Magistrate approves lien after staff cites exposed electrical panel and large fines in Perkins case

In a later segment of the February 2026 special magistrate hearing, Alachua County code administration reported that Perkins and Perkins were guilty and not in compliance, with prosecution costs and daily fines that county staff calculated into a total fine figure presented to the magistrate.

Counsel Niles Whitten represented the respondent, and Ms. Perkins described efforts to obtain permits and contractors, financial hardship, caregiving obligations and difficulties securing repairs. Ms. Perkins said she receives Social Security and had limited funds to address necessary work.

County staff warned the magistrate that the property presented electrical safety hazards: the main electrical panel cover was missing and wires were exposed and running on the ground, and some wiring ran near the pool. As code staff put it, "the cover is removed from that, so all the wires are exposed" and the main wires leading into the house were on the ground, which staff described as unsafe and in need of repair or burial.

Given the safety concerns and outstanding noncompliance, staff recommended placement of a lien. The magistrate agreed that a lien would be placed and noted that the respondent could later petition for a reduction of fines after achieving compliance and documenting hardship and remediation.

The magistrate emphasized safety first and encouraged the respondent to coordinate with building and electrical staff; county staff offered guidance on fencing and contacting the building department to verify that any temporary measures make the site safer while longer‑term repairs are arranged.