The Bay County Code Magistrate Hearing held on June 11, 2025, focused on ongoing issues related to an unsafe structure located in the county. The meeting began with a review of the property’s inspection history, highlighting multiple violations and the lack of proper permits for construction activities.

The hearing revealed that the property had changed ownership several times, with the most recent transfer occurring on May 10, 2024. Despite previous ownership, no construction permits had been issued, and complaints from neighbors regarding ongoing construction activities prompted further inspections. A representative from the Bay County Building Department reported that a stop work order had been issued multiple times due to unauthorized construction.

During the inspection conducted on January 14, 2025, officials noted the presence of a half-built elevated structure and additional building materials on-site, indicating continued work despite the stop work order. A subsequent inspection on February 12, 2025, confirmed that the original stop work order had been removed, but another was promptly issued due to ongoing violations.

The building official, Robert Boulet, confirmed the structure's unsafe condition, citing the absence of safety measures such as railings and barriers, which could pose risks to public safety. Boulet emphasized that the lack of oversight from a Florida registered design professional contributed to the structural issues observed, including uneven elevations on the deck.

Despite attempts to contact the current property owner, notices of violation were returned unclaimed, and no communication had been established. The Code Enforcement team decided to pursue action under the unsafe structure ordinance, with a compliance hearing scheduled for July 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by Bay County in enforcing building codes and ensuring public safety, particularly in cases involving properties with a history of non-compliance. The upcoming compliance hearing will determine the next steps in addressing the unsafe conditions of the property.