Manatee County Tax Collector's Office recognizes several employees

MANATEE -- Brandon Hartwig, a Manatee County Tax Collector's Office employee, is the 2015 recipient of the Lillie Robinson Humanitarian Award.

Hartwig was nominated by peers and selected by the senior office team, according to a news release. Other nominees for the award given to an employee who "embodies the core value community and social responsibility" included Carmen McIlwaine and Wayne Hoefle.

"Brandon was recognized for his involvement with the youth of Manatee County," according to the release. "He has contributed nearly 180 volunteer hours the past year and is a tremendous representation of what Lillie Robinson believed in. After his mother's death from cancer, Brandon expanded his involvement in his church, volunteering after work multiple times a week and mentoring young adults in their faith journey."

Hartwig was one of several employees the Manatee County Tax Collector's Office recognized. Other winners include:

David Verhoff, the Tax Collector's Office Most Valuable Employee for 2015. Verhoff the led implementation of online appointments.

"David models our core values of excellence and accountability, innovation, integrity and respect, future focus, customer focus and teamwork," according to the news release.

Alexdia Kosmas, Tax Collector's Office Employee of the fourth quarter.

"Alex goes above and beyond looking for ways to improve the operation of (Specialized Driver License) and provide exemplary customer service," Tax Collector Ken Burton Jr. said. "She never hesitates when asked to step in as the acting team leader to run the department when needed."

Sixteen employees were recognized for perfect attendance: Ali Amraoui, Richard Bates, LaToya Benton, Sharmaine Bridges, Manuel Delgado, Jennifer Francis, Fred Hodges, Frankie James, Suzanne Kistler, Alex Kosmas, Carmen McIlwaine, Pam Pontious, Jarell Stinton, Erin Tucker, David Verhoff and Linda Wilson. Four employees missed it by less than an hour: Lupe Hernandez, Kay Horrell, Renee Medina and Keisha Williams.

Claire Aronson, Manatee County reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7024. Follow her on Twitternote>

This story was originally published October 15, 2015 at 12:03 AM with the headline "Manatee County Tax Collector's Office recognizes several employees ."