Port St. Lucie special magistrate sets compliance deadlines, orders fines in building-code hearing

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Special Magistrate Kelly Rodriguez presided over a Nov. 19, 2025, building-code hearing in Port St. Lucie that reviewed multiple cases of alleged unpermitted commercial and residential work and set compliance deadlines or fines in numerous matters.

The hearing opened at 9:10 a.m. and began with staff reading late abatements and postponements on the agenda. Investigators then introduced individual cases alleging commercial alterations, added walls, electrical and plumbing work, garage conversions and accessory structures performed without required building permits. Investigators repeatedly recommended either limited extensions to obtain permits or certification and imposition of daily fines where compliance had not been achieved.

In Case 32245 (Cameo Corner LLC, 481 Southwest Port Saint Lucie Boulevard), the investigator described interior separations into three tenant spaces without permits and requested an order requiring compliance. Ashley Ledlow, the property manager, said the owner purchased the building in 2022, has engaged an architect and "realistically, at least 90 days" will be needed to assemble required plans and secure permits. The city did not object to 90 days, and Rodriguez granted a 90-day compliance period to obtain building-permit approval and complete required work; staff advised the respondent of the compliance date and the…