Commissioner Chris Scherer

Chris Scherer is not a politician.

Chris is a General Contractor, Home Builder, Real Estate Broker, Business Owner, Father and a 38-year resident of Pinellas County.  First elected to public office in November of 2024 as your At-large County commissioner, Chris is committed protecting and enhancing the Beautiful Natural Environment, Quality of Life, Business environment and the affordable lifestyle that drew him to Pinellas County in 1989.

Chris relocated to Pinellas County in 1989, recognizing it as the ideal place to build a good life and pursue the American dream. In 2023, Deeply concerned by the soaring cost of housing, persistent water pollution challenges, a burdensome tax environment, and excessive regulations, Chris chose to run for public office and put his financial training, business acumen and experience to work for the people of the County he loves to call home.

A graduate of Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in finance, Chris obtained his Florida Class-A Contractor’s and Real Estate Brokerage licenses shortly after moving to the area. In 1999, he founded his family-owned development and construction business, which he proudly operates to this day, providing jobs and contributing to the local economy.

In his first year on the Commission, Chris has taken decisive action to address key challenges. He personally visited major wastewater treatment plants throughout Pinellas County in 2025, gaining firsthand insight into operations and advocating for emergency containment measures to prevent spills and ensure our beautiful waterways stay clean and protected.

Chris also worked diligently during the 2025 budget season to lower tax millage rates for the County, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) and Forward Pinellas as the newest member of their boards.  Chris is very proud to report that all three of these county wide taxing authorities lowered their taxable millage rates for the current fiscal year.

In addition to his work and responsibilities as County Commissioner, Chris enthusiastically and diligently serves the people of Pinellas County on the following Boards:

• Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA).  Working to reduce the agency’s tax burden on our citizens, consolidate its operations and stream line operations.
• Forward Pinellas (MPO/PPC) – Shaping transportation, land use, and planning for sustainable growth, where Chris is looking toward the future to balance development with preserving Pinellas County’s unique character.
• Business Technology Services (BTS) – Overseeing innovative and cost-effective technology solutions for county operations.
• Consolidated Justice Information Systems (CJIS) – Enhancing coordination and efficiency in justice system data and technology platforms.
• County Attorney Oversight Committee (CAOC) – Providing guidance and accountability for legal services.
• Early Learning Coalition (Gubernatorial Appointment) – Advocating for quality early childhood education and development programs.
• Public Safety Coordinating Council (PSCC) – Supporting law enforcement and coordinated public safety efforts.
• Value Adjustment Board (VAB) – Ensuring fair property tax assessments and appeals.