Pinellas tax collector will not run for reelection, endorses county GOP chair for the position

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Pinellas Tax Collector Charles W. Thomas announced he will not run for reelection and endorsed Republican Party of Pinellas County Chairman Adam Ross for the position.

“Knowing what it takes to lead and build on the excellent accomplishments of the Tax Collector Office, I am extremely excited to announce that Adam Ross will be the right candidate for the job and I have encouraged him to run,” Thomas said.

Ross was elected to his position in 2022 and served in the party for years prior. He graduated law school and became an assistant state attorney in 2011.

“His leadership skills, experience with county and state government, unparalleled commitment to serving this community, and private-sector business experience make him the ideal candidate,” Thomas said. “I strongly endorse and support Adam Ross for the next Pinellas County Tax Collector.”

Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna weighed in Wednesday, endorsing Ross for the position as well.

“Charles will be missed,” Luna said. “I look forward to seeing Adam Ross as the new tax collector! He is great and would do wonders for our community!”

Thomas’ retirement letter detailed his history when he began as the Chief Deputy Tax Collector more than 23 years ago. He noted how he was the driving force behind the Pinellas County Tax Collector’s Office Governor’s Sterling Award in 2013 and the Sterling Sustained Excellence Award in 2016.

Thomas was elected as tax collector in 2016.

“My platform and my vision for the office included a continuance of customer service excellence with an expansion to include internal customers and the PCTC workforce,” Thomas said.

His platform focused on a systematic approach to data as cyber security threats were increasing.

“We have continued to enjoy high levels of customer service, which now include internal customers as well,” Thomas said. “Significant progress has been made in systems and data security, including a data and systems recovery plan.”

“I am proud of my service to this community and the many accomplishments that I have made over the years in the Pinellas County Tax Collector’s Office and as the Pinellas County Tax Collector,” Thomas said. “Now, it is time to look in a new direction. I will not seek reelection for a third term.”