One notable topics was the case involving Anthony Martini and the Martini Family Trust on Pelican Court. The property was cited for multiple unpermitted works, including covered floor vents, a new tankless water heater, and modifications to the kitchen and bathroom below the floodplain. Code enforcement officer Mike Ralston presented photographic evidence, detailing the violations and the necessary compliance steps. Deputy Building Official Keith Meade confirmed the owner’s cooperation and estimated a two to three-week period for permit issuance, dependent on document submission.

Tony Martini, the property owner, acknowledged the unpermitted work and expressed his intent to comply with the city’s requirements. He confirmed that major work such as a new roof and window installations had permits, recognizing that some areas would need to be reopened for inspection, particularly the covered flood vents. The board proposed a timeline of 60 to 90 days for Martini to complete the necessary work and obtain final inspections. A motion was made to find Martini in violation and assess a fine of $75 per day starting from November 4 until compliance was achieved. The motion was unanimously approved, with the chairperson emphasizing the board’s role in ensuring adherence to city codes.

Another notable case involved Richard Rush on North Pointe Alexis Drive. Ralston reported unpermitted work conducted on the property, which is situated in a coastal flood zone requiring stricter regulations. Violations included unauthorized additions like a spa and pool shelf, and a ground-level bathroom installation. Meade highlighted the necessity of breakaway walls for structures below the base flood elevation, which had not been met. The property’s engineer, Anthony Mello, assured the board that construction documents were being prepared for permit submission, anticipating a 7 to 15-day process.

Mello estimated a four-month timeline for completion of the required work post-permit acquisition. The board deliberated on the extensive work needed and the importance of following proper procedures. A motion was made to find Rush in violation, with a fine of $75 per day starting December 10 until compliance. The motion passed, with updates to be provided throughout the process.

The board also addressed ongoing issues on Grand Boulevard, represented by Eddie Lara of Mantech Partners LLC. Initially, tenants were living in the property without power, which was rectified once they vacated. The violation centered around an unauthorized power pole, installed without a finalized permit. Lara explained that the pole was installed by Duke Energy under the impression of an emergency call, despite the lack of an approved permit. The board acknowledged the application but noted it remained in “plan check” status.

Lara pointed out that tenants had illegally connected power from the pole to the house, raising compliance questions. The board clarified that since the occupancy issue was resolved, no fine would be imposed. A motion was made stating the respondents were in violation but had since come into compliance.

Further discussion focused on another property owned by Mantech Partners LLC on Hope Street, where unpermitted work prompted a stop-work order. Ralston presented evidence of remodeling without permits. The representative claimed their work was non-structural and involved only minor updates. However, the board raised concerns about significant electrical and plumbing work lacking permits. The representative mentioned Celtic Renovation Services LLC as the contractor, but confusion over permit documentation persisted.

The board emphasized that new owners inherit existing compliance issues. A walkthrough was suggested to assess the property better, with the compliance date postponed until the next meeting. The board unanimously found a violation of the building code and planned to reconvene for further evaluation.