Board reduces liens to administrative costs for two property petitioners

The Municipal Code Enforcement Board approved reduced lien amounts to cover administrative costs for two petitioners and set short payment deadlines.

For Zonta of Palm Harbor LLC, represented by attorney Anthony Domenakis and petitioner Dennis Kappas, the board reduced the lien to administrative costs of $1,187.20 for a business tax receipt violation tied to 1808 Drew Street. Domenakis said the underlying issue arose because a previous tenant did not obtain a business tax license and that state records contained an address typographical error that kept notices from reaching his client. The board ordered the administrative cost amount payable within 30 days; if unpaid the lien reverts to its original amount.

For Oakmont Reserve Properties LLC, represented by David Covert, the board reduced the lien to administrative costs of $2,747.20 for lot-clearing and nuisance violations at 3010 Oakmont. Covert said the owner learned of the lien Aug. 14 when it interfered with a refinance, and that cleanup and repairs were completed by late October. The board set a 30-day payment deadline; if the reduced amount is not paid the lien will revert to the original amount.

Both motions passed on voice votes. City staff and the board discussed that prior compliance filings and inspections had occurred in each matter and warned petitioners that repeat violations could trigger elevated fines if new cases are opened in the future.