A Fort Pierce property owner expressed frustration during a Special Magistrate Hearing on June 12, 2025, over fines levied against her for building code violations. The owner, who had hired a contractor for renovations, claimed she was unaware of the violations and had not received any prior notification. The fines, totaling $6,000, were attributed to a backlog in the city’s building department, which had only recently caught up with outstanding cases.

The owner argued that the responsibility for obtaining necessary permits and inspections lay with the contractor, not her. "I thought that the contractor knew that he had to have a final inspection or he had to have permits," she stated, highlighting her belief that she should not be penalized for the contractor's oversight.

The magistrate explained that under city code, violations are tied to the property, meaning the owner is ultimately responsible regardless of the contractor's actions. While acknowledging the owner's frustration, the magistrate confirmed that the city could not change the code and suggested that the owner could pursue the contractor for any administrative fees through civil court.

In a decision to reduce the fine to the administrative cost of $1,176.85, the magistrate granted the owner a 90-day extension to pay. "If you do not pay it in the 90 days, it reverts to the original amount," the magistrate warned, emphasizing the importance of timely payment.

This case underscores ongoing challenges within Fort Pierce's building department, as residents navigate the complexities of property ownership and contractor responsibilities. The hearing also reflects broader issues regarding communication and accountability in local governance.