Fort Pierce special magistrate finds violations, grants permit deadlines and reduces some fines

Fort Pierce Special Magistrate Jamie Barrow on July 9 found multiple code violations across a series of property cases, ordered owners to obtain permits and inspections, granted several extensions and approved at least two fine reductions.

Barrow opened the hearing noting procedures and standards, saying, “My name is Jamie Barrow. I'll be serving as your special magistrate this morning.” The city presented complaints and photographic evidence through building department investigators and inspectors. Inspectors consistently recommended that property owners obtain the necessary permits and complete required inspections; the magistrate issued findings and compliance timelines in each case.

Why this matters: the magistrate's orders require owners to either secure permits to finish or to remediate unpermitted work, or to demolish noncompliant improvements. Failure to comply invites continuing daily fines and possible enforcement action. Several respondents were given time-limited opportunities to bring properties into compliance; some also had accrued fines reduced.

Most significant outcomes - 4651 S. U.S. Highway 1 (Case BV2025-00039): The city presented photographs and a complaint alleging a deteriorated roof, damaged structural members and missing window/glass frames. Inspector Miles Keller testified the case began from a complainant and moved photos into evidence. Owner Hector Gomez said the property front roof was already repaired and that a demolition permit had been approved for part of the building; Gomez agreed to have a contractor “revise the permit for the, the blocking of the windows.” The court found a violation exists and ordered the owner to obtain permits and required inspections within 90 days; continuing noncompliance is subject to a $100-per-day fine. The owner was informed of a 30-day appeal window.

- 2026 Jacaranda Drive (Case BV2025-00042): Building inspector Logan Winn said unpermitted renovations—including extensive interior mechanical, ductwork and framing work—had been performed and that a residential repair permit applied April 7 had been rejected during plan review. Owner Lawrence ("Larry") Winter told the magistrate he had resubmitted drawings and contracted a designer and expected approval within weeks. The magistrate found a violation and granted 60 days for a permit to be obtained, with the usual inspection schedule and a $100-per-day fine for failures to cure; a 30-day appeal period applies.

- 811 N. 201st Street (Case BV2024-00009): Owner Earl Gardner requested reduction of fines that had accrued to $2,240. City staff calculated administrative costs at $754.05 and recommended reducing fines to that amount. Gardner said eviction of a tenant delayed his ability to comply. The magistrate reduced the fines to the administrative cost of $754.05 and allowed 60 days for payment; if unpaid the full fines will be reinstated. Gardner retains a 30-day appeal right.

- 100 Corner Drive, Building E (Case 24-1365): The property (owned by an entity doing business as Sable Chase Essential Housing / TMO Acquisitions LLC) accrued fines totaling $5,250; staff calculated administrative costs of $1,125.90. The respondent (property manager identified in the hearing as Jesus/Keisha Smith) said the vendor contracted to do the work struggled to meet inspector requirements but ultimately obtained approvals. Staff recommended—and the magistrate agreed—to reduce the total fines to the respondent's requested amount of approximately $2,620. The magistrate set a 30-day payment deadline; the full balance would be reinstated if not paid.

- Other permit and compliance orders: The magistrate found violations and granted standard compliance windows in multiple additional matters, including 1206 N. 209th Street (SP Pine Creek Village LP) — a final 90‑day extension to file sealed drawings and pull a permit — and several residential/commercial addresses (e.g., 202A Avenue G; 1238 Avenue D; 1904 San Marcos Ave.; 5701 Orange Ave.) where owners were ordered to obtain permits within 60 days, submit to inspections at least every 180 days while a permit is open, and cure all violations or face $100-per-day fines. For the Orange Avenue property (storm damage), the inspector reported contact from the fire department and the removal of a damaged awning; the owner was directed to obtain demo and electrical permits.

Evidence and procedure City inspectors moved photographic exhibits into evidence during each matter. Inspectors identified how complaints were received—both by citizen complaint and referrals (for example, a fire-department call in the Orange Avenue matter). The magistrate repeatedly reminded respondents that permits for repair, demolition or renovation are required even where owners contend work was started or completed by third parties.

Quotes from the hearing - Inspector Miles Keller: “It was a complaint that came in.” - Owner Hector Gomez (4651 S. U.S. 1): “I'll have the contractor revise the permit for the, the blocking of the windows.” - Magistrate Jamie Barrow (explaining the orders): owners were given fixed periods to obtain permits, inspections and to cure violations or face daily fines and a 30-day appeal window.

What happens next Owners ordered to obtain permits must file with the Fort Pierce Building Department and schedule required inspections. Several respondents were given 30, 60, 90 or 180 days depending on the case; all cases carry a 30-day appeal right from the date of the magistrate's order. City staff indicated they will monitor compliance and that fines may be reinstated if respondents do not meet the deadlines.

The hearing record and photographic evidence were admitted into the magistrate file for each case.