Fort Myers Beach Grapples with Code Violations: Fines Looming for Non-Compliant Properties
- Meeting Overview:
During the Fort Myers Beach Special Magistrate meeting, attention was focused on ongoing property violations, with fines set for properties failing to meet compliance deadlines. The magistrate addressed numerous cases.
One notable matter involved a property on Hibiscus Drive, where the owners, Gerald Robert L. III and Gerald Robin D., faced violations for overgrown grass and rubbish accumulation. Despite being given a 30-day period to address these issues, reinspections on October 29 and November 3, 2025, revealed no progress. The town, represented by a code enforcement officer, presented evidence including photographs and a notice of violation. The requested penalty included an administrative fee of $250 and a daily fine of $100 if the violations persisted. The magistrate ruled in favor of the town, granting the property owners a final two-week extension to achieve compliance before fines would commence.
Another notable case involved a property on H Highus Drive, where the owners, Trhatel Anna A and Lopez Mario A Pino, were cited for failing to secure the necessary permits for structural work. Although the rubbish issues were resolved, the permitting violations remained. The case was detailed with photographs and affidavits showing the ongoing non-compliance. The town requested an administrative fee but chose not to impose immediate daily fines, instead granting an additional 45 days for compliance. The magistrate scheduled a status hearing for January to reassess the situation, emphasizing the need for proper permits to bring the property into conformity with local regulations.
The meeting also addressed the case of Bryce Geise, whose property faced similar compliance challenges. Mr. Geise, well-versed in construction requirements, disputed the town’s characterization of his compliance status, citing detailed records and communications with building officials. He emphasized his intention to resolve the permitting issues and requested an expedited process to avoid further delays. The town and Mr. Geise agreed to consolidate permits, acknowledging the complexities introduced by previous storm damage and subsequent ordinance changes. The magistrate expressed a willingness to facilitate a collaborative resolution.
A property on Lagoon Road remained non-compliant due to pending permit issues. The town sought a daily fine of $150, alongside a $250 administrative fee, given the lack of communication from the property owner. The magistrate ordered that fines begin accruing from October 22, after the compliance deadline passed on October 21.
In similar cases, properties at 5850 EO Boulevard and Flamingo Street were also in violation, with no contact from their respective owners. The town requested daily fines of $250 and $100, respectively, to incentivize compliance. The magistrate approved these fines, emphasizing that they would continue until the properties met the required standards.
Dan Allers
Special Magistrate Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
11/04/2025
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Recording Published:
11/04/2025
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Duration:
66 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Lee County
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Towns:
Fort Myers Beach
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