Biography - Verdenia C. Baker
County Administrator
Verdenia, a certified government financial manager, has been Palm Beach County’s Administrator since 2015. She oversees 7,100 positions and balances a $7.9 billion budget. Palm Beach County is Florida’s third largest county, with 1.5 million residents and growing. Notably Palm Beach is one of five Florida counties and one of 51 counties nationally achieving the AAA bond rating, critical for financial stability.
Verdenia’s career with Palm Beach County began as a budget analyst in 1987. She demonstrates the ability to collaborate with strategic partners to enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses. Verdenia led negotiations in recruiting the Florida Scripps Research Institute to Palm Beach County, a foundation of the local biotechnology industry. Verdenia again was the leader in a voter-approved 2016 Infrastructure Sales Tax initiative. Estimates are to generate $2.7 billion for new and renovated schools, roads and facilities over a 10-year period.
Recognizing equality of housing, representation, and business opportunities for all, Verdenia led initiatives such as the Mandatory Inclusionary Workforce Housing Program and Community Land Trust and re-implemented the small/minority/women business enterprise program in 2019. Verdenia is actively involved with tourist development, securing events such as the third presidential debate in 2012, Super Bowls in 2001, 2007 and 2020, and Major League Baseball Spring Training expansion. Achievements for Census redistricting in 2000, 2010 and 2020.
Verdenia holds a Master of Science Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Rehabilitative Services, both from Florida State University. Verdenia affiliates with national, state, local, professional and community organizations and has received numerous accolades. While Verdenia’s acknowledgments span decades, her recognitions in 2021, 2022, and 2023 include the Former President of the Florida Association of County Managers, a collective body of all 67 counties in Florida. Verdenia was one of 15 awarded Women Who Move the Nation by COMTO, the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials in Washington, D.C. South Florida Business & Wealth selected Verdenia as an honoree at its 2022 Excellence in Leadership Apogee Awards.
Verdenia is married to Joe and they have two daughters, Jasmin, Shannee, and granddaughter, Lauren Nicole.