Yeah, I was I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, and with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. I always like to remind us why we're here.
Okay, this is the code enforcement hearings for the city of Deiniac Springs. And uh if you would please turn off your phones if you've got them on so they don't disrupt the hearings. Code enforcement officer Chris Strong will he represents the city and he will be pre presenting
the city's evidence of code violations and properties within the cities. He will do so by his testimony by f of photos, videos, powerpoint presentation and other witness testimony. Once Chris Officer Stron has completed his presentation of the case, you the
landowner will be present your testimony and evidence as to why you're not in violation. And you may ask questions of Officer Strong and present witnesses on your behalf and question his witnesses. Once both sides have presented their cases, I will consider the evidence and render a ruling based on the evidence
presented by both sides. An order will be issued and you will need to stay until the clerk of the court can present the copy of the order to you. This order, if a violation is found, usually gives a period of time to correct the violation. And if you do correct the violation, it is your duty to contact
the code enforcement office to verify the correction in order to stop any fines from acrewing against you. Uh, everyone who may testify before this court, please stand to be sworn in. Will you guys be Do you solemnly swear or affirm to tell the truth, the whole truth, or nothing but the truth for the
matter before this court? >> Thank you. Let the record reflect that everyone has been sworn in. Officer Strong, you may present your first case. Thank you. The halls have been called, ma'am. >> Thank you. Let the record reflect. The halls have been called and and did
anyone is anyone appeared? >> Two. >> Okay. You're you're the ones here for this one. Very good. All right. You may present your case. >> Finding a fact hearing case number 2025000045. Violations are chapter 5 section 5-3 permits chapter 5 section 5-23
structure unfit for hummocracy chapter 14 section 14-3 violations enumerated chapter 18 section 1851.1 junked wreck junked and abandoned vehicles and other property chapter 18 section 1866 accessory uses and
structures addresses at 49 Carver Loop partial number 253 November 1 1919 070 0000100 07 70 property owner is Newborn Family Trust. Exhibit one shows that the property is inside the city limits and subject to
the code of ordinances. Exhibit 2 was inspected on 225 of 2025. Exhibit 3, inspection 42 of 2025. Exhibit four, inspection 63 of 2025. Exhibit five, section 73 of 2025. Exhibit six on section 822 of 2025.
Exhibit seven on inspection on 103 of 2025. Exhibit 8 inspection 113 to 2025. Exhibit 9 on section 128 of 2025. Exhibit 10 on section 12 of 2026. And then today's date 115 of 2026.
On February 26, 2025, while conducting code enforcement inspections, I observed violations at the property located at 49 Carver Loop. Photographs were taken to document conditions on the property. A review of internal case files confirmed there was no um active or ongoing code
for code enforcement cases. uh search of the Walton County Property Appraisers Office records confirm the property is located within the city limits of the Fiak Springs and is owned by the Newborn Family Trust. The following condition was observed accumulated accumulation of discarded personal
property, construction materials, and other debris on the property, a disabled vehicle located on the property. On February 27th, 2025, a notice of um a warning notice was prepared and mailed to the property owner. April the 2nd, 2025, a follow-up inspection was
conducted. Violations remained. April the 16th, 2025, a notice of violations was paired and mailed to the property owner. On June the 3rd of 2025, inspection was conducted. The violations remained. During this inspection, it was brought to code enforcement's attention that the individuals were residing in
accessory structure located between the primary structure on the on the um on the property. Code enforcement contacted the Walton County Building Department and the City of James Springs Community Development Department. No permits were located for the construction of the accessory structures and no records were
found indicating approval or compliance. The accessory structure is also does not appear to meet the minimum inquir separation distances. A separate notice of violation was prepared and mailed to the property owner. On June the 9th, 2025, Michael
Newborn contacted code enforcement requesting extension stating that either the tenant would bring the property into compliance or be evicted. A 30-day extension was granted for the property owner. July the 3rd, 2025, inspection was conducted, the violations remained. Additional 30 days um extension was
granted for the property owner. August 22nd, 2025, inspection was conducted. Violations remained. The tenant was present during the inspection and acknowledged the violations. the tenant state that he is disabled and requested additional time to bring the property into compliance. Examining the progress
was dependent on his physical ability. A 30-day extension was granted to the tendant. October 3rd of 2025, inspection was conducted. The violations remained. A notice violation was prepared and sent to the property owner via certified mail. Return receipt requested.
Certified mail number was 9589-0710-52700 0781 019403 and it was delivered on November the 3rd 2025 inspection was conducted the violations remained October the excuse me December the 8th 2025 inspection was conducted the
violations remained on Jul J January the 2nd 2026 inspection was conducted the violations remained a notice of hearing was prepared and sent to the property owner via certified mail with a return receipt The notice of hearing was hearing was posted at city hall and hand delivered to the tenant on the subject
property. Certified mail was 9589071052700 0781 019441 and that one was delivered on January the 15th 2026. Inspection was conducted on the prop on the date of the hearing. Although improvements have been made, the property remains in
non-compliance. >> Can you show me a picture of the accessory structure that you're referring? >> Yes, ma'am. Okay, thank you. >> So, if you'll look right there behind in the middle picture, >> there is a structure they're built right there, >> the uh one with the tin roof.
>> Yes. And um I went back and looked up to the um our our information, couldn't find anything, and then I contacted the Walton County Building Department who issues the permits on behalf of the city, and they had no permits for that structure being built. >> Okay. Is that a a u like a portable shed
or is it just something somebody built there? >> I couldn't see to tell for exactly what it is. I was just informed basically it's a structure over a RV that doesn't have its axles. >> Okay.
>> But due to the um fence, I couldn't go back there and actually observe for myself. Okay. >> Thank you. You may proceed. Exhibit 13, the letter of um or notice warning.
Exhibit 14, letter of violation. Exhibit 15, letter of violation. Exhibit 16, letter of violation, certified mail. Exhibit 17, letter of violation tracking showing was delivered. Exhibit 18 is the notice of hearing.
Exhibit 19, notice of hearing showing it was delivered. Exhibit 20. My recommendations. Find out the property located at 49 Carver Loop, Definite Springs, Florida. Parcel number 253 November 1 1919070000001
00070 is located within municipality limits of the city of Defin Springs and is subject to the city of city of Defining Springs code of ordinances. find that the property or the property is in violation of chapter 5 section 5-3
and 5-23 section 14 section 14-3 chapter 18 section 18-58.1 and 88 or excuse me 1866 of the city of Phoenix Springs code of ordinances find that the proper notice of the hearing was provided to the respondent order the respondent to
correct all violations within 90 days of date of this special misty's order and to contact the city of the Phoenix Springs code enforcement office to schedule a reinspection to verify compliance. Order that order that should have the respondant failed to comply with the terms of this order or fail to
bring the property into compliance within the required time frame of $5 $100 per day to be assessed until compliance is achieved. >> Uh is anyone living in the main structure the main again? Who is that? Do you know? >> Um this gentleman right here. >> Okay. All right. Very good. All right.
Is that the >> That's in my testimony. >> Okay. accept your testimony into the record along with your PowerPoint presentation and your report as evidence. Would are you Mr. Newman? >> Yes, sir. >> If you'd like to come forward and if you would state your name and address into the microphone for our records.
>> James Michael Newborn, 471 Howard Jones Road, Definiac Springs, Florida 32433. >> Thank you. Go ahead. You present your case. >> Uh >> or just just tell me what's going on. Yes. >> Yes, ma'am. Several years ago, um Mr.
Paul here uh was working with one of my subcontractors as a truck driver and he got evicted out of a or had to move out of a house in Crest View and he asked me if there was a place to stay >> and that the only place I had available
for him was um the house on Carver Loop. We had u put a new roof on. We put new windows in. We had it dried in into the sheetrock stage. Do you are you talking about the main house or the house? >> Just the main house. >> Just the main house. Okay. >> Yes, ma'am. And um I told him he was he
was down on his luck. He didn't have a place to go. I u respected Mr. Paul and wanted to try to help him. So I told him as a temporary basis, you know, no lease, no rent, he didn't owe me anything, just to try to keep him off
the streets. >> Sure. >> And so I let Mr. Paul moved in and um uh kind of forgot about to be honest with you. I I didn't go back and check on him or anything like that. Um I did get some notifications from Mr. Stron
telling me that there was some violations there. Every time I would get a a uh notification, I'd take a picture of it. I'd go by and talk to Mr. Paul, explain that this was important, that this was a necessity, that he keeps this cleaned up. Um,
unfortunately in the last couple of months, his health has went down even worse than it was before. Um, it's got to a point now where Mr. Strong is completely right. >> There has to be something done. And I
told him there had to be something done. on uh January 9th, I called Chief Hurley from the police department and him and Jason Atinson come out and uh we trying to think of a way that I could get involved
>> because he's a tenant there. >> I have to follow certain rules and I I have the rules here that I'll be glad to get you. >> I'm familiar with them. Thank you. >> Yes, ma'am. Um, and the chief told me he would be glad to help me, but I had to um because there's no lease or no rent
being paid, I have to do a 7-day for cause >> eviction, which has been posted and and that process has happened. Then I have to go file all the paperwork is filled out. It's ready to go. Mhm. >> Um once that's all done and the judge
orders me and gives me permission to take back the property, then within two days I have the equipment and in the ability to have it completely done. >> Do you have an attorney representing you on the eviction case? >> No, ma'am. To be
>> Have you you f you've done the seven days, but you haven't filed your eviction notice yet? >> Because the seven days is not completed yet. >> Okay. Is he going to be out by the end of the seven days or what's the plan? >> Now, what he's telling me and what he wants to do if it's permissible for you
is to get in compliance. >> Okay? I mean, that that would be best for everyone. >> And if and if you accept that and you accept his terms, then I don't mind holding off on this, but if you tell me, Mike, this has got to be done, I will file it and the sheriff's department
will physically remove him if that's what you want. >> Okay. Um, Mr. uh, Paul, would you like to testify? Are you finished with your testimony? And I'll bring you back up in a minute as well because I, but I'd like to ask him some question. Mr. Paul, >> are you going to be able to bring the
property into compliance to get rid of the rest of the debris and and the disabled car? >> Well, the disabled car has been gone. >> Oh, it has? It is. Okay, fair. Good. >> On the 16th, it was removed. Okay. Now the problem is will be the trailer RV that he told me about in the back underneath the
>> structure that was not permitted. >> Is somebody living in that? >> No. >> Okay. All right. But it did it is >> there was the box trailer that was there too. They they they said they don't want that up front on that pad. So that's going from there as well which the all
the items that were in that box trailer I had to remove out which helped cause the clutter around the house because they had to go somewhere. Yes, sir. >> So, >> well, the um Kobe, do does the um do we still have the free dumpsters available for people or not?
>> The CRA has has >> and I just gave him one of the flyers for that to contact Mr. Hamilton. >> Okay, very good. >> And then on top of that, I mean, we knuckle bones are there long that property meets knuckle boom requirements, right, for what's allow
picked up. We obviously did already on weekly basis. >> Yeah. Okay. Very good. And in regard to that other truck that was there, that was a perfectly fine truck until the uh ex-girlfriend, she had a stroke and that affects the brain and she kind of went nuts and she set that on fire right where it sat.
>> Oh my goodness. >> So it was not like I I brought junk to the house or anything. >> Well, even if somebody threw trash in your yard, you got the responsibility to pick it up. >> I understand. I just wanted to explain how that came to be. >> Okay. Now, uh, have you contacted, um, any of the tow companies to pick up the
truck? Because my understanding is I don't know about a burn burn truck, a burn vehicle, but >> it's been handled. Uh, you >> Okay, it's been handled. So, it's gone. >> The truck's gone, but now since he told me about the RV with no axles in the back underneath the other structure, >> right, that has to be removed. >> It needs to be removed and the structure
needs to be removed because there's no permits for it. >> Right. Okay. Very good. So, you I I understand that you have disability and and health issues. So, how do you plan to fill up the dumpsters once we get them to you? >> What What is your plan? >> Well, I would get some help from some people that be willing to help. Good
help is hard to find sometimes. >> Okay. And who have who have you contacted? Any of the um any of the local who have you contacted to help you with this or who do you intend to contact? >> Uh well, so far it's just been some people around the neighborhood, you know, needing some work to do or
whatever. I don't know of any official organization. >> Okay. All right. And what what would you um what is your plan that you want to present to me as the judge? >> Well, um I mean I think it looks a bit better there towards the end. It's like small stuff now. It's not anything big
that and except for the building in the back and I'm going to have a guy remove that. >> He uh he moves houses. >> Shouldn't be no problem for him to remove a shed and sell it to him or whatever. If I um go with the uh code enforcement officer suggestion of 90 days to give you to get this
straightened up, will you be able to do it within that time frame? >> I certainly hope so and I'm confident that >> Okay. Anything else you'd like to present to me? >> No, just sorry that you had to take your time out of your day to deal with this problem and >> All right. >> It certainly wasn't intentional.
>> Okay. Thank you so much. Um, Kobe, is there any other programs for him to get help to for someone who's disabled to be able to >> uh is there any any programs that we have or we know of the county has? >> Uh, the CRA did a cleanup day here about
probably a year and a half, two years ago now. They worked with Habitat, I believe. >> Okay. They did coordinate Habitat and do that as well. So, that's the only other one I'm aware of at the moment. Uh what about Tri uh does Tri County have any or the Council on Aging have any programs that you know of?
>> Not that I'm aware of. >> Okay, that may be something for you to check into. I don't know if Council on Aging has anything that can help you. Uh but they're just right down the street and um I don't think Tri County would have anything, but Matrix also may be a resource for you.
>> Uh so you can go in and and speak with them, make an appointment with them and see if you can get some help from them as well. >> All right. >> Yes, sir. Mr. Newman, >> I uh just wanted to add that uh I appreciate you helping him and working with him.
Whenever you feel like it's my responsibility, I assure you I will take care of it immediately. I regret Mr. Strong and you guys having to be involved in this. I just kind of wanted to help somebody.
U but I'm prepared to do whatever you guys tell me. I just asked let me have a chance before you find me to to take care of it. >> All right. Well, it um will you be able to work with him uh during this 90-day period or
>> Yes, ma'am. Um >> like I said, we have a construction company. We're I'm a contractor. Okay. >> And once if we I can go in there with a skid steer and put everything in the dumpster pretty quick. to me and you
that looks horrible. >> But to someone in this position that is value you see what I mean? And so >> I do >> um I just kind of I want to do what you
tell me to do. >> Yes, sir. Mr. Paul, if he could come in with his skid steer and just um pick up all the trash for you and put it in the dumpster, if we can get you a free dumpster from CRA, would you allow him to do that as your landlord and your friend?
>> I don't think we cover all that. >> He thinks he can do it on his own. But let's say you do give him 90 days and we're 60 days in >> and he tells me I'm I'm not going to be able to make it for whatever reason. if he would pick up his items that he would
really like and put them in a place that's appropriate and then tell me to come in, I can have it looking very nice in one or two days. >> Very good. Mr. Paul, is that something you would allow your landlord to do? >> Sure. >> Okay. Um, so what and also with uh with
the order, I will more than likely um allow you to have conversation with officers Tron and if he he has the authority on my behalf to extend the 90 days >> and and the main thing here is communication and that he's seeing something's being done.
>> What we would like to do is kind of report into Mr. Strong, let him say, "Yeah, this is appropriate. This is not appropriate. We got to get rid of this." and we we will do what he says. We don't you don't have to tell us. He can tell us and we're perfectly
>> fine with following the rules. >> Okay, that's very good. >> Um and so you have this is in a family this is in a family trust. Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. And are you the trustee? I should have asked you that to begin with. Are you the trustee for the trust? >> That's a lot of times I make my son the
trustee, but I'm the beneficiary of the trust. And >> Okay. And who's current trustee? >> I would have to look on the paperwork on this particular one, but it would probably be either my corporation, BMKN Incorporated, or my son, Caleb Newborn. Our office is here on the circle at the
1226 Circle. >> Oh, you're right next door to me. >> Yes, ma'am. Are you Miss New Y? >> Yeah. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Nice to meet you. >> Nice to meet you. >> We're glad you're there. Well, thank you. >> Um well, good. just keep in touch with officer Strong and um the the issue the
the fact that he's not a paying tenant and you've allowed him to stay there. may be able to use if it comes down to it unlawful detainer as well as a in instead of a um eviction which could work better to you but I would encourage
you to contact an attorney to represent you on this because as a trust uh I'm not sure the judge would allow you to become to come in without an attorney. I mean, it is in small claims, but >> I've seen there where if it was a certain amount, you had to have an attorney, but I tried to
>> Well, they they we've got some new judges in, so I'm not sure what they're doing with that yet, but that's something for you to check on. All right. Any more information, Mr. Paul? Mr. Newman? >> No, just uh >> All right. I'm I'm prepared to rule on
this as it is. Um I find that the Let me read it out. On case number 202545, the city of Definiac versus Newborn Family Trust. This case has come before me in a public hearing before the special magistrate of the city of
Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida on Thursday, January 15, 2026 after due notice to the respondent and I I let the record reflect that the respondent and the tenant are present and the special mist having heard testimony under oath received evidence and heard argument
hereby issues this finding of fact and conclusion of law and orders as follows. I find that the respondent Newborn family trust represented by u Mr. Newborn, whose mailing address is 471 Howard Jones Road, Defiac Springs, Florida 32433, is the owner of the real
property described as and also known as 49 Carver Loop, Defiak Springs, Florida, Walton County. Parcel ID number 253 November 1 1919700 070. The real property listed above is located and existing within the city of
Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida. respondent as the owner of the real property is responsible for maintaining the same in accordance with the code of ordinances of the city of Definiac Springs. All required notices have been made in accordance with Florida statute 162.12 and county code
conditions presently exist on the subject property in violation of city code section chapter 5 section 5-3 permits that is for the RV structure chapter 5 section 523 structure unfit for human occupancy again the RV
structure chapter 14 section 14-3 violations enumerated chapter 18 section 18-58.1 wreck junct and abandoned vehicles and other property. Chapter 18- section 18-66 Accessories used and structures as
such conditions constitute a nuisance and a serious threat to public health, safety, and welfare within the meanings of Florida statute 162.06 subchapter 4. This has been a lawfully con constituted code enforcement proceeding convened pursuant to chapter 162 part one of
Florida statutes and chapter 18 of city of Phoenix Springs Land Development Code. As special magistrate, I have jurisdiction of the subject matter and the respondent. In this order, I am uh ordering you to correct the violation honorable before 90 days or a fine of
$100 per day shall um be imposed and that the respondent is further ordered to contact the city of Definak Springs code enforcement office to arrange for a reinspection of the subject property to verify compliance. That's very important because if you don't contact him, he's not going to know and the fines may
start running. So that's that's why you need to stay in contact with him. I also give uh officer Stron the authority to uh enter into an extended compliance state on behalf of my behalf of the special magistrate upon a showing of good faith effort and by the respondent.
I wish you both luck and that's very kind of you to take someone in. More of us need to do that. >> Thank you, M. >> You're welcome. If you'll just wait a few minutes, we'll have copies of these for both of you. >> Yes, ma'am. Okay,
here's this one. >> You you you'll be within compliance with >> Again, communication is absolutely necessary. So, just keep in contact with officer. >> Yes, she is. >> And Mr. Mr. Paul, I wish you the best of luck. >> Thank you. >> Okay. And reach out to some of these
organizations that can help you. >> All right. >> We all have our time. We need help. >> Okay. >> Oh my goodness. >> I I understand car wreck injuries >> from the side of the house. I'll make
him put in the dumpster. >> Oh my goodness. anything else I see in the back >> and when you get ready we'll do a tour but you will be in my prayers everything you're welcome >> get it all fixed up for you thank you sir sorry for your choice
>> oh you're quite welcome >> thank you sir >> okay you may bring your next case I think I have my The halls have been called. No one is present. >> You may begin your case. Finding a fact
here in case number 202500000093 violations chapter 14 section 14-3 violations enumerated address is 60 or 695 Lakeside Drive. Parcel number is 022 November 1 19183000 Charlie 0130.
Property owner is Keith A. Calfman. Exhibit one shows the properties inside the city limits of the Phoenix Springs and subject to the code of ordinances. Exhibit 2 is inspection 530 of 2025. Exhibit three on August the 1st of 2025.
Exhibit four inspection on 99 of 2025. Exhibit five inspection on 1010 of 2025. Exhibit 6 on inspection on 1112 of 2025. Exhibit 7 inspection on 1212 of 2020 2025. Exhibit Ace in section one two of 2026. >> Is that rust on the roof or is that pine
straw? >> That's pine straw. >> Okay. and exhibit 8 inspection 115 of 2026, today's date. He has actually gotten everything back in compliance. All the stuff is being removed there in front of the shed. The
um the vehicles that were thought to be um inoperable actually do work. They're all all tagged. >> Okay. How about the boats? >> Um the boat's tagged. It's been removed from the property for the time being. Um >> one or two I thought I saw three boats. >> Uh >> two or three.
>> There should be only that one right there. Uhhuh. >> The main big one. >> Um the rest were some lawnmowers. There are >> over here. There's some over here and on the back side, right? Um so he had several motorcycles also. There was parked over there.
>> So he's um basically rearranged so he get the motorcycles back into the garage or they can be stored. The boat's been removed. Um, I talked to Mr. Kathman on Friday on the um, January the 2nd. He's a
contractor, so the trailer's used for contracting at times when he goes back and forth. Um, but mostly majority his tools are actually in the red truck. >> Okay. Is the trailer tagged currently? Yes. Okay. Very good.
On May the 30th, 2025, code enforcement received complaints from Robert Wilson at 643 Lakeside Drive and Councilwoman Amy Heavenly at 1350 Baldwin Avenue regarding the property located at 695 Lakeside Drive. A review of the internal case files confirmed there was no active
or ongoing case code enforcement cases associated with the property. Records from the Walton County Property Appraisers Office confirmed the property is within is within the city of the Phoenix Springs limits and is owned by a Keith A. Cathman. Photographs were taken
to document existing conditions on the property. Following observed commul accumulated discarded personal property, construction materials and other materials on the property, overgrowth of grass and weeds and wild vegetation at a height of 12 inches or more. Um, two trailers were observed on the property,
each containing mis miscellaneous items. Neither trailer displayed a current license tag. Um, June the 2nd, 2025, a notice of a warning notice was prepared and mailed to the property owner. August the 1st, 2025, a follow-up inspection was conducted. The violations um
remained. August the 6, 2025, a notice of violation was prepared and mailed to the property owner. Um September the 9th, 2025, inspection was conducted. The violation was remained on September the 10th, 2025. A violation, a notice of violation was paired and sent to the
property or certified mail with no with no um with return receipt. Um certified mail was 95890710-5270291-467275 and it was delivered October the 10th, 2025, inspection was conducted, the violations remained. November 12th, 2025, inspection was conducted. The
violations remained. December the 12th, 2025, inspection inspection was continued or conducted and the violations remained. January 2nd, 2025, inspections was conducted. The violations remained. A notice of violation was prepared and sent to the prop property owners via certified mail
with a turn receipt requested. The notice was posted at city hall and h delivered to the property owner. Surfy mail was 9589-0710-5270 0781 019519 and it was delivered January the 15th
2026 inspection was conducted on the date of the hearing improvements were observed and the property is now in compliance. Exhibit 10's letter of violation. Exhibit 11 another letter of violation. Exhibit 12 letter of violation. Certified mail. Exhibit 13's letter
violation tracking show it's delivered. Exhibit 14, notice of hearing. Exhibit 15, not of hearing tracking show it's delivered. Um specific 16 recommendations. Find that the property located at 69695 Lakeside Drive, Defic Springs, Florida,
partial number 022, November 1 19183000 Charlie 0130 is located within municipality limits of the city of Definite Springs and is subject to the city of Defian code of ordinances. Find the property was in violation of chapter
14 section 14-3 of the city of Phoenix of the city of def Springs code of ordinances. Find that the proper notice of the hearing was um provided to the respondent in accordance with application capable requirements. Find that find that any future occurrence of the same violation by the respondent
shall constitute a repeat violation and may be and may be subject to enhanced enforcement action. End of my testimony. >> And that's your uh evidence. Yes, ma'am. >> I accept your evidence and your testimony into the record. Um, is there
have they been communicating with you since May? >> No, they have not. Um, he only started communicating on the date that he um on that Friday on January the 2nd. >> Okay. >> And then he called this morning, wanted to make sure I went by and checked the property. He um
didn't I don't think he thought it was that important regarding the letters until we actually had a heart-to-he heart talk on that Friday regarding the um the hearing date. >> Okay. >> And then he was more than happy to have everything brought into compliance while
I explained everything and the importance of communication with me. >> Yeah. It bothers me that this has gone on since May of last year, and that's no fault of yours, but the the homeowner uh not taking it seriously. Okay. Is u is
Mr. uh Keith Kathman here? >> He is not. Um now, he did ask when did he have to be present since the property is in compliance? I told him he didn't have to be, but it was up to him if he wanted to show up or not. >> Is there anyone else here uh wanting to testify on 695 Lakeside Drive to Phoenix
Springs, Florida? Seeing none and hearing none, I'll render my render my order. Okay. This is case number 250093, city of Definiac Springs versus Keith A. Kathman with a K. Uh this case came before me on uh as a special magistrate
for the city of Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida. on Thursday, January 15th, 2026, after due notice to the respondent and special magistrate, having heard testimony under oath, received evidence and heard argument, hereby issues the following finding of uh conclusion of law and order as
follows. The respondent, Keith A. Kathman, whose mailing address is 695 Lakeside Drive, Definiac Springs, Florida 32435, is the owner of the real property described as and also known as 695 Lakeside Drive, Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida. Parcel ID number 022
November 1 1918 030000000C Charlie 013 real property listed above is located and existing within the city of Definiac Springs Walton County Florida respondent as owner of the real property is responsible for maintaining and the same
in accordance with the code of ordinances of the city of Definiac Springs. All required notices have been made in accordance with statute 162.12 of Florida Florida statutes and county code. I find that the uh property has been brought into compliance. However,
it was not in compliance and was a violation and um that they have been remedied. No fine or u in this matter shall be imposed. However, future offenses of the same nature as cited in this case will be considered repeat
offenses and subject to fines as such. You may bring your next case. Thank you. This was on that last one. That's on the last case. And then here's the door. You may call the halls for the next
case. Thompson. >> The hall's been called. Miss Sherry Thompson is present in the courtroom. >> Okay, very good. Um, before you start, Miss To is that Miss Thompson? Would you stand and let me swear you in if you're are you planning
to testify? >> Are you? Well, just in case, uh, do you solemnly swear to present, uh, that you will testify the truth and whole truth and nothing but the truth before this matter and before this court today? >> Okay. Thank you. Let the record reflect that, um, she has been, uh, sworn in as
a witness. Okay. Go ahead and proceed, please. >> Finding a fact hearing case number 20250094. Violation is chapter 5, section 5-3 permits. Chapter 5, section 523, structure unfit for human occupancy. Chapter 18, section 844. Um, R2, Multif
Family Residential District. Address is 141 Morris Drive. Partial number is 253 November 1 1907 016210. Property owner is Timothy Herring and Sherry Thompson.
Exhibit one shows that the property is inside the city limits and subject to the code of ordinances. Exhibit two is fiction on 530 2025. The um violation of the structure itself is too close to right right away does not meet the setbacks. Also those structures
are not built for human occupancy. They are basically pre-made sheds. So they're not built to the Florida building code. And then we have the other structures in the back that permits were not pulled for construction.
Exhibit three, inspection on 73 of 2025. Exhibit four, inspection 88 of 2025. Exhibit five on inspection 9 of 2025. >> Is that a vehicle in the background behind the flag? Is that like a >> There's an RV and there's a truck right there. Um, right before you get to that one also.
>> Okay. Exhibit 6 on 9:30 at 2025. Exhibit 7 section on 1016 of 2025. Exhibit 8 on inspection 12 of 2026. and exhibit 9, section 115 of 2026. >> Are there any um occupiable buildings on
this on this property? >> Are there any? >> Only the one I know of for sure is the one right there is the one with the address of 141. I do not know if anyone if anyone's >> residing in the >> Is that the one to the far left? >> Okay. With the blue
>> Yes. residing in this one right here or not? >> Yeah. And I don't know if anyone is residing in the um RV. >> Okay. And what's the other blue structure back there? Or is that the same? Those are three different pictures, right? >> Right.
>> Okay. That's what confuses me. >> So should be now. That's not the same roof line. >> You have the structure. You have the main structure right there, >> right? >> And then you the which is that same structure. You have a you have a like
little lean tube >> uh >> there was was covering the truck. You have the main structure or the additional structure back there with with a tin roof on both sides. >> Okay. >> And then you have a lean to over the um the RV. >> Okay. Thank you.
On May the 30th, 2025, while conducting code enforcement inspections, I observed violations at the property located at 141 Morris Drive. Photographs were taken to document conditions of the property. A review of internal case files confirmed that there was no um active or
ongoing code enforcement case. A search of the Walton County Property Appraisers Office records confirmed that the property is located within the city limits of the Phoenix Springs and is owned by a Timothy Herring and Sherry Thompson. The following was reserved. Two two structures placed or built on
the property without permits being obtained from the city of Phoenix Springs planning department for the placement of any structures on the property or on the parcel. Individuals are residing in structures not designated for approved for human occupancy. A structure was placed on the
property does not meet the minimum setbacks requirements for an R2 zoning district um outlined in the city land development code which is front yard has to be at least 20 ft from the um road or from the park property line side of five feet and the rear 10. It definitely
meets the the sidey yard and rear yard does definitely does not meet the um the front yard setbacks. Is there are the occupants of those bu of those structures are they renters or they owners? >> I believe that Mr. Herring is living there, but we'll find out in a minute.
>> Very good. Thank you. >> June the 2nd, 2025, a notice of hearing was prepared and mailed to the property owner. July the 3rd, 2025, a follow-up inspection was conducted. The violation was maintained. A notice of violation was prepared and mailed to the property owner. August 8, 2025, inspection was
conducted. The violations remained. A notice of notice of violations was paired and sent to the property owner via certified mail with a return receipt requested. Certified mail was 958907105270 0291467220 and it was delivered August or September
the 9th 2025 section was confirmed or conducted. The violations remained September the 30th 2025 inspection was conducted. The violations remained a notice of hearing was prepared and sent to the property owner. Um, certified mail attorney receipt requested. The notice of hearing was posted at city
hall and on the subject property. Certified mail was 95890710527002914674 111 and since then it has been returned to us on October 16th 2025. I inspected inspection was conducted on the date of the first hearing. Um no improvements
were observed and the property remained um in the same condition. Special master ordered that the case be held until the next regular scheduled special mastery hearing which would have been January the 15th of 2026. That was due to the attorney that was on the phone call
technically was not allowed to um represent them because he didn't have his Florida bar. >> Right. >> January 2nd 2026 inspection was conducted. to the violations remain. A notice of hearing was prepared and sent to the property owner via certified mail
return receipt requested. Notice of hearing was also posted at city hall and h and hand delivered to an adult residing on the subject property. Certified mail was 9589-0710-5270 0781 019502 and is still being attempted to be
served. January 15, 2026. Inspection was conducted on the date of the hearing. No improvements were observed and the property remained in the same condition. During the time frame between October the 16th, 2025 and January the 2nd,
2026, we did actually receive communication from someone there on the property. Okay. >> Um they requesting a temp pole. Um I reached back out through email after I talked to Mr. Wallace. We were holding
off on the permit for the tent pole to find out what they're going to do with the tent pole and we had not heard back from them since that court date to find out what they were going to do regarding the properties. Um, still had not heard
back from that way and so that's why the second notice of hearing was sent to them to bring back forth. >> Okay. >> Exhibit 11, notice of violation. Exhibit 12, a letter of violation. Exhibit 13, a letter violation, certified mail.
Um, exhibit 14, a letter violation tracking showing it delivered. Um, that was exhibit 15 was the notice of hearing for the court date in October. Um, at time frame it was still trying to be delivered. Um, exhibit 17 is the notice of hearing
for this um, court date. And exhibit 18 hearing for this court date showing it's still being attempted. Exhibit 19. Find that the property located at 141 Morris Drive Springs, Florida. Partial number 253, November 1
19070016210 is located within the municipality limits of of the city of Phoenix Springs and is subject to the city code of ordinances. find that the property is in violation of chapter 5 section 5-3 se chapter 5 section 5-23 and chapter 18
section 18-44 um of the city of hearing strings code of ordinances find that the proper notice of the hearing was given to the respondent order the respondent to correct the violations within 120 days of the date of the special mastering order to contact
the city of Springs code enforcement office to schedule a reinspection to verify compliance order that the should the respondent fails to comply with the terms to the order or fail to bring the property into compliance with the regular um time frame, a fine of $100
per day to be assessed until compliance is achieved. This will be the testimony. >> Thank you. I accept your testimony into the record as well as your PowerPoint presentation and your photographs. Um Miss Thompson, would you like to come forward?
If you would please state your name uh and address in the record, please. And is it Sherry with a Y or IE? >> Why? >> Okay. Thank you very much. >> Sher Thompson. >> Um and what's your address? >> Uh I don't live at that property. I live
at 1235 Millard Gy Road. >> Okay. >> Um Definiac Springs. >> Uh >> so tell me what's going on with the property. Well, I've not been keeping up with my brother and his whatever. And I
guess I should have. Um I know he said that he had put in a permit for the pole and that he needed electricity to be able to bring things up to code. And I don't I don't know. I don't know. All I know is I don't want to lose this
property like I did my last property. >> Okay. Well, you're not going to lose it, right? You're not going to lose it right now. So, you know, don't be upset over that. Uh, however, um, on the last hearing, you had uh an attorney representing an estate. Who is that? >> Because I had lost I lost my property on
Orange Avenue um because of taxes. They auctioned it off. Well, not only did I lose the property, but I lost everything in the house because I didn't even know what was going on until it was over with. and everything got bulldozed down. >> Oh my goodness.
>> Um, but I hired an attorney to get the surplus from >> that. >> Okay. >> And if I had um it indicated to me, the attorney indicated to me I would not let him testif I would not let him present a
case because he wasn't licensed in the state of Florida. I understand from him in his in what he spoke to me about that they did have a Florida attorney handling this from somewhere I guess in Miami area. Have you spoken to them recently? >> I was unaware of another attorney.
>> Well, that was someone within his firm but >> within his firm >> within his firm but was not um was not on the on the Zoom call. So, I could not hear the case. So, you actually got two extra two and a half extra months uh to do something with this. Uh why does your
brother think that he needs electricity to move the um um to move the sheds back into compliance? >> He didn't specify with me. He just said that he needed it to be able to do that. I know that when they had it moved there, something
happened with the vehicle that was moving it and that's why it was where it was. As far as that goes, I don't know anything else about it. But I just I just need to know what I need to do to be able to >> Yes, ma'am. Did um Does your brother
live in the main structure, the the blue house? >> He was No, nobody's staying in that that blue house or building or whatever it is. He was staying in the camper. >> Okay. >> Um I don't know where he is right now, but uh he has some friends that are
living in that structure which belongs to them actually. It doesn't even belong to either me or my brother. It belongs to them and they had it moved there and in the process the vehicle got stuck or I wasn't there. So I don't know exactly
what happened but it ended up staying where it is. >> Okay. Um, is your brother uh handicapped or have a physical disability that prevents him from uh from having to handle this matter? >> I don't.
>> No. >> No. Okay. Very good. Um, this matter, we're not here to find you. We're not here to take your property. We're here just to get things in compliance and to make sure people are living in appropriate structures for their own safety. Because living in a a shed,
number one, that treated wood on the inside has all kinds of medical u medical side effects because it's not treated for human occupancy as well as, you know, it's not fire compliant. It's not code compliant. If the storm comes through, it um it's not going to hold up
to provide him any kind of safety. So, it's very important. Is he renting any of those to anyone that you know of? >> Not that I know of. >> Okay. Um the officer has officer Stron has requested 120 days uh to get you to come into compliance. Is that something you can do?
>> I will do my best. >> Okay. The the best is what we ask, but we also ask that you keep in communication with him. And also if you need more time, I will give him the authority to grant you more time. But in order to get that extension, you'll have to show him that you've made progress on
doing things such as contacting someone to move uh move those uh that one piece piece of property that is uh right up on the rightway. So, that needs to be moved immediately, but he cannot. Is there a reason why he's not staying in the main structure, the blue house?
>> Is it not occupiable? >> I don't I don't know if it's finished or not. I I really am not sure. >> Okay. Well, he needs to >> That's the building that was built without the permits. I know that. >> Well, actually, all those buildings on the property do not have any permits for
any of those. >> Well, that was built on the property. The other building was moved there, >> but there's no permit. But >> well, all of this is confusing to me, so I don't >> Well,
here's here's the problem. When the property was in the state, I actually brought this property to the magistrate for a whole bunch of there was the RV on there and there was a whole bunch of junk stuff in the property. So this property this is actually the second time this this property has been brought to the magistrate. There's fine already on this property already once now. This
will be the second time. So none of the structures were on there the very first time. So all the structures since the very first time I brought the ordinance or the property to the metro the first time, all the structures have been built. So, all those structures have to be removed, the one that was just
dropped off and the two pre-made sheds because the problem is you can't have a certy structures unless you have a primary structure and that primary structure that's on there because it's not made for democracy. It doesn't get the setbacks and you cannot
live in RV inside the city limits, >> right? So the RV can be stored there as long as it's tagged and proper, but no one can ever live in it. So that's the problem. Technically, your brother unfortunately needs to just clear everything off the property to
make the property come into compliance. >> So let me ask the blue structure. It's a shed as well. It's not a stick built, but it was built with no >> one of those from from what I can tell. It's It was one of the pre-bade ones that were built off site and dropped off
>> and >> but with a high pitch roof like that. I've never seen a >> Okay. >> Yeah. And so without them providing where they bought it from showing is built for cuboxy. Now they can be re restructured for by Ford
building codes but I need to see where they p bought it from >> the blue building. He built there. >> Okay. I mean, so >> but he built it without a per pulling a permit. So it's that was before the lawyer, it got put
in our names at that point is when I should have stepped in, but I didn't. I my brother said he was handling it. I believed him. >> I understand. Um the um the blue house is um so basically you need she needs to
um have have it re you need to get a permit for it retroactively, >> right? >> And you can do that. >> You need to bring me showing it's built for building codes. >> Okay. How do I how do I do that? >> Well, whoever who so if if he built that
building there on site, you're supposed to go through the Florida to the Walton County Building Department. they have to inspect it to make sure it's built to the whole building code for someone to live in. >> So, he's gonna have to go back and go to them to pull a permit and they're have to go do an inspection to showing it's a
valid house. >> Okay. >> The other part though is if it's if it's a valid house, you have to move it 20 feet back from the property lines. >> The blue building. >> Yeah. >> And we are talking about the same building right here. I'm talking about
the dark blue building. One with the high pitch roof. >> The one over to the far left. >> This one over here to the far left. >> Correct. >> That's okay. >> You just have to tear it down and move it. Because here's the thing. It's not
20 ft from the property line, which is what the Florida code for us says. Your setbacks are for a front yard. Has to be at least 20 ft >> away from the from the parking lot. I mean,
>> you could hire a house mover, but they're probably going to be more expensive than what the property what the building >> permit foundation or poles. >> I'm not sure. >> So, the house at least needs to be 20 ft away from from the rideway. Okay. Then
you got to go pull the permits from the Walt County Building Department for them to come and do inspection so that they can say yes, it is built to forward a building code where someone can live in it. >> Would it not be fortuitous for her to contact the building and get it
inspected first before you go through the expense of trying to move it? >> Yes. >> But I mean, well, it comes down to this. If it's sitting on a slab or it can just be slid, >> then yes. If it's actually on a permanent foundation or similar to a
pole barn where the holes in the ground, >> they're going to have to move it all the way and then place it in the ground for the building code. >> Okay. So, >> it depends on how he built the property. >> Okay. >> So, and our big concern is it's actually
built correctly. So that >> right >> we know we get hurricanes through all the time when we get tornadoes >> right >> I don't want to see your brother in the middle of it wind comes through and it collapses on top of it >> right >> or if the electric the electrical lines are not properly done and he it burns.
>> Does he have does he have water up there? >> Um I don't think so. >> Okay. Because >> because I know they bring in jugs of water. >> Say if he has a toilet then he has to have either connect to the sewer line >> or has to have a septant tank. Right.
>> You can't you just can't allow the raw sewage to go on the ground. >> Correct. >> Also, if it's not doesn't have portable water is in viol that's another violation as well. Um >> and actually we actually have an ordinance says you have to have mandatory water. It's you have to have
mandatory utilities. Either you have to have a well and you have to have electricity. >> Is there any electricity running to the property now? >> Uh they have generators. >> Okay. All righty. Living off the grid, huh? >> I guess. >> Okay. Do you have anything else you wish
to present, Miss Thompson? >> Can you have your brother come in and sit down and talk to me? Because basically, it's so I received the email from him regarding the request for the temp permit. And when I responded back to that email, basically wanting information why he's doing it, I never got a response back.
>> Okay. he really needs to come in here and with you and sit down and talk with me and our director so that we can get everything on the same page so that he can have this in compliance. I would strongly suggest
the the little grave building or whatever that's number 141. Truthfully, if you can get that one where it shows it's built for human occupancy and you should move that back 20 feet,
that could be a primary structure. But first, we would have to know it's actually built for humanoy. >> Okay? >> And then the other ones could be accessory structures, but then like I said, we still have to move to meet setbacks.
Okay. >> I hate to say before you now with any city or county before you do anything on your property, it's always best to reach out to the governing body that they're you're residing in to find out what you can and truly cannot do on the property. Yes,
understand it's your property. >> I didn't even know that was even built until it was already built. Um, is there a still an ongoing fine from the previous case or has that been resolved? >> I don't think it has. Give me one second. >> Just want to make sure she has you have
all the facts of what's going on with this. Okay. Is that a bathtub in front of the >> I think so. Or no, I think it's a >> Oh, is it a utility uh like a wheelbarrow? >> No, I think it's like a hot tub or
>> Oh, goodness. >> Yeah, that's Well, that definitely needs to be moved behind the fence because that's an attractive nuisance for a child. Jesse, can you borrow you for a second? The analysis,
>> was the um the other violations, was it the same violation or was it different? Do you or do you recall >> the um it was the RV someone was living in at the time and um it was commun stuff. >> Okay. Was
it the estate of Daniel Hering? >> Yes. Yes. Yeah, it actually still has ongoing violation. >> Okay. And what would we >> Unfortunately, the fine is up to $79,725
and go up goes up $75 per day. >> Okay. >> All right. Miss Thompson, do you have anything further you wish for the court to consider? >> I don't know what to do at this point. >> I understand. The main thing I need you
to do is to stay in contact with Officer Strong because this can be resolved. We just need to work on it and I understand your frustration and your your inability to do handle with your but brother. So
don't let this eat you up. Okay. All right, officer Stron. Any further? Anything further? >> No, ma'am. I mean, they cleared everything off right now >> that would stop everything >> right
>> on that one. Um, and then we can try to because if they brought everything away it took to bring the everything in compliance for this one, we could try to apply it to the other one also >> to get the fines reduced.
>> Okay. >> As much as we could, but >> Okay. Um, Mr. Townson, is there any pro any programs that you know of that could assist her with um getting this stuff removed? the same as the ones we talked
about earlier. CRA CRA and >> yeah, the problem uh that you the first thing you need to address is going to be the building code violations and that would be Walton County with their uh propert with their planning department to see what it's going to take to get a permit. If those structures are
permittable, if they're not occup if they're not for human occupancy, they can be moved 20 feet back from the property. However, you couldn't have anyone occupying them on a permanent or occupying them at all. Um, and they can't occupy the RV without having a
main structure that is uh suitable for human occupancy. Okay, I know it gets confusing. Um, but that's basically and the the reason for that is to protect the homeowner from being in a in a structure that's not safe and sound and
may um may come into that's not me. Um, I apologize. I don't It's our It's the um the conference call thing that's um that's doing the phone.
>> You can just hit the hang up button. There should be a hang up button. You just hit it. >> There you go. I think that was it. There you go. >> Be fine. >> Okay. Uh I'm going to render my ruling, Miss Thompson. And it's very important
that you and your brother u communicate with officer strong because uh the communication is key in this and just make sure you're communicating with him uh you are because he can work with you and I will give him the authority to extend the matter beyond that but he has
to see and has to show to me that you guys are working on it diligently. Okay. All right. So I'm going to render my order. I do find that uh this case of 25 202500000094 city of Definiac Springs uh versus Timothy Herring and Sherry Thompson. Uh,
this case has come before me in a public hearing before um the city ma the special magistrate for the city of Dunc Springs, Walton County, Florida on Thursday, January 15, 2026 after due notice to the respondent and special magistrate having heard testimony under oath and received evidence and heard
argument hereby issues the following finding of fact conclusion of law and order as follows. The respondent, Timothy Herro and Sherry Thompson, whose mailing address is 141 Morris Drive, Definiac Springs, Florida 32433, is the owner of the real property described and
also known as 141 Morris Drive. Definiac Springs, Florida, Walton County, parcel number uh 253, November 1 1907001-6210. The real property listed above is located and exists within the city of Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida. and the respondents as or as
owners of the real property are responsible for maintaining the same in accordance with the code of ordinances of the city of Ephiac Springs. All notices have been made in accordance with uh Florida statutes chapter 162.12 conditions presently exist on the property that are in violation of the
city's code section chapter 5-13 and permit which is the permits on the buildings. Chapter 5, section 523, structures unfit for human occupancy. And chapter um 18-44, R2, multiple family residential district
and conditions constituting a nuisance or serious threat to the public health, safety, and welfare within the meaning of Florida Florida statutes chapter 162.06 subchapter 4. This has been a lawfully constituted code enforcement proceeding convened pursuant to chapter
162 part one of Florida statutes in the city of Definiac Springs chapter 18 land development code. Uh I have special I have jurisdiction over this subject matter and over the respondents. I hereby order that you are to uh bring it
into compliance within um 120 days from the date of this order or a fine of uh $100 a day will start to acrue on the property. Also, I'm giving Officer Strong the authority to extend that 120
days upon a showing of good faith compliance um and effort by you and your brother. Again, I can't I can't emphasize enough how much communication is is extremely important. Okay? So, keeping contact
with officer Strong, Miss Thompson, I really appreciate you showing up today and being here. Um, you'd be surprised at how many do not. And I appreciate any efforts that you make toward correcting this. Okay.
And I wish you luck. You're quite welcome. As soon as he finishes signing this, we'll give you a copy of the order and you'll have it in uh any questions that you have, just contact Officer Strong. Okay. This one Kingdom Christ
Church Kirby, is this this is on Quebec Avenue. Is it pronounced correctly? Quebec or is it cubic? >> Cubec. Quebec. >> Yeah, I hear one of those I hear a lot of residents call it cubic. And I just didn't know what >> Yeah, I call it Quebec. >> I do too, but I I just didn't know if
there was a reason for it to be >> another uh pronunciation. >> I'm not sure. That's just the way I speak. I've been told I have an accent. So >> Oh, I do too. >> Got the best accent in the world. Southern one.
>> All have been called. No one's present. >> Thank you. You may present your case. >> Finding a fact hearing case number 20250000166. Violations chapter 14 section 14-3. Violations enumerated. Address is at 561 East Lost Avenue. Parcel number is 253
November 1 1919 0701 080 0. The property owner is Triumph the Church in Kingdom of God in Christ. Exhibit one shows the properties inside the city limits and subject to the code of ordinances.
Exhibit two inspection on 723 2025 under chapter 14 section 143. Basically it states that we can't have dead trees just laying on the property. >> Right. >> Um this property actually this tree actually runs through two parcels. I
have reached out to both um property owners to at least try to remove one from one side or one from the other. Exhibit 3 inspection on 92 of 2025. Exhibit four inspection on 1010 of 2025.
Exhibit 5 1113 of 2025. Exhibit 6 on 12 of 2026. And today's date of inspection on 115 of 2026. July 20 July the 23rd, 2025. While conducting code enforcement inspections,
I observed violations at the property located at 561 East Los Avenue. Photographs were taken to document conditions on the property. A review of internal case files confirmed. There was no active or ongoing code case. A search of the Walton County Property Appraisers
Office records confirmed that the property is located within the city limits of the Phoenix Springs and is owned by the Triumph, the Church, and Kingdom of God in Christ. >> Is there a structure on the property or is it just a lot? >> Just a lot. >> Okay, thank you. >> The following is reserved. A dead oak
tree is laying on the property extending from this parcel onto a joining parcel. July 29th, 2025, a warning notice was appeared and mailed to the property owner. September the 2nd, 2025, a follow-up inspection was conducted. The violations remained. September the 9th,
2025, a notice of violations appeared and mailed to the property owner. October the 10th, 2025, an inspection was conducted. The violations remained. A notice of violation was appeared and mailed to the property owner. October 13th, 2025, inspection was um conducted. The violations remained. The notice of
violation was prepared and sent to the property owner via certified mail and a return receipt requested. Certified mail was 9589-0710 52700291-467497. It was delivered January the 2nd 2026. A notice
inspection was conducted. The violations remained. the notice of violation. Correction, a notice of hearing was prepared and sent to the property owner. Certified mail with a turn receipt. The notice of hearing on was posted at city hall and the owner's property. Certified
mail was 9589-0710-52700781 019496 and is still being attempted to be delivered. January the 15th, 2026. Fix the property on the day of the hearing. property shows improvement and is in compliance. >> Did you have any contact with anyone from the
>> No, no. From this property, no. The actual adjacent property, yes, they've been trying to um come up with the funds to at least cut their half. I had suggested they reached out to the other property owner and maybe paying, you
know, coming up with a group plan of cutting the whole whole tree up and each diving it up. But they had no luck getting out of the of the other property owner. >> So, do you know who who >> No, ma'am. I actually have no idea which property owner cut the tree up. >> Okay. Thank you.
>> Um, exhibit 9's a letter of violation. Exhibit 10, another letter of violation. Um, exhibit 11, a letter of violation. Exhibit 12, letter of violation, certified mail. Um, exhibit 13, letter of violation tracking showing is delivered. Exhibit 14, notice of
hearing. 15 of hearing tracking showing is still being attempted. Um recommendation find um that the property located at 50 561 East Lost Avenue, Defense Springs, Florida, partial number 253 November 1 1919070
00001 080 is located within the municipality limits of the city of the Phoenix Springs and is subject to the city code of ordinances. Please find or find that the property was in violation of chapter 14 section 14-3 of the city of defiing code of ordinances. Find that
the proper notice of the hearing was provided to the respondent in accordance with the capable requirements. Find any future um occurrence of the same violation by the respondent shall constitute a repeat violation and may be subject to enhanced enforcement actions.
That'll be the end of my testimony. I accept your testimony into the record as well as your PowerPoint presentation, your photographs and other evidence. Is there anyone here to speak on behalf of the triumph, the church and kingdom of God in Christ? Hearing none and seeing
none and the halls have pre previously been called, I will render a decision. Case number 2025116, City of Definiac Springs, uh, as a petitioner, triumph the church and kingdom of God in Christ as a respondent. This case has come before me
um on the city of DeFi Springs, Walton County, Florida on Thursday, January 15, 2026 after due notice to the respondent and the special magistrate having heard testimony under oath received evidence and having heard argument hereby issues as finding a fact conclusion of law and orders as follows. The respondent,
Triumph, the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, whose mailing address is 375 Quebec Avenue, Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida, is the owner of the real property described and also known as 561 East Sloth Avenue, Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida. Partial
ID number 253, November 1 1919700800. The real property listed above is located and existing within the city of Definak Springs, Walton County, Florida. respondent as the owner of the real property is responsible for maintaining the same in accordance with the code of ordinances of the city of Defunia Springs. All required notices have been
made in accordance with Florida statute 162.12 and county code conditions existed on the property uh in violation of the city code section chapter 14143 violations enumerated such conditions constituting a nuisance and serious threat to public health, safety, and
welfare within the meaning of Florida statutes chapter 162.06 06 subchapter 4. This has been a lawfully constituted code enforcement proceeding convened pursuant to chapter 162 part one of Florida statutes and chapter 18 of the city of Definiac Springs Land
Development Code. Special magistrate has jurisdiction over the subject matter and over the respondent. I find that violations did exist on the subject property but have been remedied. No fine in this matter shall be imposed. However, future offenses of the same nature as cited in this case will be
considered repeat offenses and subject to fines as such. Officer Strong, you may present your next case. Going please. >> Halls have been called. No one is present. >> Thank you. You may present your case.
>> This is a non-compliance hearing. Case number 2024 00000014. Violations chapter 14, section 14-3. Violations enumerated. Address is at 29 South First Street, partial number 25 through November 1 1919 560 00002000.
Property owners Roland Lane Livingston. Exhibit one shows properties inside the city limits sub code of ordinances. Exhibit two was on the inspection 8:15 of 2024. Exhibit 3 is an inspection on one two of 2026.
go back to the f uh the one previous if you don't mind please. I was looking down. Okay, very good. Thank you. >> Um and then today's date um 115 of 2026. Um the only difference really between the
um date from 8:15 2024 and today's date there is now a dead tree also laying on the property. >> Okay. Um case was presented at the special master hearing on August 15, 2024 at which time the property wasn't found in violation of chapter 14 section 14-3 of
the code city code special order the property to be brought to compliance within 30 days of the date of the hearing. Period of comply will result in a civil fine of $50 a day until the property is brought in compliance. Um on July the 2nd 2026 the property was reinspected and remained out of compliance. A notice of hearing was
prepared and sent certified mail. This hearing was also posted on subject property and at city hall. Surf for mail was um 9589071052700 0781 019489 is still being attempted.
>> Uh let me uh you said June 2nd of 2026. Should it be January 2nd? >> Yes, ma'am. Sorry. January 2nd. >> Thank you. >> Um as of January 15, 2026, the property continued to remain out of compliance. um is affidavit of non-compliance,
notice of hearing, certified mail, tracking showing that is still being attempted. Um please find that the this property is in or is not in compliance. Please find that the properness of hearing was given to the respondent. a final accurate of
$24,300 between 916 of 2024 and 115 of 2026 and should be assessed and continued $50 a day until the property is part of compliance. >> I'll get into my testimony. >> And this property doesn't have a main structure on it. >> No, ma'am. Just that little tin shed. >> Okay, very good. Um, as into your
testimony, I accept your testimony into the record as well as your affidavit of non-compliance and your PowerPoint presentation. Is there anyone here on behalf of Roland Livingston? Uh seeing none and hearing none, I'll render my decision. Um this cause is case number
24 202414 personal ID number 253 November 1 19195600000002000 0. Um the city of Defunia Springs is a petitioner and Roland Land Livingston is a respondent. This calls originally came to be heard before me in the city of
Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida. um and was on January, excuse me, August 15th of 2024 after due notice to the parties at which time I heard testimony under oath, received evidence and being otherwise fully advised in the premises and ordering certain corrective
action and on January 15, 2026 after due notice to the respondent and special magistrate having heard testimony under oath received evidence and heard argument hereby issues the finding of fact conclusion of law and orders as follows. The respondent was required to take corrective action to honor before
Monday, September 16, 2024, failing which a fine of $50 a day would begin to acrue as specifically set forth in the finding of facts and conclusion of law from August 15, 2024. An affidavit of non-compliance has been filed by the code enforcement officer strong which
affidavit certifies that under oath that as of Friday, January 2nd, 2026, a required corrective action has not been taken as ordered. also that he has uh reinspected it on January 15th to see that it is still not in compliance. Respondent was not in compliance on or
before the required action required action date within the findings of law conclusions and order and he has not contacted the uh code enforcement officer for any extensions and on to uh as of Thursday August 154. It is hereby ordered that respondent pay to the city
of Deumiac Springs, Florida, the petitioner a fine in the amount of $24,300 for the fine proven herein and above and which shall continue in the amount of $50 per day for each and every day that the violation exists on the described property and the respondent is further ordered to contact the city of Defin
Springs code enforcement office to arrange for reinspection of the subject property uh to verify compliance with this order. A certified copy of this order may be recorded and once recorded shall constitute a lean against the above described property and all other real and personal property owned by the
by the respondent pursuant to Florida statutes chapter 162 done in order this 15th day of January 2026 in Phoenix Springs Walton County Florida. Thank you, sir. You may call your next case. Thank
The halls have been called. No one is present. >> Thank you. You may begin your case. Non-compliance hearing case number 2024 0000194 or correction one 1291 129 violations chapter 14 section 14-2 nuisances in
hazardous or unsanitary conditions or requirements address is 251 West Berdick Avenue partial number is 253 November 1 1919140000 Bravo 0120 Property owners Wilson
Antonio Rodriguez This exhibit one shows the properties inside the city limits of and subject to the code of ordinances. Exhibit two was an inspection on 320 2025 for the structure. Exhibit on three inspection one two of
2026. >> Is that leaning literally leaning or is that the angle of the photograph? >> I think it's slightly leaning. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Cuz here's the next one. >> Okay. Exhibit four of 115 of 2026. Exhibit five. The case was presented at
the special master hearing on March the 20th, 2025 in which time the property was found in violation of chapter 14 section 14-2 of the city code. The special master ordered the property to be brought to compliance within 90 days of the date of the hearing. Failure to comply will result in a civil fine of
$50 or >> should we do >> should be $100. >> Okay. per day until the vi violation is corrected. On January the 2nd, 2026, the property was reinspected and remained out of compliance. A notice hearing was prepared and sent to certified mail. The
notice hearing was also posted on the subject property and at city hall. Certified mail was 9589 0710-5270 0781 019472 is still being attempted to be delivered
as of January the 15th 2026 the property continued to remain out of compliance six is affidavit non-compliance seven's notice of hearing eight's notice of hearing tracking showing still being attempted Movement
nine. Please find that this property is not in compliance. Please find that the proper notice of the hearing was given to the respondent. A fine occurred of $21,100 between um 618 of 2025 and January the 15th of
2026 and should be assessed and continue $100 per day until the property is brought in compliance. That is that is the end of my testimony. >> Okay. accept your testimony into the record as well as your um the previous order and your other um your case report with the exception that we change the
$50 to $100. I have confirmed with the order that it is $100 per day for the record. Um is there anyone here to speak on behalf of Wilson or Antoni Rodriguez? Seeing none and hearing none, I I'll render my order. I find that in case
number 2024129 parcel number 253 November 1 1919140000B is in Bravo 0120. Um this was the city of Definiac Springs versus Wilson and Antonio Rodriguez.
This cause originally came before me to be heard within the city of Definia Springs, Walton County, Florida on a hearing commencing Thursday, March 20th, 2025 after due notice to the parties at which time the special magistrate heard testimony under oath, received evidence and received and otherwise being fully
advised in the premises and ordering a certain corrective action and on today's date of January 15, 2026 after due notice to the respondent and special magistrate having heard testimony under oath received evidence and heard her argument hereby issues is finding a fact
conclusion of law and orders as follows. The respondent was required to take certain action corrective action on or before Wednesday June 18th of 2025 while failing which a fine of $100 per day would begin to acrue as specifically set forth in the findings of facts and
conclusion of law from the March uh 20th 2025 hearing date. An affidavit of non-compliance has been filed by the city code enforcement officer, officer Strong, which affidavit certifies it under oath that as of Friday, January 22nd, 2026, the required corrective
action had not been taken and a reinspection was done today's date of January 15, 2026 and still no compliance. Respondent has not complied on or before the required corrective action date within the finding of fact conclusion law and order heard on March 20th, 2025. So, it's hereby ordered that
respondent pay to the city of Definiac Springs, Florida, a fine in the amount of $21,100 for the fines proven here and above and which continue in the amount of $100 per day for each and every day that the violation continues to exist on the above described property and that the
respondent is further ordered to contact the city of Defunia Springs Code Enforcement Office to arrange for a reinspection of the property to verify compliance of this order once it's brought into compliance. A certified copy of this order may be recorded and once recorded shall constitute a lean against the above described property and
all other real and personal property owned by the respondent pursuant to Florida's check statutes chapter 162 done in order this 15th day of January 2026 in defiac springs Walton County Florida and this is our last case.
>> Oh, one more. Okay, very good. Hall's been called. No one is present. Okay. You may begin your case, please. >> Non-compliance hearing case number 2024 000207 violation is chapter 14 section 14-2 nuisances and hazardous or unsanitary
conditions general requirements in chapter 14 section 14-3 violation is enumerated. Address is 150 Simol drive. Partial number is 343 November 1 1919 030 00 echo 0011 property owners Andrews and
Bowlinger LLC. Exhibit one shows the properties inside the city limits in subject to the code of ordinances. Exhibit two is the inspection on 116 of 2025. It's the um three trailers and the
overgrowth around them. Exhibit on one two of 2026. Um no change condition. All three still there. >> Is this a property that has um >> other mobile homes on it? Yes, ma'am. It's the mobile home park there off of or off of um South 19th Street.
>> Okay. And is this uh is it licensed I mean is it zoned as a multi Okay. >> Yes ma'am. >> I can't remember if we had it's a licensed um um >> trailer park >> trailer park. see one that is Andrews. >> Yes. >> Okay.
>> And after after the um original first hearing, um I met with um their um foreman, I guess is what he was. And they stated they're they're going to remove the trailers. >> Okay.
>> And then today's date, um 115 of 2026, still there. No, no change of conditions. >> Okay. >> Exhibit five. Case was presented at the special magic hearing on January 16th of 2025 in which the property was found of the and found in violation of chapter 14
section 14-2 and chapter 14 section 14-3 of the city code. Special mastery ordered the property brought to compliance um within 120 days of the hearing date. very comply would result in a civil fine of once again it should be $100 a day
>> um until the violation is corrected on January 2nd 2026 the property was reinspected and remained out of compliance. A notice of hearing was um prepared and sent certified mail. Um the notice of hearing was also posted on the property and at city hall. Um certified
mail was 9589 0710-5270 0781 019465 and it's still being attempted as of January 156. The property continued to remain out of compliance.
Affidav affidavit of non-compliance. Um exhibit seven's notice of hearing. Exhibit eight's notice of hearing tracking showing it's being attempted. Um exhibit 9 recommendations. Please find this property is not in compliance. Please find that the proper notice of the hearing was given to the respondent.
a fine accured of $23,900 between 519 to 2025 and 115 of 2026 and should be assessed and continue $100 per day until the property is brought into compliance. >> That'll be the end of my testimony. >> Okay, I accept your testimony into the
record with the correction of the $100 uh per day from the 50 in your in your report. Is there anyone here to uh to testify on behalf of Andrews and Bolinger LLC? Hearing none and seeing none, I'll render my decision. Uh, also for the record, Mr. Andrews, Luke
Andrews, his father, u his, his grandmother has been a client, but he has not, and we waved, um, waved any conflict at the last hearing. Okay. This case number 2024, uh, 207, petitioner, city of Definia Springs Code Enforcement, and Andrews and Bolinger
LLC, a Florida LLC is a respondent. Parcel number 343 November 1 1919 03 0000 echo 000011 and um this is at located at 150 Simol drive a trailer
park uh off of 19th Street at 57. >> Okay. Uh this cause originally came before me um in the city of Definiti at Walton County, Florida at a hearing commencing on January 16th uh 2025 after due notice to the parties at which time I heard testimony under oath received
evidence and being otherwise fully advised in the premises and ordering certain corrective action and on Thursday January 156 after due notice to respondent special magistrate having heard uh testimony under oath received evidence and heard argument hereby issues a finding of fact
conclusion law and order as follows. The respondent was required to take certain corrective action on or before Monday, May 19th, 2025, failing which a fine of $100 per day would begin to acrue and specifically set forth in the finding of fact conclusions of law in order from
the previous hearing of January 16th, 2025. An affidavit of non-compliance has been filed by the code enforcement officer strong which affidavit certifies under oath that as of Janu Friday January 2nd 2026 and of today's date January 15 2026 the required corrective
action had not been taken as ordered respondent has not complied on or before the required corrective action date uh within the finding of facts conclusion of law and order heard on January 16th 2025. It is hereby ordered that respondent pay to the petitioner city of Definiac Springs, Florida, a fine in the
amount of $23,900 for the fine proven herein and which shall continue in the amount of $100 per day for each and every day that the violation exists on the above described property and the respondent is further ordered to contact the city of Phoenix Springs code enforcement office to arrange for a reinspection of the
subject property to verify compliance with this order. A certified copy of this order may be recorded and once recorded shall constitute a lean above against the above described property in any other real property or personal property owned by the respondent pursuance to Florida statutes chapter
162 done in order this the 15th day of January 2026 in defiac springs Walton County Florida. Thank you very much. >> Thank you, ma'am. >> Thank you. >> You may begin your case. Your halls have been called.
>> Yes, ma'am. Non-compliance hearing case number 202500000043 violations chapter 14 section 14-3 violations enumerated address is 117 Quebec Avenue partial numbers 253 November 1 1919070016254
property owner is Cynthia Level one's code showing that the property is inside the city limits and substituted the code of ordinances exhibit This is the section 821 of 2025 overgrowth.
Exhibit 3 and section 12 of 2026. Exhibit four is inspection today's date 115 to 2026. The case was presented at the special management hearing on August the 21st, 2025, at which time this property was found in violation of chapter 14 section
section 14-3 of the city code. The special mastery ordered the property brought into compliance within 30 days of the date of the hearing. Fail to comply will result in a civil fine of $50 per day until the violation is corrected. On January the 2nd, 2026, the
property was reinspected and remained out of compliance. The notice of hearing was prepared and sent to certified mail. The notice of hearing was posted at on subject property and at city hall. Certified mail was 9589 0710-52700
0781 019458 and is still attempted delivery. As of January 15, 2026, the property continued to remain out of compliance. >> Okay. Exhibit six affidavit of non-compliance notice of hearing certify
mail notice of hearing tracking showing still being attempted. Exhibit nine please find that this property is not in compliance. Please find that the proper notice the hear was given to the respondent. A final cured of $5,750
between 922 of 2025 and 115 of 2026 should be assessed and continue these dollars per day until the property is brought in compliance. That'll be the end of my testimony. Have you had any communications from the property owner >> during the year? >> Not not this time with this is the second time we brought it to her. They
actually brought it into compliance. >> It has a fine that's set. Um she called and talked to me. She said that she was out of the country at the time >> at that time and she has not talked to me ever since.
>> And basically it's the overgrowth. Now it's the overgrowth because we were going to have a conversation about how she could basically bring the um documents to lower the the first fine down to by having when she had the structure demolished.
>> Okay. >> But she and she hadn't done that yet, but this is a separate violation. >> Correct. Repeat. >> Yes. >> Okay. Very good. All right. Thank you for your testimony. accept your testimony into the record as well as your PowerPoint presentation uh your report and any other uh evidence that
you have presented for this court. Is there anyone here to testify on behalf of Cynthia Levelvel or the property located at 117 Quebec Avenue Springs, Florida? Hearing none. Seeing none, I'll issue my order. Uh this is case number 250043.
Um petitioner is city of Definiac Springs versus Cynthia Levelvel as a respondent. uh partial number 253 November 1 1919 070 00001-6254 located at 117 Quebec Avenue. This calls
originally came before the special magistrate of the city of Phoenix Springs, Walton County, Florida on a hearing commencing owner about August 21st, 2025 a Thursday after due notice to the parties at which time I heard testimony under oath received evidence and being otherwise fully advised in the
premises and ordering certain corrective action. And on January 6 15, 2026, a Thursday after due notice to the respondent and the special magistrate having heard uh continued testimony under oath, receive evidence and her argument hereby issues its finding of fact. Conclusion law and orders as
follows. The respondent was required to take certain corrective action on or before September 22nd, 2025, a Monday failing which a $50 per day fine would begin to acrue as specifically set forth in the findings of that conclusion of law and order from the hearing on August
uh 21st, 2025. An affidavit of non-compliance has been filed by the code enforcement officer strong which affidavit testifi certifies under oath that as of Friday January 2nd 2026 and January 15 2026 a required corrective action had not been taken as ordered.
Respondent has not complied on or before the required corrective action date within the finding of facts conclusion of law and order heard on August 21st 2025. It is hereby ordered the respondent to pay the petitioner city of Definiac Springs, Walton County, Florida, a fine in the amount of $5,750
for the fine proven here and above and which shall continue in the amount of $50 per day for each and every day that the violation exists on the above described property and that the respondent is further ordered to contact the city of Defunia Springs code enforcement office to arrange for a reinspection of the property to verify compliance with this order. A certified
copy of this order may be recorded and once recorded shall constitute a lean against the above described property and all other real and personal property owned by the respondent pursuant to Florida's chapters statutes chapter 162 done and ordered this 15th day of January 2026
and we have no further cases. We are adjourned. Well, Raphael, this is going to be the last time I hand you an order.