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Fernandina Beach code board sets deadlines and daily fines for two properties
Summary
The Fernandina Beach Code Enforcement Board found one property in continuing violation and gave it six months to complete porch and siding repairs, setting $50/day fines to start afterward; the board also granted a 60‑day extension for a fence survey dispute and set $25/day fines if noncompliant.
The Fernandina Beach Code Enforcement and Appeals Board on Thursday continued enforcement actions on two historic‑era properties, setting firm compliance deadlines and daily fines if owners do not finish required repairs.
City Attorney Tammy Bach opened the meeting with procedural guidance, advising that appeals of final board decisions must be filed to the circuit court within about 35 calendar days. The board then considered reports from code enforcement and property owners about progress on repairs and surveys.
For case no. 20203, a homeowner who identified herself as Ruth Maestre described ongoing porch and siding restoration at her house, saying crews had reset porches and were salvaging original siding and corbels. Officer Wells told the board the remaining open violations concern peeling paint and prep work on the south side of the structure, and that previously rotten balusters and handrails had been removed. After debate about whether to permit a limited cosmetic fix or require more extensive preservation work, the board voted to continue finding the property in violation and gave the owner six months to come into compliance on or before 04/03/2025. Administrative fees were recorded at $636.94; the board directed that if the property is not in compliance by 04/04/2025, fines of $50 per day will begin.
In the case titled William Joines, 1608 Pembroke Drive (case no. 202442), Jill Jenkins (partner to the owner) said a re‑survey showed the fence about 0.2 inches over the property line and that she had been working to secure the adjacent owner’s written agreement or have the fence moved. The board granted a 60‑day extension, assessed administrative fees (noted as $306.06), and set fines of $25 per day to begin if the property remained out of compliance after the extension; the compliance deadline was recorded as on or before 12/02/2024, with fines beginning 12/03/2024 if not completed.
Other items: The board reviewed a separate property that staff reported is now in compliance, and discussed a fine‑reduction request for a case involving an inoperative vehicle on a vacant lot; staff said they would contact the owner and continue that matter to the November meeting for further consideration.
In public comment former Commissioner Chip Ross asked the board to consider residents’ ability to pay when setting daily fines, noting many people who come before the board are on fixed incomes.
The board closed the meeting and said its next hearing is scheduled for November 7.
