League of Women Voters SRQ announces inaugural Distinguished Public Service Award winner
Sarasota Herald-Tribune
April 21, 2025
The League of Women Voters of Sarasota County announce their first-ever Distinguished Public Service Award. This award will honor local leaders who exemplify professionalism, integrity, and outstanding service to our community.
Barbara Ford-Coates, who served as Sarasota County Tax Collector from 1984 to 2024, will be the inaugural recipient of this award. During her remarkable tenure, she spearheaded significant improvements to the department that became known for efficient and friendly service.
In addition to her official role as Sarasota County Tax Collector, Barbara Ford-Coates has been the treasurer of the League of Women Voters of Sarasota County, served on the board of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and has been an advisor to Girl Scout Troop 254. In 2008, she was recognized as the Outstanding Tax Collector in the United States, and in 2016 was named by Thomson Reuters as a Public Sector Champion for Excellence in Office Leadership.
According to LWVSRQ president Shawn Bartelt, “Barbara Ford-Coates’ record of service to our community is inspiring. She exemplifies the importance of civic engagement, a principle upon which the League was founded. We are grateful for her service.”
The League of Women Voters, a national grassroots nonpartisan political organization, encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy.