Approval of Special Magistrate’s Recommended (Amended) Fine Reduction Order dated August 18, 2026 Concerning Property Located at 14604 SW 169th Avenue

Shellretha Griffin, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Gracie M. Griffin, requested a reduction of code enforcement fines concerning property located at 14604 SW 169th Avenue and identified as Booker Park, Lot 21, Block 17, Martin County, Florida (“Subject Property”). The Special Magistrate heard the request on August 18, 2026.

The Subject Property remains out of compliance. As of July 21, 2026, the accrued fines totaled $968,850.00, together with $300.00 in awarded costs, and the fines continue to accrue daily. At the hearing, Ms. Griffin offered to pay $15,000.00 in fines and $600.00 in costs, for a total of $15,600.00. 

The Special Magistrate determined that the proposed reduction would facilitate bringing the Subject Property into compliance at the earliest possible time and recommended that the Village Council approve the reduced amount of $15,600.00, provided that the reduced amount is paid within 60 days of Village Council approval and the Subject Property is brought into compliance within the timeframes and under the conditions set forth in the Special Magistrate’s Recommended Order.  If such conditions are not satisfied, the fine will revert to the previously accrued amount and continue to run until brought into compliance.

While the Special Magistrate may recommend a reduction, the ultimate authority to approve the reduction and its conditions rests with the Village Council. Staff recommends approval. 

Recovery of money from payment of reduced fine

Staff recommends that the Village Council approve a reduction of the code enforcement fines as recommended by the Special Magistrate and authorize the Mayor to sign the attached Final Administrative Order.