St. Pete Beach enforces permits on Jennifer Franco's unpermitted renovations

During the Special Magistrate Code Enforcement meeting held on July 14, 2025, in St. Pete Beach, significant discussions centered around property compliance issues and the permitting process for local developments. The meeting featured representatives from the Brightwater Beach Condo Association, including property manager Scott Vigneti and board member Brandon Kaye, who provided updates on their ongoing efforts to secure after-the-fact permits for a dumpster enclosure and a fence.

Vigneti reported that they are currently awaiting an amended site survey, which is necessary for their permit application. He indicated that the process could take anywhere from three to four weeks, with a minimum expectation of 60 days to secure the necessary permits. The Special Magistrate emphasized the importance of halting any further unpermitted work until the permits are obtained, setting a compliance deadline of 60 days from the meeting date.

In a separate case, the city addressed violations concerning Jennifer Franco's property at 49080 Second Avenue. Code enforcement officer Louis Cruz detailed the history of the case, noting that the property had undergone unpermitted renovations following a hurricane, including drywall installation and the replacement of an exterior door. Cruz recommended a daily fine of $250 for non-compliance, starting from April 17, 2025, along with administrative costs and potential lien fees.

The absence of Franco or her representatives at the meeting raised concerns about communication, as Cruz noted that she resides in Nevada. The magistrate's ruling on this case will be crucial in determining the next steps for compliance and potential penalties.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enforcing building codes and ensuring that property owners adhere to regulations, which is vital for maintaining community standards and safety. The next hearing for the Brightwater Beach Condo Association is scheduled for October 13, 2025, should compliance not be achieved by the deadline.