A heated discussion unfolded during the Bay County Code Magistrate Hearing on June 11, 2025, as property compliance and mental health issues took center stage. The hearing focused on a property owner’s ongoing struggle with code enforcement and the challenges surrounding their son’s mental health.

The property owner addressed the magistrate, explaining that a previous violation regarding a blighted structure led to the current complaint about a fence. They asserted that the fence had been removed, bringing the property into compliance as of the previous day. "If code enforcement had driven by yesterday afternoon, they would have seen the fence has totally been removed," the owner stated, emphasizing their commitment to resolving the issue.

However, the conversation quickly shifted to deeper concerns. The owner revealed that their son, who has severe mental health issues, is currently incarcerated in the Bay County Jail. "I've tried for three years to get him mental help," they lamented, highlighting the difficulties faced in accessing proper healthcare in Florida. The owner expressed frustration over the lack of support for mental health, stating, "The state of Florida basically has a situation where you either don’t get mental health."

The magistrate listened as the owner detailed a history of noise complaints from neighbors regarding a tenant who has since been evicted. Despite numerous calls, the sheriff's office found no violations, underscoring the challenges the owner faced in maintaining peace in the neighborhood.

As the hearing concluded, the owner assured the magistrate that the remaining compliance issues would be addressed promptly, stating, "I will have the fence in compliance within the next week or so." The case reflects not only the complexities of property code enforcement but also the pressing need for better mental health resources in the community.