Tarpon Springs Board Targets Neglected Properties with Hefty Daily Fines
- Meeting Overview:
The Tarpon Springs Code Enforcement Board convened to address several pressing code violations, levying significant daily fines to ensure compliance. The board tackled issues ranging from neglected properties with overgrown grass and dilapidated fences to hazardous conditions involving unsanitary pools and cluttered homes lacking basic utilities.
Code enforcement officer Mike Ross reported that although the grass had been cut just before the hearing, the property’s maintenance had been a recurring problem. The board determined that the trustee, Anthony Marcello, was in violation of city code. They imposed a fine of $50 per day starting September 9, 2025, until the issues were resolved. This decision included a directive for Marcello to contact the Code Enforcement Division for a property inspection.
In another notable case, the board addressed a property on Burnt Oak Street, where a dead tree in the right of way posed a safety risk. Additionally, the pool on the property was found to be in an unsanitary state, with non-functional equipment exacerbating the problem. Despite the tenant’s awareness and communication with the owner, Harry and Anna Patsalides, no corrective actions had been taken. The board unanimously voted to impose a $75 daily fine starting September 9, 2025, until compliance was achieved. This decision highlights the board’s stance in addressing potential hazards and maintaining neighborhood integrity.
The meeting also brought to light a dire situation on East Morgan Street, where a woman was reportedly using park facilities for bathing due to a lack of running water in her home. Officer Rollison described a troubling scene of multiple individuals residing in a cluttered house without basic utilities. This case, characterized by significant health and safety concerns, underscored the need for immediate intervention. Although no one represented the property at the meeting, Rollison prepared to submit evidence for the board’s consideration, emphasizing the urgency of addressing such conditions.
Further complicating the board’s agenda was a case involving the Taylor estate. Tony Taylor, a resident of the property, was living in a home embroiled in a probate process. The estate manager, Mr. Oliver, explained that the property was awaiting a judge’s ruling before it could be sold. Despite the legal complexities, Taylor appeared unaware of the situation, mistakenly believing he had reconnected the water supply. The board, recognizing the need for careful navigation of legal proceedings, imposed a $75 daily fine starting September 30, 2025, contingent upon the probate process’s conclusion and subsequent property sale. This decision illustrates the board’s sensitivity to the intricacies of legal proceedings while ensuring compliance with city codes.
In addition to addressing ongoing violations, the board reviewed cases where properties had achieved compliance with city codes. Notable among these was a property on Castle Works, which had been brought into compliance after city intervention. The board accepted an affidavit of compliance, halting accumulated daily fines. Similarly, a case involving Michael Kirkwood’s property saw the removal of unauthorized pavers, leading to board acceptance of compliance documentation.
The board also revisited a previous violation involving the Tarpon Plaza Real Realty Trust. The business had obtained a temporary use permit for a refrigeration trailer initially used for storage, complying with the board’s original order. However, discussions about setting a new compliance deadline led to a motion for a $50 daily fine starting September 3, 2025, until the refrigeration unit was removed.
As the meeting drew to a close, the board turned to administrative matters, including the approval of minutes from previous months and the election of new leadership. After some discussion, a new chair and vice chair were elected. The meeting concluded with the announcement of the next hearing scheduled for September 11.
Costa Vatikiotis
Code Enforcement Board Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Code Enforcement Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
08/14/2025
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Recording Published:
08/14/2025
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Duration:
39 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Florida
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County:
Pinellas County
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Towns:
Tarpon Springs
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