Bay County Magistrate Orders Cleanup of Violated Property at Fourth Street

A Bay County property owner faces escalating fines after failing to comply with a magistrate's order to clean up junk and derelict vehicles from their property. During a recent Code Magistrate Hearing, it was revealed that the owner had been given ten days to remove unscreened personal property and a derelict vehicle or face an initial fine of $200, plus a daily fine of $20 for up to 20 days.

Despite some attempts to address the violations, including burning some debris, inspections showed that the property remained cluttered with junk and at least one derelict vehicle. The magistrate noted that the owner had not made sufficient progress, stating, "The property remained in violation as of August 11."

The hearing highlighted ongoing issues with compliance, as the owner was absent from the meeting, raising concerns about their commitment to rectify the situation. The magistrate ultimately imposed the initial fine and authorized county staff to enter the property to abate the violations, with costs and fines potentially becoming a lien against the property.

This case underscores the county's efforts to enforce property standards and maintain community aesthetics, as officials continue to monitor compliance in the area. The next steps will involve the county's action to clean up the property and the potential financial repercussions for the owner if violations are not resolved promptly.