Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Code Enforcement topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners accept $30,000 settlement and release liens in long-running waterfront lot clearing case
Summary
After considering a 2022 code‑enforcement matter involving two waterfront lots cleared without required permits, the board approved a settlement to release liens in exchange for $30,000 plus costs, a discount from potential fines that the county calculated at $469,200.
The board approved a settlement to resolve a pair of code-enforcement cases stemming from clearing and grading of two waterfront lots without finalized permits.
County counsel outlined the history: the special master previously found violations and required abatement; the owner later sought permits but did not complete abatement and the outstanding fines and fees accumulated. Counsel said the raw statutory maximum exposure at the time of settlement was approximately $469,200. The owner initially offered $2,000; after negotiation staff presented a compromise offer to the board for $30,000 plus costs ($270 recorded).
Commissioner Jeff Kennard led the motion in favor of a settlement that would release the county liens upon receipt of $30,000 plus the administrative costs. Commissioners said the $30,000 settlement would represent a substantial discount from the total potential lien and noted that the county’s process requires a complainant to initiate code cases. The board voted 4-0 to accept the settlement and release the liens.
What’s next: Upon payment of $30,000 and costs, staff will record the lien release and close the code case. County counsel noted the county retains discretion in future enforcement and that settlement terms do not set a blanket precedent.
