Punta Gorda code board issues compliance orders, fines and one continuance

The Punta Gorda Code Enforcement Board on Dec. 19 found several properties in violation of city code, ordered owners to correct violations within set deadlines and imposed fines or case costs where compliance was not achieved.

Board members established prima facie cases for a series of addresses after code officers presented inspection histories and documentation. For an East Henry Street matter involving a parked dual-axle trailer the board ordered the respondent to bring the property into compliance within 90 days and to pay $38.26 in case costs. Code supervisor Nick Faulkner explained the city’s view that ‘‘if multiple axle trailer is there overnight, the violation exists,’’ and zoning official Rachel Berry told the board that ‘‘in residential districts, home occupations are permitted, but it doesn't necessarily mean that you can have a contractor office.’’

Several penalty hearings followed. In one longtime noncompliance matter the board voted to impose a $17,850 fine, calculated at $50 per day for 357 days of noncompliance, plus case costs of $94.53;…