The Special Magistrate Hearing held on January 9, 2025, in Fort Pierce addressed significant code violations and permit issues affecting local properties. The meeting primarily focused on two cases, highlighting the city's ongoing efforts to enforce compliance with building regulations.
In the first case, an inspector from the City of Fort Pierce reported a violation involving construction work being conducted without the necessary permits. The inspector discovered the situation during routine inspections and confirmed that only a right-of-way permit had been issued, which was insufficient for the work being done. The magistrate ruled that the violator must obtain the required permits within 60 days and comply with all conditions, or face a daily fine of $100. The violator also has 30 days to appeal the decision.
The second case involved the Boardwalk Condominium Association at 715 South Ocean Drive, which faced multiple violations of the International Property Maintenance Code. The association had previously been granted extensions but failed to comply, resulting in fines totaling $10,640 as of January 7, 2025. The magistrate allowed the association to present an update on their compliance efforts, indicating a willingness to consider their circumstances.
Overall, the hearing underscored the city's commitment to maintaining safety and compliance in construction and property management. The outcomes of these cases will likely influence future enforcement actions and community standards in Fort Pierce.