The Punta Gorda Code Enforcement Board found the responsible parties for 7300 Powder Puff City within city limits and ordered a $25 fine and $20.88 in case costs after concluding there was an illicit discharge to the storm-drain system.

Officer Thomas Vetri (PGPD) and code supervisor Nick Faulkner testified that on Aug. 2, 2025 the officer responded to a report of a drip pan and observed a dark liquid on top of the storm grate; photographs and body-camera footage were entered into evidence. Faulkner said the city received an internal complaint and that certified notice of an irreversible/irreparable violation was mailed, with respondents receiving the notice in mid-August.

During questioning, the respondents, represented with a translator, said they had rinsed a drip pan used for a lawnmower and believed it to be mostly water and dirt; they apologized and said they were new to the neighborhood and did not know pouring the rinse water to a storm drain was prohibited. Officer Vetri and Faulkner testified they observed residue consistent with oil on the grate and that the drip pan the respondents showed officers matched the pan in the complainant’s photograph.

Zoning official Rachel Berry read the relevant municipal language prohibiting illicit discharges to the storm-drain system, explaining the code prohibits discharges containing oil or other materials that contribute to water-quality violations. The city submitted photos and body-cam video showing the interaction and the material on the grate.

Board members debated the amount of material discharged and the intent; members noted posted medallions on the drain that read “No Dumping — Drains to Waterway,” and some said the board’s purpose is compliance rather than punishment. The board found a prima facie case, then voted to impose a $25 fine to be paid within 30 days and ordered $20.88 in case costs. The board cautioned respondents that failure to comply could lead to larger fines under city code.

The board’s motion and penalty reflected evidence of some oil residue on the grate, the posted drain medallion, and the board’s desire to educate new residents. The respondents were advised how to obtain payment information and to consult the city clerk’s office if they had questions about the order.