Loxahatchee Groves Magistrate Imposes Daily Fines for Property Violations
- Meeting Overview:
The Loxahatchee Groves Code Enforcement Special Magistrate hearing on April 15, 2026, addressed numerous code violations across the town, resulting in the approval of settlement agreements, the granting of continuances, and the imposition of daily fines on some properties. Among the significant outcomes was a $250 daily fine set on Aaya Hernandez’s property for violations including outdoor storage and property maintenance issues. The hearing, which started at 9:01 a.m., concluded by 9:48 a.m., was led by Magistrate Brandenburgg.
The case of Aaya Hernandez at 15347 Okatobee Boulevard was one of the most consequential discussed during the meeting. This property was cited for several violations, including outdoor storage, equipment screening, nuisance accumulation, and general property disrepair. Code Officer Deanna Thomas reported challenges in communicating with the property owner, as certified mail was returned unclaimed, and no representative was present at the hearing. The magistrate confirmed proper service despite these difficulties, based on the notice of violation being duly posted and mailed. Photographic evidence presented showed derelict vehicles and a school bus obscured by trees, contributing to the property’s state of disrepair. Consequently, the magistrate set a compliance deadline, alongside potential fines of $250 per day per violation, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues.
Another notable case was that of the Donald and Sheri Tetro Trust at 13538 Alkatobe Boulevard, which involved multiple violations such as outdoor storage, expired permits, prohibited uses, improper signage, unauthorized tree removal, and issues with business tax receipts. Code Officer John Suarez explained that a notice of violation and hearing had been posted and mailed on February 13, 2026. The property owner signed a stipulated agreement, which was duly recorded, and the magistrate confirmed proper service before approving the settlement.
In contrast, several cases resulted in agreed settlements or requested continuances. Walter Britain on Kazzy Road reached a settlement agreement regarding his code violation case, CE 26-34, which Magistrate Brandenburgg approved after verifying the necessary documentation, including an affidavit of service, photographs, and certified mail receipts. Similarly, Moses Landscaping Inc. on San Diego Drive was involved in a similar process, resulting in an approved agreed order following proper service verification.
The hearing also featured case CE 26-54 regarding Ivon Carbalo at 15339 Okachobee Boulevard. Code Officer Deanna Thomas mentioned that the property owner was amenable to a stipulated agreement, and the magistrate approved the settlement following the confirmation of document receipt and proper service.
Continuances were granted in cases like CE 26-5214 involving Gale Hankla at 14523 Okachobee Boulevard and two cases involving Dustin and Jamie Erdle, CE 26-49 and CE 26-56, due to various reasons including ongoing compliance efforts and the property owner being out of the country. The magistrate accepted these requests, with all involved parties showing willingness to resolve their respective issues.
Another case, CE 26-55, involving F Road Holdings LLC on F Road, was tied to another property and received a continuance, as the owner was reportedly working toward compliance. Similarly, case CE 26-45, associated with a PCN number instead of a specific address, also received a continuance request, which the magistrate granted after confirming communication with the property manager.
Throughout the hearing, the magistrate emphasized the significance of compliance and maintained efficient progress through the agenda. The hearings were characterized by cooperative discussions between code officers and property owners, with all cases receiving due consideration and appropriate outcomes based on the evidence and agreements presented.
Laura Danowski
Special Magistrate Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/15/2026
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Recording Published:
04/15/2026
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Duration:
47 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Palm Beach County
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Towns:
Loxahatchee Groves
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