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Code enforcement board continues Temple Terrace property case against prior owner to Feb. 12
Summary
The Municipal Code Enforcement Board on Jan. 8 continued Case No. 24-3721, City of Temple Terrace v. Dolores K. Owens, involving the vacant property at 8510 Reynold Boulevard, to the Feb. 12, 2025 meeting so the city can name and serve the correct respondent.
The Municipal Code Enforcement Board on Jan. 8 continued Case No. 24-3721, City of Temple Terrace v. Dolores K. Owens, involving the vacant property at 8510 Reynold Boulevard, to the Feb. 12, 2025 meeting so the city can name and serve the correct respondent.
City code compliance officer Laurie Smith told the board the case began with a proactive inspection Aug. 2, 2024, and an August 30 reinspection that documented overgrown vegetation, low-hanging branches and “front and south side exterior walls in physical decay” and peeling fascia. Smith said she posted notices and submitted photographic exhibits and that “the site is not in compliance and I am seeking a ruling.”
Roberta Cohn, who identified herself as local counsel for Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC, said a certificate of title had been issued back to her client in late September 2024 and that the bank only recently acquired full title. Cohn asked the board to avoid imposing fines on the bank while it arranges repairs and asked for additional time to obtain permits if needed. “We would ask that no fines be entered against the bank because they weren't entitled to the property,” Cohn said.
Board members discussed the title timing and service. A board member noted the department could dismiss the current case and refile against the proper owner; staff indicated the docket shows the corrected title recorded Sept. 30, 2024. The board voted to continue the matter to the Feb. 12, 2025 meeting so the city can confirm the proper respondent and obtain contact information for Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC.
No fine or final enforcement decision was entered at the Jan. 8 hearing; the board instructed staff to pursue service on the current owner if violations persist and to reopen or refile the case as appropriate.
Speakers at the hearing included Laurie Smith, code compliance officer, and Roberta Cohn, counsel for Reverse Mortgage Funding LLC. The board's vice chair and other board members participated in the procedural discussion and voted to continue the case.
