Cocoa Beach Magistrate Enforces Code Violations Amidst Safety Concerns and Compliance Deadlines
- Meeting Overview:
The recent meeting of the Cocoa Beach Special Magistrate on November 13 tackled several issues, primarily focusing on code violations involving property maintenance, safety hazards, and compliance deadlines. The magistrate issued orders across various cases, emphasizing the importance of adhering to city regulations and ensuring resident safety, particularly concerning unsafe staircases and parking lot issues.
A notable case pertained to a property owned by Aliyah Place LLC on South Atlantic Avenue, where concerns were raised about the structural integrity of staircases used by residents. The city highlighted several violations of the Florida building code, including deteriorating exterior structures like staircases, porches, and balconies. Photographic evidence presented during the meeting revealed exposed rebar and spalling concrete, raising alarms about potential safety hazards for residents. Despite some repairs being made, several steps were still deemed unsafe, with caution tape marking hazardous areas.
The urgency of the situation was underscored by the magistrate, who stressed the necessity for immediate compliance. The city requested daily fines of $250 for continued non-compliance and set a deadline of December 13 for addressing outstanding violations. The representatives from Aliyah Place LLC cited challenges with contractor availability and rainy conditions as factors delaying repairs. However, the magistrate insisted on the enforcement of city codes, emphasizing the need to secure unsafe structures to prevent resident use if repairs were not promptly completed.
Another discussion involved the Island Time Marina and Coconut Cove Yacht Club, located on West Cocoa Beach Causeway. The property faced violations for having an unpermitted parking lot and debris accumulation. Despite some debris removal, issues persisted with dilapidated watercraft and trailers on the property. The city recommended a compliance deadline of November 20, with a potential fine of $250 per day for non-compliance. The absence of a representative for the property owners during the hearing was noted, highlighting communication challenges with the respondents.
In a separate case involving Dwayne and Marie Pierce on Angelo Lane, the focus shifted to the use of a vacant lot for parking and temporary structures. The respondents argued that their actions were a neighborly gesture to accommodate a nearby construction project. Despite acknowledging the city’s concerns, they maintained the necessity of temporary storage on the lot. The magistrate and city officials navigated the complexities of property usage, weighing the implications of code enforcement against community needs.
The meeting also addressed procedural aspects of code enforcement, with the magistrate reiterating the impartial nature of the proceedings. Emphasizing adherence to evidence presented during hearings, the magistrate clarified that building permits could be revoked if erroneously issued. This principle was relevant to discussions on property classifications and compliance with current regulations.
Keith Capizzi
Special Magistrate Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
11/13/2025
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Recording Published:
11/13/2025
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Duration:
82 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Brevard County
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Towns:
Cocoa Beach
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