Hillsborough County Tax Collector Honors Legacy of Civil Rights Advocate Mary Alice Dorsett at North Tampa Office Grand Reopening

Commissioner Gwen Myers, former Mayor Bob Buckhorn, and Dorsett’s family joined Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan to officially open the upgraded 22,000 sq ft office

The Hillsborough County Tax Collector commemorated the grand opening of the North Tampa branch expansion today, honoring the legacy of Tampa civil rights activist Mary Alice Dorsett in a heartfelt dedication ceremony that celebrated community service, growth, and innovation.

Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan was joined by County Commissioner Gwen Myers, former Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, and family of Mary Alice Dorsett at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the 22,000 sq ft. expanded branch, now the largest Tax Collector’s office in the County.

“Mary Alice Dorsett was a visionary who saw the potential in every individual and every corner of our community. As a Latina woman elected to office myself, I stand here today because of the boundaries that Mrs. Dorsett broke through and her tireless fight for equality and the betterment of our community” said Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan.

“The rededication of the expanded office in Mrs. Dorsett’s honor is a tribute to her remarkable contributions to our community. The Tax Collector’s office serves so many people every day, and we are honored to celebrate her legacy and ensure she continues to inspire generations to come.”

Mary Alice Dorsett was a spirited civil rights advocate, a pioneering businesswoman, and a committed community leader. She blazed trails in education and politics, becoming the first African-American woman to run for public office in Hillsborough County. Her efforts focused on advocating for the rights of African Americans, marginalized groups, the impoverished, and the homeless.

The rededication ceremony took place amidst a celebration of growth and enhanced service offerings at the North Tampa Branch. The recent expansion project added 5000 sq ft, making it the largest branch in the County with more than 22,000 sq ft of service area. The office now features 36 service stations, including 4 driver’ license camera stations, upgraded ADA-height counters for improved accessibility, a separate area for concealed weapon permits and the upcoming introduction of 6 self-service stations and 3 virtual agent stations in the new year.

So far this month, the Tax Collector’s office is serving an average of 700 customers daily at this location, with continued growth expected.

Dedicated initially to Mary Alice Dorsett in 2001 and rededicated in 2011 upon relocation, the expanded North Tampa Tax Collector’s office now stands proudly rededicated to Mrs. Dorsett once more after 12 years, ensuring her remarkable contributions continue to inspire generations.

The expanded North Tampa branch is a full-service location, open Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm and Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 pm. For more information or to make an appointment, please visit hillstax.org.