About Mayor Danise "DeeDee" Henriquez

Born in Key West, Florida, Mayor Danise "DeeDee" Henriquez has dedicated her life to public service in Monroe County.  Her career began in November 1985 as a floater in the Monroe County Tax Collector's office.  Over the years, she worked her way up through the ranks, ultimately becoming Monroe County's first female Tax Collector in 2000, a position she held with distinction for nearly two decades. 

Throughout her tenure, Mayor Henriquez demonstrated exceptional leadership and fiscal responsibility, returning over $70 million in unused fees back to the county.  Under her guidance, the Tax Collector's office consistently received excellent audit results with no findings or recommendations—a testament to her commitment to transparency and efficiency.

In addition to her financial stewardship, Mayor Henriquez expanded the services offered by the Tax Collector's office, taking over the management of all three driver's license offices in the county.  In 2015, the Board of County Commissioners entrusted her office with the enforcement duties on vacation rentals, highlighting her capability and dedication to serving the community.

After 31 years in government service, Mayor Henriquez continues to lead with the same passion and dedication that marked her career.  She is now serving as the Mayor of Key West, where she remains committed to the well-being and prosperity of her beloved community.

DeeDee and her husband Ralph have been married for 42 years.  They have two children, a son named Ralphie and a daughter named Ashley, who is married to Ben McMahan.  DeeDee and Ralph are proud grandparents to Isabelle and Benjamin McMahan.  DeeDee and Ralph are also the owners of Kilwin's on Duval Street.