Title
Strategic Initiative 6.1 - Develop Creative Ways to Measure Progress in Code Enforcement (B)
This item outlines the responsibilities of the Special Magistrate for Code Enforcement, proposes an implementation process, and directs the City Attorney to draft required ordinance(s) to implement the Special Magistrate for Code Enforcement.
Explanation
On September 20, 2012, the City Commission approved the Community Development Committee’s recommendation to implement a Special Magistrate for Code Enforcement in lieu of the currently utilized Code Enforcement Board. The following information will outline the proposed responsibilities of the Special Magistrate and propose an implementation process including the sunset of the Code Enforcement Board.
F.S.ch.162, Pt. I, authorizes the City of Gainesville to adopt a Code Enforcement system that gives Special Magistrates designated by the local governing body, the authority to hold hearings and assess fines against violators of city codes and ordinances. The City Commission, by approving the recommendation of the Community Development Committee, has given staff direction to implement such a system in lieu of the Code Enforcement board. The Special Magistrate shall be an attorney, licensed to practice law in the State of Florida, a resident of Alachua County, and in good standing with the Florida Bar Association. The Special Magistrate will have all powers granted under F.S.ch.162, Pt. I, including:
1. Adopt rules for the conduct of its hearings;
2. Subpoena alleged violators and witnesses to its hearings. Subpoenas may be served by the sheriff of the county or police department of the municipality;
3. Subpoena evidence to its hearings;
4. Take testimony under oath; and
5. Issue orders having the force of law to command whatever steps are necessary to bring a violation into compliance.
The following sections of Ch. 2, Div. 8 of the City of Gainesville Code of Ordinance will remain the same except as ...
Click here for full text