Homestead City Council Enforces Stringent Penalties on Repeat Code Violators
- Meeting Overview:
At the April 10, 2025, Homestead City Council meeting, a rigorous enforcement of city codes was the focal point, as multiple property owners faced penalties for non-compliance on various violations, including unauthorized constructions and improper waste disposal. The council emphasized the need for adherence to local ordinances by imposing fines and setting strict deadlines for compliance.
13:03The meeting’s most discussion revolved around repeat violators who consistently failed to comply with city codes, particularly in the case of mobile vendor Lucia Tereso. Tereso, operating on Northwest 8th Street, was issued a third citation on March 12, 2025, for violating the mobile vendor ordinance. Code Officer Johnson reported an incident on March 11, where Tereso was seen exchanging food for money from a white Hyundai Elantra. This violation, captured in photographs, prompted the special master to impose a maximum penalty of $5,000, highlighting a pattern of repeat offenses despite previous fines being paid.
55:14In another prominent case, Franklin Lioness Cortez faced a citation for erecting a fence without a permit on Southwest 121st Avenue. Code Officer Valencia reported that a violation notice sent on January 21 went unclaimed. Cortez, appearing nervous, confirmed a permit application was submitted on April 8, leading the special master to waive additional administration fees and grant a 30-day compliance period.
01:00:06The council also addressed concerns about improper trash disposal, notably involving Esparansa Sanchez on Northwest Third Avenue. Sanchez was cited for improper bulk trash disposal on March 7, 2025. She explained that debris had already been removed, and a misinterpretation of a shed led to the citation. Despite confusion about the violation’s specifics, Sanchez was fined $500, with the administration fee waived and 30 days to comply.
36:15Another highlighted case concerned a property managed by E2 Real Estate Investments LLC, cited for maintaining a fence without a permit. Jim Cooler, representing the property, claimed the neighbors erected the fences, leading to confusion. The special master reminded Cooler of the property owner’s responsibility for compliance, imposing an $80 administration fee and a 60-day compliance extension, although a potential $100 fine was discussed but not enforced.
43:32The meeting also delved into ongoing issues with properties failing to secure necessary permits for construction and renovations. For instance, Sera Holdings Forth Inc. was cited for installing exterior doors and plumbing without permits. Kevin King, speaking on behalf of the property, was advised to obtain a power of attorney to represent the owner. Misunderstandings about permits were clarified, and a 45-day extension for compliance was granted, with warnings of accruing daily fines for continued violations.
Additionally, the council focused on safety concerns related to unsecured properties near schools. A vacant building cited for debris and garbage posed potential hazards, prompting the special master to recommend urgent compliance measures. An initial 90-day compliance suggestion was amended to 30 days due to safety considerations, with a $75 daily fine for non-compliance, emphasizing the need for prompt action to mitigate risks to children in the area.
02:01:11The council consistently reinforced the importance of property owners understanding their responsibilities and the processes involved in obtaining permits.
Steven D. Losner
City Council Officials:
Sean L. Fletcher, Erica G. Ávila, Jenifer N. Bailey, Clemente Canabal, Tom Davis, Larry Roth
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/10/2025
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Recording Published:
04/10/2025
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Duration:
158 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Miami-Dade County
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Towns:
Homestead
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