DeFuniak Springs Special Magistrate Addresses Property Code Violations: Safety Concerns and Compliance Challenges
- Meeting Overview:
At the recent DeFuniak Springs Special Magistrate meeting, multiple property code violations were discussed, highlighting ongoing challenges with compliance and safety within the city. The meeting covered several cases, with property owners being ordered to remedy violations or face daily fines.
The most notable case involved property owner Matthew V. Hardy, whose property on North Fifth Street was found to be in violation of city code chapter 14, section 14-3, which concerns conditions that pose a nuisance and a threat to public health and safety. Inspections revealed deteriorating conditions, including a refrigerator being improperly stored in the yard—a violation that posed a serious hazard, especially to children. The magistrate ordered Hardy to correct the violations within 90 days, with a daily fine of $50 imposed for any non-compliance. Furthermore, the refrigerator needed to be removed or secured within 72 hours, emphasizing the urgency due to its potential danger. Hardy was previously cited for minor improvements that were insufficient, and the magistrate stressed the importance of full compliance.
Another notable case involved the estate of Brenda Ray on Baldwin Avenue. The estate was initially cited for violations related to water damage under chapter 14, section 14-2. However, upon further inspection, it was determined that the water damage originated from an adjacent property, not from the Ray estate. As a result, the magistrate ruled that the estate was in full compliance, and no fines were issued. This case highlighted the complexities involved in code enforcement, particularly when external factors contribute to perceived violations.
The meeting also addressed the case of Jimmy Thomas Carroll, whose property on West Lost Avenue was found in violation of city codes due to overgrown grass and weeds. Despite multiple notices, Carroll failed to achieve compliance, resulting in the magistrate’s order to rectify the violations within 30 days, with a penalty of $50 per day for continued non-compliance. The case exemplified the ongoing struggle to enforce property maintenance standards, as Carroll did not attend the hearing to contest the findings.
Additionally, the case of Benny Matthews and Shirley M. Green on North 11th Street was reviewed, where the property was previously found in violation due to disorderly conditions and overgrown vegetation. However, a final inspection confirmed the property was now in compliance, and no fines were imposed. The magistrate warned that future violations would result in penalties.
The case of Patricia and Fred Lee, whose property on Captain Street met compliance requirements by the stipulated deadline, was also discussed. Their timely action avoided any fines.
Throughout the proceedings, the special magistrate underscored the importance of maintaining properties according to city standards, emphasizing that violations not only affect individual property owners but also have broader implications for community health and safety. The meeting concluded with the magistrate’s decisions being framed within a structured approach to code enforcement.
Bob Campbell
Special Magistrate Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
09/18/2025
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Recording Published:
09/18/2025
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Duration:
51 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Walton County
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Towns:
Defuniak Springs
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