In general, it is the tax collector's job to prepare and mail out property tax bills. Contrary to popular belief, it is not this person's job to determine how much the property owner will be paying in taxes. The collector is just the messenger. He or she is also responsible for collecting the tax monies owed and distributing them appropriately. When taxes go unpaid for a certain period of time, it is also the tax collector's duty to submit the proper paperwork for putting a lien against the property. The collector must also keep detailed records of when taxes are paid as well as any interest or fees that have been charged. The exact duties of a tax collector vary from state to state and even from county to county. This is because each region has a different number of various taxes that must be paid. Some tax collectors also do a number of other jobs and services to the community as well.

In Florida, the Escambria County Tax Collector is Janet Holley. She operates four offices and has 89 employees throughout Escambria County. Her office is funded by the money she earns for the services she provides. Holley is responsible for collecting taxes for the City of Pensacola, Town of Century, Sheriff, the District School Board, the Board of County Commissioners, Northwest Florida Management District, Department of Revenue, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Her office also issues the registration documents and titles for various vessels and motorized vehicles. It also sells hunting and fishing licenses in addition to collecting real estate and personal property taxes. Drivers Licenses can also be obtained through the Tax Collector's office, but this is done by appointment online.

Janet Holley has been the tax collector for Escambria County since being appointed to the office in 1998 by the governor, and she is a Certified Florida Collector and licensed real estate sales person. She has worked in the tax collecting industry since 1973. During her career she has received numerous forms of recognition and continues to be an active member of the community.