Magistrate extends deadline for property cleanup in Bay County case

In a pivotal Bay County Code Magistrate Hearing on July 10, 2025, significant progress was made regarding a property at 9407 Indian Bluff Road, which has been under scrutiny for code violations. The magistrate granted a 30-day extension for the property owner, Austin Bruce Savage, to comply with previous orders, including securing necessary permits and addressing outstanding issues.

The hearing highlighted a series of compliance failures dating back to earlier orders, with the magistrate noting that Savage had not met the requirements set forth in previous hearings. However, Savage reported substantial cleanup efforts, claiming to have removed approximately 15,000 pounds of trash from the property. He is now working with an engineer to develop plans for further renovations.

The magistrate emphasized the importance of adhering to the timeline, stating, "This helps to let a little fire under them and get them moving." The order mandates that Savage must obtain engineering approval and permits within the next 30 days, with a follow-up compliance hearing scheduled for August 14, 2025.

In addition to the compliance requirements, the magistrate ordered Savage to pay $3,300 in abatement costs incurred by the county, plus statutory interest. This decision underscores the ongoing efforts by Bay County to ensure property owners maintain their properties in accordance with local codes, addressing community concerns about neglected properties.

As the hearing concluded, the magistrate expressed optimism about the progress being made, stating, "I'm glad to see just you here. And we're able to get things moving in the right direction for you." The next steps will be crucial for Savage as he navigates the permitting process and continues his efforts to rehabilitate the property.