The session opened with a procedural outline by Special Magistrate Bart Valdez, who confirmed the postponement of the special exception case SE 2025-01 for the Barefoot Beach Club. This delay was due to motions filed by a resident and possibly the applicant, resulting in the rescheduling of the hearing to May 27. Following this decision, the focus shifted to variance requests, starting with V 2025-03 for a property at 422 137th Avenue Circle. The city presented its case through Andrew Morris, the long-range planner, who detailed the applicant’s request to reduce various setbacks due to significant damage from Hurricane Helen and the need to comply with updated FEMA and building code standards. Morris emphasized the property’s substandard, irregular lot size and the necessity of the variance to meet modern flood mitigation requirements.

Morris highlighted the property’s non-conforming status, with existing setbacks less than one foot from the property line. The proposal aimed to align the new construction with neighborhood norms without granting special privileges, a consideration in a district filled with similar non-conforming structures.

As the meeting progressed, another variance request, V 2025-04, was addressed for a property on North Behore Drive. City planner Joseph Petralia presented evidence of the home’s non-conforming status, originally built in 1949, and the need for modifications to meet elevation requirements due to past hurricane damage. Petralia outlined the property’s irregular lot shape and substandard size, similar to many in the area. Both variance requests were met with no public opposition and were supported by city staff, who recommended approval based on alignment with city development regulations and community support.

The meeting also tackled several code enforcement cases, notably involving 129th Avenue East, owned by JPV Hotel Property LLC. Compliance issues were outlined, focusing on the failure to meet conditions from a special exception order related to parking, landscaping, and drainage. Despite repeated notices and reminders, the property remained non-compliant. The city emphasized the enforcement of local regulations, proposing a 30-day compliance window before imposing a $250 daily fine. The property owner argued ongoing efforts to meet the requirements, citing plans for a hotel development with structured parking, which could bring the property into compliance.

Another case involved a property at 13715 Gulf Boulevard, where violations related to property maintenance and structural integrity were discussed. The building was deemed unfit for habitation, with requirements for either obtaining repair permits or proceeding with demolition. The property owner, John Vulpi, expressed intentions to comply, hindered by insurance litigation and logistical challenges. Vulpi requested an extension to facilitate demolition, which the magistrate granted, extending the compliance deadline to 30 days.

Finally, the meeting addressed a property on East Madira Avenue, damaged by a fire during Hurricane Milton. The owner, Randall Keys, detailed efforts to obtain permits and the challenges faced, such as the property’s trust status and contractor issues. Despite these obstacles, Keys expressed a commitment to restoring the property and working with city staff to resolve the compliance issues.