OKEECHOBEE – Okeechobee County Commissioners honored County Administrator Deborah Manzo at their March 26 meeting in the Historic Okeechobee County Courthouse. It was her last public meeting, as Manzo is retiring. She will continue to be available to the county remotely for 90 days.

Commissioners presented Mrs. Manzo with a proclamation stating:

“On Jan. 8, 2026, Mrs. Manzo announced her retirement from her position as County Administrator of Okeechobee County. Mrs. Manzo was appointed County Administrator on June 28, 2021 and her final day in the office will be March 31, 2026, after which she will support the team remotely for her final three months.

“During Mrs. Manzo’s five-year tenure with Okeechobee County, she has advanced the County’s mission by delivering responsive government services to its citizens in a well-managed, cost[1]effective, fiscally responsible, and policy-driven manner. Through her strong leadership, business acumen, and fiscal oversight, the County has achieved a high standard of operational excellence and efficiency.

“ Mrs. Manzo was instrumental in securing federal and state grants, and in 2025 alone the  county managed more than 70 active grants county-wide, representing $38.48M in funded projects,  26 grants totaling $5.6M for projects such as Berman Road Improvement, 120th Street Improvement, Airport Apron Rehabilitation, FEMA Disaster grants, along with many other grant projects.

“ Mrs. Manzo’s retirement marks the conclusion of a 41-year distinguished career in government, with her final five years in Okeechobee County, all defined by forward-thinking leadership, steady guidance, and genuine friendship. Throughout her service, she demonstrated a clear vision for the future, consistently positioning the organization for long-term success through thoughtful planning and sound decision-making. Her guidance and mentorship provided stability, clarity, and confidence to those she led, fostering professional growth and accountability. Equally meaningful were the personal relationships she built, as her approachability, kindness, and respect created a supportive and collaborative workplace. These qualities have left a legacy, and her leadership, guidance, and  friendship will be deeply missed as she begins a well-earned retirement.”

“It has been a pleasure serving you,” said Manzo. “It has been wonderful being here.”

At a previous meeting, commissioners agreed to consider county employees for the position before considering outside candidates. Jessica Bezares was the only internal candidate for the position. At the March 25 meeting, commissioners voted to begin negotiations with her for the county administrator job. She had already been chosen as the interim administrator.