In a recent Bay County Code Magistrate Hearing, tensions ran high as officials addressed ongoing property violations in Lynn Haven. The meeting, held on August 14, 2025, focused on a property located at 930 West Pearson Drive, where the owner was found to have failed to comply with a previous order to clean up trash, debris, and overgrowth.

The magistrate expressed frustration, stating, “You were given 30 days to clean it up and you didn't do it. That's the bottom line.” This stern reminder underscored the seriousness of the situation, as the magistrate noted that the owner had not demonstrated any progress in rectifying the violations. As a result, the county's code enforcement staff was authorized to enter the property and address the issues directly.

The magistrate set a new deadline for the property owner, requiring them to obtain a building or demolition permit by September 9. Failure to meet this deadline could lead to the property being deemed unfit or unsafe, triggering further actions by the county. “You need to get on the stick, so to speak,” the magistrate urged, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

In addition to the cleanup order, a fine of $1,000 was imposed on the property owner for their non-compliance. The magistrate scheduled a follow-up hearing for September 10 to review the progress made and ensure that the necessary steps had been taken to address the violations.

As the meeting progressed, discussions also touched on another property at 9407 Indian Bluff Road, indicating a broader issue of code enforcement in the area. Inspector Scott Thorpe provided insights into the ongoing challenges faced by the county in maintaining property standards.

The hearing highlighted the county's commitment to enforcing code regulations and ensuring that properties are kept safe and clean for the community. With the next hearing just weeks away, residents and officials alike will be watching closely to see if the property owner can meet the new requirements and avoid further penalties.