DeFuniak Springs Special Magistrate Cracks Down on Property Violations
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Meeting Date:
03/21/2024
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Recording Published:
03/21/2024
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Duration:
44 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Walton County
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Towns:
Defuniak Springs
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent meeting of the DeFuniak Springs Special Magistrate, issues of property violations took center stage as several property owners faced fines and corrective action mandates for non-compliance with city ordinances. Among the most significant outcomes was the estate of Eugene and Leslie B. Howell, slapped with a hefty fine of $2,550 and an ongoing $50 per day penalty until compliance is reached. Sharon A. Henson’s property was also subject to a substantial fine of $8,550, with an additional $25 accruing daily until the property meets city standards.
The meeting began with the observation that numerous properties within the city’s jurisdiction were not adhering to established codes. The Special Magistrate addressed several cases, each varying in severity and resolution. While some property owners faced the consequences of non-compliance, others were recognized for their efforts to rectify issues promptly.
The estate of Eugene and Leslie B. Howell became a focal point of the meeting due to the significant fines imposed. The property, which had previously been identified as non-compliant, had not undergone the necessary changes to meet the city code, resulting in the initial fine and the daily penalty. The meeting did not reveal specific details regarding the nature of the violations, but the financial penalties underscored the seriousness with which the city is approaching code enforcement.
Another case that garnered attention was Sharon A. Henson’s property. Like the Howell estate, Henson’s property was found to be in a state of non-compliance. The fine levied against this property was even more substantial than that of the Howell estate. Once again, the daily fine serves as a continuing incentive for the property owner to address the issues in a timely manner.
In contrast to these cases, some property owners demonstrated proactive measures to avoid fines. The case involving a property owned by Mr. Thomas was highlighted as a positive example, with the owner having completed the necessary corrective actions before the imposed deadline, thus avoiding any fines.
Other cases presented at the meeting included properties on West Orange Avenue and Bruce Avenue. The owner of the West Orange Avenue property, Ferman R Hernandez, was found responsible for maintaining the property in accordance with city ordinances. Although violations were noted, no immediate fines were imposed. On Bruce Avenue, property owners Harold Senor and Gwy Parker were given a 120-day period to bring their property into compliance or face potential fines.
A unique situation arose concerning a property owned by Biger Holdings, which requested arbitration due to a death in the family. The details surrounding this case were not extensively discussed, but it was indicative of the Special Magistrate’s willingness to consider extenuating circumstances in its deliberations.
The meeting also touched upon general maintenance and the handling of accumulated property, though specifics were not disclosed in the summary provided.
The meeting concluded without any public comments or debate on the cases. The adjudication of the properties in question was conducted without significant dispute, and the meeting adjourned following the resolution of the agenda items.
Bob Campbell
Special Magistrate Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Meeting Date:
03/21/2024
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Recording Published:
03/21/2024
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Duration:
44 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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