Medalist Homes LLC case continued after owner and tenant say cleanup began; hearing costs awarded

The magistrate accepted county evidence showing trash, abandoned trailers and high weeds at 835 Southeast Highland Avenue in Stuart and ordered the property owner, listed as Jeremy Lemaster/Medalist Homes LLC, to correct violations by Aug. 29, 2025.

Investigator Deborah Carrasco testified she observed trash, abandoned trailers and high weeds during inspections starting March 7 and that amended notices of violation were mailed. She photographed the property on July 15 and entered exhibits documenting the condition. Carrasco requested compliance by Aug. 29 and reimbursement of $575 in investigation costs.

Jeremy Lemaster (owner) and tenant Barry Rhodes appeared. Rhodes said he attempted to contact the county and that when he learned of the violation he organized a crew; Rachel (county staff) and Medalist representatives exchanged emails and, according to testimony, crews were mowing and cleaning the morning of the hearing. Rhodes and a Medalist representative provided photographs taken that morning showing ongoing cleanup.

Order and next steps The magistrate received county exhibits 1–15 and, based on the evidence and testimony, ordered compliance by Aug. 29, 2025; failure to comply will result in a $100-per-day fine per violation. The magistrate also awarded $575 in investigative costs to the county. The magistrate noted the county may issue a "do not repeat" order if the work is corrected, which could carry greater penalties for future violations.

Scheduling note At the request of county staff, the related matter involving Medalist Homes LLC was continued to Aug. 20 for further review.