The Cooper City Special Magistrate meeting held on March 5, 2025, focused on compliance issues related to building permits and fines for local businesses. The session began with a review of ongoing cases, specifically addressing the status of permits and compliance for two establishments.

The first case involved Cargo Coffee, which had previously been cited for violations due to a lack of proper permits. The representative for Cargo Coffee provided an update, indicating that they were working with their contractor and architect to resolve outstanding issues. The magistrate noted that a compliance date had been set for January 30, 2025, and fines began accruing from January 31. However, the magistrate decided to postpone the certification of the fine until May 7, 2025, allowing the business additional time to address the necessary corrections and potentially reduce the fine based on compliance efforts.

The second case discussed was regarding a property owned by Ezra Abed and Oshurit Ahula, which faced fines for not obtaining the required permits for interior alterations. The owner explained that delays in receiving the notice of violation and subsequent issues with contractors contributed to the compliance challenges. The magistrate acknowledged the owner's efforts to rectify the situation by applying for the necessary permits, which were eventually issued after a lengthy review process. The magistrate considered the circumstances surrounding the delays and indicated that a maximum reduction of 50% of the accrued fine could be granted, taking into account both the owner's actions and external factors affecting compliance.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the importance of adhering to building regulations and the processes in place for addressing violations. The magistrate emphasized the need for businesses to work closely with contractors and the building department to ensure compliance and avoid further penalties. The next steps for both cases will be revisited in May, where further discussions on fines and compliance will take place.