County Manager’s Office

County Manager: Douglas G. Baber

Douglas G. Baber is an accomplished local government executive with an MBA and over two decades of executive leadership experience steering Florida municipal and county operations. He serves as the County Manager for the Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners, providing strategic administrative leadership, fiscal oversight, and vision for the county’s growth and operations. For Doug, serving as Chief Administrative Officer is more than a role, it is a commitment to impactful public service, dedicated to driving community progress, enhancing the quality of life for residents, and building a resilient, prosperous future for Jefferson County.

Prior to stepping into this role, Doug served as the Assistant County Manager and Chief Financial Officer for Hardee County, where he managed strategic fiscal leadership and directed key legislative affairs. His extensive background in public administration includes serving as the Chief Administrative Officer for two municipal organizations in the State of Florida, where he successfully led multi-million-dollar post-hurricane infrastructure recovery efforts in close coordination with FEMA and FDEM. He also previously directed operations as the Human Resources and Risk Management Director for St. Lucie County.

A committed and highly credentialed professional, Doug is an ICMA Credentialed Manager Candidate, a SHRM-Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), a certified labor negotiator, and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Throughout his career, he has specialized in driving organizational efficiency, collective bargaining, and fostering transparent, proactive citizen engagement.

Assistant County Manager: Jennifer Tuten

Jennifer Tuten serves as Assistant County Manager, supporting the County Manager in the administration of county operations and day-to-day service delivery.

Jenny Tuten is a dedicated public servant and community-minded professional with a passion for making a positive impact in Jefferson County. Through her work in county government, she is committed to supporting effective leadership, serving the community, and helping move important initiatives forward.

Responsibilities of the Office

• Serve as administrative head of county government for the Board of County Commissioners
• Execute orders, resolutions, and policies adopted by the Board
• Attend Board meetings and provide recommendations on county business
• Appoint and remove county officers and employees, with Board approval
• Prepare the annual county budget in coordination with the Clerk of Court
• Supervise all county departments under the Board’s authority
• Serve as Personnel Director, Section 504 Housing Coordinator, and Public Records Custodian

Budgets & Annual Reports

County budgets, budget amendments, and financial reports are published on the Budget & Financial Transparency page.