Code enforcement issues 104 warnings during ordinance education period; board debates clarity, landscaper responsibilities and parking enforcement
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Summary
Code Enforcement Officer Eric Richwagen reported 104 warnings issued during an education period for the town’s updated bulk-and-vegetative-waste ordinance; the board discussed resetting warnings Jan. 1, educating residents and landscapers, and how to handle repeat parking-on-grass violations.
The Town of Lake Clarke Shores Code Enforcement Officer reported the town issued 104 warnings during the initial education period for the updated bulk-and-vegetative-waste ordinance and described a largely positive shift in compliance over recent weeks.
"For the first two weeks, it was about 50/50," Code Enforcement Officer Eric Richwagen said. "So far, a 104 warnings have been issued... going forward past January 1, everyone starts off on a clean slate." He said the town is emphasizing education through December and that fines will be assessed only after the education period and the reset on Jan. 1.
Board members raised concerns about clarity of ordinance language — especially section 46‑13 dealing with bulk and vegetative waste (placement windows and size limits) — and asked the town attorney to confirm verbiage before enforcement escalates. Members discussed the 4‑inch diameter limit referenced in the code and whether that threshold remains appropriate for modern landscaping practices.
Residents at the meeting described real-world enforcement challenges. James Phillips of 7500 Westlake Drive said he received a warning when his neighbor’s landscaper left debris on the boundary; Eric explained both adjacent properties can be cited depending on placement and urged residents to call or email staff so enforcement can be clarified on a case-by-case basis.
Board members and staff discussed repeat offenses for parking on grass. Eric said he and board members have a pattern of repeated instances for two properties; the board discussed shortening compliance windows for repeat behavior and using notice-of-hearing procedures when statutory requirements are met.
Town Administrator Joe Lobello noted the ordinance is consistent with county practice and said the town’s approach prioritizes safety and education before citations. The board agreed to continue outreach to residents and landscapers and to return repeat or unresolved cases to the enforcement docket for hearings.