During a recent Code Magistrate Hearing in Bay County, significant discussions centered around unauthorized construction activities that have raised concerns among residents. The meeting, held on June 11, 2025, featured testimony from Donna Newell, a contractor liaison and trades investigator from the Building Safety Division.

Newell detailed a site visit prompted by a complaint from a neighbor regarding a structure being built without the necessary permits. Upon arrival, investigators found evidence of active construction, including building materials, but no permits had been issued for the property. This lack of compliance with building regulations is a serious issue, as it poses potential safety risks and undermines community standards.

The structure in question, as highlighted in the meeting, clearly required a building permit, which was not obtained. This situation underscores the importance of adhering to local building codes to ensure safety and proper oversight in construction practices.

In addition to this primary discussion, the hearing included a review of other compliance issues, although details on those topics were less emphasized. The outcomes of these discussions will likely lead to further actions aimed at enforcing building regulations and addressing community concerns about unauthorized construction.

As Bay County continues to navigate these challenges, the focus remains on protecting residents and maintaining the integrity of the community's development standards. The next steps will involve ensuring compliance and possibly implementing stricter measures to prevent similar issues in the future.