Sarasota code magistrate hears dozens of property cases; fines imposed, many matters continued

Sarasota City Code Compliance Special Magistrate Richard Ellis on Nov. 6 heard more than two dozen enforcement cases ranging from unpermitted interior work and accessory structures to overgrown lots and short-term rental advertising. The magistrate continued many matters to give property owners time to obtain permits or complete corrective work, and he imposed or reduced civil fines in several contested files.

Why this matters: The magistrate docket is the city’s routine enforcement mechanism for neighborhood blight, unsafe structures and unpermitted construction. Outcomes affect property owners’ bills (assessed fines and inspection costs), the city’s ability to clear hazards, and how quickly properties return to compliance or proceed toward demolition or sale.

Major outcomes and scheduling

Votes at a glance — selected cases and orders (case number, short ruling, monetary outcome, next hearing):

- City of Sarasota v. Don Dinh Thai (202501133): Magistrate Richard Ellis found the property in compliance as of the city’s 11/3 inspection, assessed a reduced civil fine of $500 and costs of $3.90, and vacated a prior larger order. The city had recommended the reduced fine. (City rep: Mr. Spence; respondent: Don Dinh Thai.)

- City of Sarasota v. FTF Lending LLC (foreclosure purchaser represented by Michael Plumba/Plumbo/Palumbo) (file listed in transcript): The property was reported…