Special magistrate confirms fines and issues compliance deadlines in Town of Pembroke Park hearings

A special magistrate hearing in the Town of Pembroke Park on Feb. 19, 2025, produced a series of final orders and deadlines after code compliance officers presented evidence that multiple properties remained in violation of local permitting and maintenance rules. Special Magistrate Harry Hippler confirmed fines, entered final orders and—where requested by the town—granted short extensions for some owners to come into compliance.

The hearing, conducted in quasi‑judicial form, focused on code violations including construction without building permits, installation of HVAC units and sheds without permits, business licensing failures and illegal dumping. Assistant Town Attorney Brian Sherman and town code officers presented the violations case‑by‑case. The magistrate repeatedly emphasized that violations continued to accrue until corrected and that property buyers are strictly liable for preexisting code violations.

Why it matters: these rulings formalize penalties and compliance schedules that can become liens on properties and lead to continuing daily fines if owners do not obtain required permits or correct violations. The orders give owners a set time to resolve issues or face automatic per‑day penalties and administrative fees.

What the magistrate ordered and why

• Case 9067 (2301 Southwest 301st Court / owner: Lidovina Flores): The town presented a hearing to confirm a fine totaling $8,900 for multiple outstanding violations. After discussion, the magistrate confirmed the fine but the town elected to allow a 90‑day extension to obtain permits and come into compliance. A $100 administrative fee was discussed to be paid within 30 days; the record also reflects a $100 per‑day continuing penalty if compliance is not achieved after the…