A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the case involving Saul D. Spade and LM Construction and Roofing LLC, following a complaint by Melissa Sheay. She claimed that Spade’s company engaged in unpermitted work and abandoned a renovation project after a stop work order was issued. The board scrutinized the allegations of fraud, deceit, and negligence, supported by evidence that Spade continued to receive payments amounting to $125,000 without securing the necessary permits. An investigator outlined the timeline, highlighting the issuance of a stop work order in April 2025, after which Sheay unknowingly continued to make payments. The board, concerned about the implications for public safety, accepted the evidence and discussed the seriousness of the allegations.

The discussion further delved into the intricate relationships between Sheay, Spade, and Logan Martin, under whose license the work was allegedly performed. Although the board could not revoke state licenses, the evidence suggested a pattern of unlicensed contracting and mismanagement. This prompted the board to consider the implications of verbal versus written agreements in construction law. The testimony revealed that Sheay had no formal contract with Martin, only informal scopes of work. The board examined whether Martin had the authority to pull permits under Spade’s license, as well as the legality of the business dealings between the parties involved.

In a related matter, the board examined the operations of Tucker Properties, Inc., a Delaware entity associated with Martin and Sheay. The discussion revealed Sheay’s role as an authorized signer, though questions about the company’s current operational status arose. Allegations of misappropriation and mismanagement of funds by LM Construction, under Martin’s management, were highlighted. Martin testified about his role in acquiring and rehabilitating properties, admitting that work had been conducted without permits, which led to a stop work order. The board’s inquiry focused on the permitting issues, with Martin admitting to outstanding permits and the challenges posed by the business disputes surrounding multiple projects.

The board unanimously found probable cause for the allegations against Spade and Martin, emphasizing the need to ensure compliance with local regulations to maintain public safety and contractor accountability. Throughout the proceedings, the board maintained a focus on the permitting issues, recognizing their jurisdictional limitations.

Another case of note involved Brett Smith of Apex Plumbing LLC, who faced allegations from Frank Janichek concerning an undersized water heater installation and subsequent code violations. Janichek presented evidence of improper workmanship, including unconnected wiring and blocked access to maintenance ports. Smith responded, asserting the unit’s adequacy, but the board’s attention centered on the lack of a required permit. The contractor admitted to health-related delays in obtaining the permit but committed to rectifying the situation. The board decided to continue the hearing for 30 days to allow Smith to secure the necessary permit and address the code violations.

The board also addressed the case of David G. Rodomacher, whose license had been previously revoked in Santa Rosa County. Despite Rodomacher’s absence, the board considered the prior findings and voted to revoke his license in Escambia County, imposing a $5,000 fine.

In another disciplinary action, the board found James F. Howard of Howard Construction Inc. in violation of multiple code sections, including mismanagement and failure to supervise construction activities. The board imposed fines totaling $3,500 and established a staggered payment schedule, with the threat of license revocation for non-compliance. Additionally, the board approved a restitution payment of $4,303 to the complainant, prioritizing restitution over fine payments.