One of the meeting’s most significant items was the request for foreclosure authorization concerning three code cases with alleged violations. Attorney Daniel Rose, representing the alleged violator Mr. Dewarte, requested a 30-day continuance to facilitate resolution efforts. The town staff did not oppose this request, and the Special Magistrate granted the continuance, setting a new hearing date for February 2, 2026. The magistrate confirmed that service for the hearing had been successfully completed, as evidenced by the respondents’ presence. This decision marked an important moment in the meeting, highlighting the balance between strict code enforcement and providing property owners with opportunities to rectify issues.

The proceedings then pivoted to a status fine assessment hearing for Peter and Melissa Martz, concerning property maintenance violations at 14817 Snail Trail. Code enforcement officer John Suarez reported ongoing issues with swales and culverts, along with drainage containment and coverage requirements. The property owner, Peter Martz, requested a 30-day continuance to complete necessary repairs, having already obtained a quote and expressed readiness to pay for the work. In response, the Special Magistrate set January 30 as the compliance date, retaining a fine of $250 per day for continued violations. This decision illustrated the town’s structured approach to encouraging compliance while penalizing ongoing non-compliance.

Another notable case involved the Safar Irrevocable Trust on San Diego Drive. The property faced violations for illegal conversion and unpermitted work. Property manager Shahab Shok explained that efforts were being made to comply, with a permit application submitted on January 2, 2026. However, the town maintained that the conversion remained, as the permit awaited approval. Despite this, the magistrate underscored the importance of compliance and communication between violators and the town, emphasizing collaborative efforts to resolve issues.

A point of contention emerged regarding a contractor’s submission of a permit application, which was scrutinized due to initial submission to the incorrect jurisdiction. The contractor, having been on vacation in Finland during Thanksgiving, faced challenges in maintaining communication with the property owner. While the town did not object to the resubmitted permit, it highlighted the contractor’s recurring mistakes as an area for improvement. The magistrate encouraged the owner to document events and present them at a future fine mitigation hearing to potentially reduce fines based on circumstances beyond their control.

Additionally, the meeting addressed code compliance issues on C Road. The property, owned by the Valenuela family, was cited for needing a business tax receipt, unpermitted work, and prohibited use of the property. The magistrate granted the property owner a period to apply for necessary permits and address violations, with a follow-up hearing scheduled to assess potential fines. Neighbor Jane Cleveland expressed concerns about industrial activity affecting her horse training business, emphasizing the impact of non-compliance on adjacent properties.

Fines were imposed on non-compliant properties, with the town representatives clarifying that fines would commence immediately upon non-compliance. This approach aimed to deter future violations and encourage adherence to town regulations.

The session concluded with discussions on the authorization to foreclose on liens related to various properties. Respondents’ counsel stipulated to service for the hearing and requested a continuance to address outstanding fines and explore mitigation possibilities. The magistrate agreed, resetting foreclosure authorization hearings to February 2, 2026.