Palatka Faces Property Compliance Challenges
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Meeting Date:
02/20/2024
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Recording Published:
02/20/2024
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Duration:
73 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Putnam County
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Towns:
Palatka
- Meeting Overview:
The Palatka Special Magistrate meeting brought to light several cases of property non-compliance, with one notable issue being the property on EMT Street owned by Daniel R. Gorto. The city is seeking to impose a lien due to accumulated fines amounting to $23,375 for various violations, including deteriorating buildings and overgrown grass, despite Gorto’s claim of ongoing improvements. This situation underscores the city’s struggle with property owners over code violations and the communication breakdown that can exacerbate such issues.
During the meeting, presiding officer Ron Brown, an attorney licensed in Florida, emphasized the informal nature of the proceedings, which are designed to ensure due process and fairness. The discussion of 512 EMT Street’s condition revealed no observable external improvements since the last hearing, with the property’s state reportedly worsening. Gorto, along with Dennis Burn, a neighbor assisting with the property, was present and acknowledged the lack of communication with the city. Notably, Gorto produced a 90-day permit extension from the county, which city staff was not aware of, highlighting the communication gap. Brown expressed frustration over the significant fines and the looming lien.
The case of 418 River Street, owned by Warren Willhite, was also addressed. The Special Magistrate, who shared a history with Willhite, focused on deteriorating paint on the property, a violation visible from the street. The Willhites acknowledged the need for repainting but cited delays due to repairs and the need for approval from the historic district. A 90-day timeline was proposed for the removal of deteriorating paint and repainting, with the Special Magistrate probing the feasibility of meeting this deadline.
Another case involved Dawn Rolls and Earl Richard Earl Burke’s property on EMT Street, with violations concerning rot in wood and mold and mildew observable from the street. Evidence was presented, and a dialogue ensued regarding the city’s requirements for the property. Ms. Rolls detailed the extensive efforts to repair the property, including coordination with a contractor and a painter. She requested an additional 30 to 60 days to complete the work, but ultimately a 90-day compliance date was set, with no fines accruing until after May 21st, provided communication with the city was maintained.
Robbi Correa
Special Magistrate Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Meeting Date:
02/20/2024
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Recording Published:
02/20/2024
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Duration:
73 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Putnam County
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Towns:
Palatka
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