Escambia County board fines contractor James F. Howard $3,500, orders $4,303 restitution to homeowner
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Summary
After considering staff evidence and testimony, the board found James F. Howard in violation on three counts and assessed fines totaling $3,500 plus restitution of $4,303 to the complainant; the board also recommended state review and potential revocation.
The Escambia County Contractor Competency Board found James F. Howard doing business as James F. Howard Construction in violation of multiple county code provisions and ordered fines and restitution at its Jan. 1 meeting.
Staff presented Complaint No. 250762COM involving complainant Lily Johnson (2301 West Michigan Ave.). The board reviewed allegations including mismanagement or misconduct causing financial harm, failure to supervise construction activities, and failure to apply for required permits within 30 days after receiving an initial payment, citing Florida Statutes on contractor payments and permit timing.
After receiving staff reports and moving evidence into the record, the board voted to find Howard in violation on three counts. The board assessed fines of $1,500 for the first count and $1,000 each for the second and third counts, totaling $3,500. The board also granted the complainant restitution in the amount of $4,303 and amended the order so that restitution must be paid before any county fines are accepted. The board further voted to recommend the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB) review the matter and consider revocation of state registration.
The board discussed time frames and enforcement consequences, setting a staged payment schedule and tying nonpayment to potential revocation of local registration. The action includes administrative follow up to ensure restitution is paid and to transmit the case record to the CILB for review.
