketalk technology directly addresses a vital community need,” said Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan. “The technology is not a substitute for human connection, but a tool to enhance it. The handheld devices foster greater connectivity between our staff and Hillsborough County residents, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder access to essential government services.”

For video footage of the Pocketalk devices in action, including testimonials from Tax Collector Milan and Hillsborough County staff, click here.

For further information regarding services, locations, and to book appointments, visit www.hillstax.org

About Pocketalk

Pocketalk is the global leader in connecting the world and facilitating conversation through the only translation solutions on the market that enable an authentic communication experience. Pocketalk, which is HIPAA and GDPR-compliant, connect people of all backgrounds through language translation – fast, easy, and most importantly, accurate translation.  Developed, manufactured, and distributed by Sourcenext, the largest distributor and creator of software, hardware, and IoT products in Japan, Pocketalk officially launched in the U.S. in 2018 with headquarters in Palo Alto, Calif. The company offers translation solutions through the handheld Pocketalk collection, cloud-based Pocketalk App, and enterprise solutions including Ventana. The two-way translation solutions can translate 84+ languages and be utilized anywhere in the world with an internet or data connection. To find more information or purchase Pocketalk, visit Pocketalk.com.

About the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office

The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office is responsible for collecting and distributing local property, tangible, business, and tourist development taxes. In addition, as an agent for the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, they provide motor vehicle, vessel and mobile home titles and registrations, issue disabled parking permits, issue driver licenses and ID cards, and administer written tests and road tests. They also collect tolls and clear toll violations as part of motor vehicle transactions.

Additionally, they partner with other state and local government agencies to issue certified copies of Florida birth certificates and to provide concealed weapons permits, vehicle for hire permits, and hunting and fishing licenses.

The taxes and fees we collect are distributed in accordance with Florida Statute to the appropriate agency or municipality to fund vital services at the state and local levels.

For more information about the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office, visit their website at hillstax.org.

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