Magistrate approves reductions of two code-enforcement liens under $50,000

The St. Cloud special magistrate approved staff-recommended reductions in two separate code-enforcement lien cases that were presented as unfinished business under the category "reductions under $50,000."

For case number 2023-1818 (Felipe Jose Rios), city staff reported that the matter was first heard by the magistrate in February 2024 for work done without a permit, with an original compliance date of March 1. Staff said fines had accrued to roughly $20,000 and that compliance was met on May 21 of the prior year; the city manager and respondent agreed to reduce the lien to a total amount of $2,230.70 payable within 30 days. The magistrate approved the staff recommendation.

For case number 2024-1095 (Henry Romero), staff said the case originated in October 2024 when the respondent was found to be operating a landlord business without a business tax receipt; staff stated fines had accrued to $18,470.39 with associated costs. The city manager and the respondent proposed reducing the total to $2,090.39, payable within 30 days; the magistrate approved that reduction as presented.

The magistrate's approvals were recorded on the hearing record; as with other magistrate recommendations, final collection and any lien adjustments follow administrative procedures and, where required, City Commission action. Staff advised payment timelines and the magistrate approved the reductions as requested.