Code Enforcement Board asks commission to retain volunteer panel rather than special magistrate

The Winter Springs Code Enforcement Board voted Aug. 25 to ask the city commission to retain the volunteer code board instead of replacing it with a paid special magistrate, citing community context and compassion in enforcement.

Board members said volunteers provide local knowledge and discretionary, educative enforcement that a paid magistrate might not replicate. One long-serving board member noted the board’s history of helping residents return to compliance: "This code board serves voluntarily… We were out to educate people and to help bring people back into compliance," the member said, arguing for continued local control. Several members agreed to have a board representative meet the city manager and the commission to convey the board's position. The motion to request the commission drop plans for a special magistrate passed unanimously by roll call.

Board leadership will send a formal statement and suggested representatives to the commission and city manager. The board emphasized its intent to preserve both public safety and compassion in enforcement decisions.