The meeting opened with the case against Elad Kovich, whose property was cited for multiple violations resulting in substantial fines. Anthony Neonakis, a code compliance officer, detailed the case, explaining that the property owner had been served a notice of intended foreclosure due to unpaid fines totaling over $1.39 million. The town attorney stressed the need for authorization to pursue foreclosure or a monetary judgment.

Katie Edwards Walpole, representing Kovich, was present remotely and confirmed receipt of various documents related to the case. However, there was a procedural concern about whether she had reviewed all relevant materials, particularly affidavits of service and other evidentiary documents. The magistrate proposed a recess to ensure Walpole had full access, but she confirmed the legal sufficiency of the service was acceptable for the hearing to proceed. This discussion emphasized the importance of document accessibility and procedural integrity in such significant legal matters.

The meeting also explored the nuances of the orders in question, which were certified by the town clerk but not the county, due to unpaid costs. The magistrate deliberated on the statutory requirements for foreclosure, confirming that the necessary certified copies of orders had been recorded for over 90 days. The town presented evidence that the liens remained unpaid, leading to a determination that statutory requirements for foreclosure authorization were met.

Another case of interest involved Matthew OA MB and his property at 13327 Marcela Boulevard, which was cited for having RVs without a site permit. Matthew explained that he had received permission to have two RVs during construction, and he was in the process of obtaining necessary permits. The magistrate, showing a preference for compliance over punishment, extended the compliance deadline by an additional 25 days beyond the town’s recommendation, providing Matthew a total of 70 days to comply.

The magistrate emphasized the need for clear communication between the town and property owners, particularly concerning notices of violation and hearing. Matthew was advised to maintain open communication with the town to prevent future complications. Additionally, the magistrate assessed administrative costs of $234.05 for the hearing and established a daily fine of $100 should compliance not be achieved within the extended deadline.

The meeting also addressed a case involving Roberto Perez and Maria Fonte on C Road, cited for “work without a permit.” The property owner’s representative requested a continuance to secure necessary permits, which the magistrate aligned with the next hearing date. The inspector confirmed the owner’s good faith efforts, stressing the importance of the town’s review process and adherence to compliance timelines.

Further discussion included case 23066, where the magistrate granted a continuance with a new compliance date set for April 1. The meeting noted that a fine of $250 per day would be imposed if violations persisted beyond this date. The magistrate also reviewed the case of D and D Fine Grading, which achieved compliance after obtaining the required permit, leading to the case being pulled from the agenda.

Lastly, the case of SQ Farms LLC involved a property cited for various violations, with the owner asserting compliance but awaiting re-inspection. The magistrate extended the compliance deadline, acknowledging the need for a final inspection before determining compliance status. Photographs illustrating improvements were submitted, and the magistrate maintained the prior fine structure.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on future hearing schedules, confirming that only Monday hearings would proceed, with the next meeting scheduled for March 3, 2025. The magistrate emphasized the necessity of clear communication regarding any scheduling changes to avoid future confusion.