The Special Magistrate Hearing held on May 8, 2025, in Fort Pierce focused on a case involving a property owner seeking to obtain necessary permits for construction work. The owner, represented by a family member, detailed the challenges faced in complying with permit requirements due to medical issues affecting their parents and difficulties in finding qualified professionals to assist with the permit process.

The family member explained that their father, who had undergone a laryngectomy, is unable to speak, and their mother has limited English proficiency. They have been actively working to submit the required engineering drawings and documentation but have encountered obstacles, including the need for additional electrical calculations and historical permit records dating back to before 1987.

During the hearing, the family member requested an extension to the original 60-day compliance timeline, citing the need to manage their parents' medical needs alongside the permit process. After considering their situation, staff recommended extending the compliance period to 120 days, allowing the family more time to address the necessary requirements.

The magistrate acknowledged the family's efforts to comply and granted the extension, stipulating that they must obtain the required permits and pass inspections within the new timeframe. Failure to comply could result in fines of $100 per day. The family now has 120 days to fulfill these obligations and can appeal the order within 30 days.

The hearing also included a brief mention of another case involving a property at 464 North Ninth Street, where the owner was not present at the beginning of the session. The magistrate swore in the owner for further proceedings.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the complexities of navigating local permit processes, especially for individuals facing personal challenges, and the government's willingness to accommodate such circumstances.