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Planning board recommends magistrate option and volunteer support for Punta Gorda code enforcement
Summary
The board recommended City Council adopt code changes to allow a special magistrate for Chapter 9A code enforcement (ZA052025), while directing staff to pursue a trained volunteer program to assist proactive enforcement; public comment emphasized state-law constraints and staffing limits.
The Punta Gorda Planning & Zoning Board voted to recommend City Council approval of a proposed amendment to Chapter 9A that adds a special magistrate option for code-enforcement cases while preserving the existing code board.
Rachel Berry, the city’s zoning official, described the draft language as adding the magistrate as an option — not a replacement — so council could choose whether to use the code board, appoint a magistrate, or use both. Berry said routine administrative costs (postage, administrative fees) are already included in fines, and staff will consult the city attorney about whether magistrate or legal…
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