Seminole Special Magistrate Tackles Non-Compliance and Safety Concerns
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Meeting Date:
07/11/2024
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Recording Published:
07/11/2024
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Duration:
128 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Seminole County
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Towns:
Altamonte Springs, Black Hammock, Casselberry, Chuluota, Fern Park, Forest City, Geneva, Goldenrod, Heathrow, Lake Mary, Longwood, Midway (Seminole County), Oviedo, Sanford, Wekiwa Springs, Winter Springs
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Seminole Special Magistrate hearing, the focus was on a series of property violations throughout the county, highlighting the ongoing issues of non-compliance with permitting requirements and the subsequent safety concerns. The hearing addressed various cases, with the most significant being the installation of unauthorized power alterations, the construction of structures without permits, and the imposition of fines and deadlines for compliance.
A particularly concerning case involved unauthorized power alterations, where a property’s meter had been changed to a 400 amp without proper inspection, prompting the magistrate to order an immediate inspection and the possibility of retroactive fines of $250 per day for non-compliance.
Another case that stood out involved a property owner who was disabled and on heavy narcotics for pain, expressing frustration with feeling criminalized due to posted notices. The magistrate imposed a fine of $50 per day until necessary permits were obtained.
The issue of non-compliance was also apparent in the case of 2441 CESM J5 Properties LLC and H Ranch Road, where a violation for complete interior renovation and changes of use without the required permits was addressed. With the respondents having been engaged only a month prior and in the process of obtaining the necessary permits, the magistrate extended the compliance date but still imposed a daily fine for continued violation.
Furthermore, the meeting delved into the situation of Mary Wilcox and Sophia Nim, both involved in non-compliance cases with significant fines recommended due to extended periods of violation. These cases, along with others discussed during the hearing, highlighted the recurring issue of property owners delaying permit acquisition or being unaware of the requirements, leading to hefty fines and administrative costs.
The hearing also included a discussion on a temporary power permit for a 60 amp light pole and outlet that was approved, contrasting with the concerns over the unsafe alteration to a 400 amp meter. Additionally, there was a case involving the installation of a retaining wall without the required permits, which had been installed within a conservation easement, prompting discussions about approval from the homeowners association and extended compliance dates.
Cases involving construction without permits were recurrent throughout the meeting, with property owners requesting extensions and expressing various challenges, including financial constraints and personal health issues that impeded their ability to comply with the county’s codes.
The hearing concluded with the magistrate granting extensions for compliance in some cases and imposing fines for continued violations, as well as scheduling follow-up hearings to ensure progress towards compliance. The next magistrate hearing was set for August 8th, 2024, where the outcomes of these cases and the adherence to the imposed deadlines would likely be reviewed.
Special Magistrate Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Special Magistrate
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Meeting Date:
07/11/2024
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Recording Published:
07/11/2024
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Duration:
128 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Seminole County
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Towns:
Altamonte Springs, Black Hammock, Casselberry, Chuluota, Fern Park, Forest City, Geneva, Goldenrod, Heathrow, Lake Mary, Longwood, Midway (Seminole County), Oviedo, Sanford, Wekiwa Springs, Winter Springs
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