Pensacola special magistrate orders fines, hears multiple property violation cases; several properties found in compliance

Special Magistrate Matthew Hargraves of the City of Pensacola Code Enforcement Authority ordered daily fines to begin in multiple property cases at a June 3, 2025 hearing and granted compliance findings or continuances in others.

The hearing addressed notices of noncompliance and requests to find code violations under Florida Statute chapter 162 and the International Property Maintenance Code. Hargraves reviewed each file, heard testimony from city code officers and, in one case, from the property owner, then issued rulings that ranged from finding properties compliant to ordering fines to begin if violations are not corrected by specified dates.

Hargraves opened by explaining procedure and swore in witnesses. City of Pensacola code enforcement officers presented photographic and mailing evidence for each case and recommended findings consistent with prior orders or new notices. Officer Kevin Smith and Officer Ron Bowden, among other city staff, testified about inspections, certified-mail returns and current conditions.

In the most contested case, concerning 4231 Langley Avenue (case CE251201), property owner Gary Hendricks testified he had made…