Magistrate allows limited public testimony, reiterates evidentiary rules for code hearings

Before hearing case matters, Ms. Prince outlined quasi‑judicial procedures that apply to the Fernandina Beach Code Enforcement special magistrate hearing: witnesses testify under oath, parties may present evidence and call witnesses, emails to be included in the record must be received by noon on the hearing day, and the special magistrate is the finder of fact who may exclude irrelevant or repetitive evidence.

Ms. Prince noted that the office of the city attorney advises the hearing on procedure and evidence. Although the ordinance generally limits public testimony to designated witnesses, Ms. Prince and Magistrate Poole agreed to allow one neighbor to appear for the Waldo matter because the hearing notice had encouraged public attendance. Those intending to testify were sworn by the clerk before they spoke.

Magistrate Poole emphasized professionalism and decorum for the official proceeding and explained that written orders would follow oral rulings. City staff and the magistrate clarified that registration status is used as evidence of operability for vehicles and that properly titled and licensed vehicles may remain on private property subject to code requirements.