05:17The meeting began with a noteworthy admission from the city regarding a procedural oversight in a lien reduction case for property owners at Emerald Eerart on Minute Man Causeway. The case, identified as 23-338, involved a respondent seeking a lien reduction. During the proceedings, it was revealed that there was no evidence that previous orders had been sent to the respondents. The special magistrate acknowledged the city’s rare admission of this mistake and decided to dismiss the case, commending the city for appropriately addressing the issue. This admission underscored the importance of accurate procedural follow-through in governmental processes.

07:54Another matter involved Twisted Tides, a business on East Cocoa Beach Causeway, represented by Joseph Holstein. Although Holstein was absent, the city presented a comprehensive packet of evidence highlighting multiple violations, including an incomplete business tax receipt application and utility-related issues. The city also noted the presence of an unauthorized flag sign outside the restaurant. The special magistrate ruled in favor of the city, ordering compliance with the notice of violation and the completion of the business tax receipt process. The case concluded with a structured fine for non-compliance set at $250 for the local business tax failure and escalating daily penalties if the respondent failed to meet the compliance deadline by June 13, 2025.

14:29The meeting further addressed case number 24-143 concerning Kathleen Berman, the owner of a property on Sunset Drive. Berman was present and initially uncertain about participating in the hearing. The city presented evidence of multiple violations, including expired building permits and unauthorized work such as electrical changes and window removals. A recent building permit application was filed by Berman on May 6, 2025, pending final approval. The city proposed a 30-day deadline for the permit to be issued and a six-month timeline for completion of the necessary work. The special magistrate and the city engaged in discussions about the implications of non-compliance and the requirements for corrective actions.

In a related discussion, Rene, a representative, clarified the details of Berman’s case, noting that the only missing component was the approval number for Florida-approved impact windows. Rene emphasized the importance of ensuring that the manufacturing company provides this requirement within the 30-day timeline to avoid further complications. The magistrate advised that a hearing would be necessary to determine fines if compliance was not achieved.

23:52The meeting also covered case number 24-176, involving FDK Inc. and its establishment, Jonathan’s Bar, on North Bard Avenue. This case centered around unauthorized awnings installed without the required building permits. Despite completing the Business Tax Receipt process, the necessary permits had not been secured. A 30-day compliance deadline was suggested, with discussions about potential fines if the respondent failed to meet the requirements.

27:01The final case, number 25-46, involved longstanding issues at Mary Goldamp’s property on South Atlantic Avenue. The property had a history of violations dating back to 2012, including structural problems, trash and debris accumulation, and a bee infestation. The city had previously addressed these issues, incurring liens that were satisfied, yet violations persisted. The property was marked with a “red tag” indicating unsafe conditions, with the last assessment occurring in April 2020. The special magistrate expressed grave concern over the property’s state and the danger posed by the ongoing bee infestation. An immediate compliance order was issued, with a $250 daily fine for non-compliance.