The Town of Lake Clarke Shores is moving forward with a significant decision regarding a property at 7730 Westlake Drive, as discussed during the recent Code Enforcement Board hearing. The board has authorized the initiation of foreclosure proceedings on the property, which has been a point of contention due to its deteriorating condition and unresolved ownership issues.

The decision comes after the town council's previous meeting, where concerns about the property's state were raised. The property currently has a first mortgage of approximately $400,000, which complicates the foreclosure process. Board members expressed that while the town's liens amount to about $206,000, they are secondary to the mortgage, meaning that if the foreclosure proceeds, the town could potentially lose its claims against the property.

The property has been under scrutiny for failing to meet maintenance standards, with previous owners promising repairs that were never completed. The board discussed the possibility that the house might ultimately need to be demolished due to its poor condition. The ongoing legal complexities include a dispute over the ownership, as the previous owner, now in assisted living, signed a deed that her daughter contests, claiming her mother lacked the capacity to do so.

Additionally, there was mention of a criminal investigation related to the property, which has been turned over to the attorney general. Although probable cause was found, no charges have been filed at this time, leaving the door open for future legal action.

The board's decision to authorize foreclosure is seen as a necessary step to address the ongoing issues with the property and to protect the interests of the community. However, the potential financial implications for the town remain a concern, as the foreclosure could lead to additional costs without guaranteeing a resolution to the property’s problems.

As the situation develops, the town will need to navigate the complexities of the foreclosure process while considering the best outcomes for its residents and the community at large. The next steps will involve resolving the ownership dispute and determining how to proceed with the foreclosure in light of the existing mortgage.