Special magistrate hears request to cut $83,600 code-enforcement lien on Cape Canaveral property

A Special Magistrate on July 22 heard testimony from City of Cape Canaveral staff and family members seeking a reduction or release of a code-enforcement lien recorded against the Rita M. Goldberg life estate at 403 Harbor Drive.

Rick Geller, the Special Magistrate appointed by the City Council of Cape Canaveral, opened the hearing by explaining the application process under City code and Florida law and listing the factors he must weigh in recommending a reduction or release. "The first thing that must happen is an applicant submits an application for a reduction of a lien or release of a lien," he said, describing documentary and procedural requirements. He said his recommendation would go to the City Council, which makes the final decision.

Gerald Coates, the city's code manager, told the magistrate that staff's records show the lien had accrued retroactively beginning July 22, 2020, pursuant to earlier magistrate orders and that the recorded lien had reached roughly…