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Lake Clarke Shores reports 42 citations in monthlong enforcement push; board weighs swale and boat-ramp parking fairness
Summary
Staff reported 42 citations issued in the past month under 'Operation Law and Order,' two repeat offenders paid fines, and the town is revamping its citation form; board members also discussed that property owners are generally required to maintain swales while boat-ramp trailer parking raises fairness concerns for adjacent owners.
At the Town of Lake Clarke Shores Code Enforcement Board meeting, staff provided a monthly enforcement update and raised questions about maintenance responsibility for swales and the use of swale areas near the town boat ramp.
“Over the last month, 42 citations have been issued,” staff member Eric told the board, adding that two repeat citations resulted in fines that have been paid. Eric said the citation form is being revamped and reviewed by town staff and legal counsel before fines are routinely issued, and that the first payable fine after warnings is currently $125.
Eric said enforcement has focused on early placement of yard waste and bulky items and on landscapers who repeatedly put material out too early or place it in the street. He described outreach efforts to landscapers and residents, including working with town staff who can provide Spanish-language contact when needed.
On maintenance duties, Eric told the board that while swales are owned by the town in some locations, property owners are generally required by code to maintain the swale area up to the pavement. “The swale is owned by the town, but it's a responsibility of the property owner to maintain that area,” Eric said; board members said staff has cited owners in the past for persistent bare, eroded or compacted swale areas.
The board also discussed parking near the town’s single boat ramp. Staff said vehicles launching boats have the right to park on either side of the ramp and that trailer parking activity places an unfair maintenance burden on the adjacent homeowner when the town’s public-use activity concentrates there. Board members suggested consulting the town manager and public works about potential paving or other measures given drainage and flooding considerations.
No new fines or policy changes were adopted at the meeting; staff said it would continue to monitor repeat violators and bring cases forward after the citation form is finalized.
