Saint Mary's Hospitality seeks extension for drainage plans amid permitting challenges

During the Special Magistrate Hearing held on June 12, 2025, in Fort Pierce, significant discussions centered around property compliance issues and the associated fines impacting local residents.

One of the key topics involved a request from property owners for an extension on a demolition permit due to delays in obtaining necessary drainage plans from an engineer. The owners expressed frustration with the online submission system, which hindered their ability to move forward. The magistrate recommended a 60-day stay on the accrual of fines to allow the owners time to either secure the necessary permits or proceed with demolition, which would resolve the existing violations.

Another case discussed involved St. Mary's Hospitality Group LLC, which faced fines due to expired permits related to ongoing construction. The general contractor, Vlad Bergescu, assured the magistrate that they were close to resolving the issues and expected to update the necessary insurance documentation soon. The magistrate agreed to a 30-day stay on fines to facilitate the completion of the permit process.

The hearing also addressed a case involving Jacqueline Peters, who faced fines for a jet ski lift installation that had not complied with permit requirements. Peters detailed her struggles, including personal hardships and delays caused by material shortages and contractor issues. Despite her circumstances, the magistrate explained that the rules limited the reduction of fines to administrative costs, which were set at $1,513.45. Peters expressed her confusion over the compliance status, believing she had met all requirements based on previous inspections.

These discussions highlight the ongoing challenges residents face in navigating the permitting process and the impact of regulatory compliance on their properties. The magistrate's recommendations aim to provide relief while ensuring that property owners adhere to local codes, ultimately fostering a more compliant and safe community.