(PENSACOLA) --- There are consequences for not keeping your property clean here.
The June 2 Code Enforcement meeting addressed four code violations: motor vehicle, excessive weed growth, right-of-way maintenance, and rubbish accumulation.
Vernon Wayne Watson was the first to be found in violation and the only property owner who showed up to defend himself. Code Enforcement Officer Dave Partrick said a citizen complaint in January led him to Watson's home at 1014 North D. St.
"I observed vegetation in excess of 12 inches over the vehicle and a dilapidated fence on the property," Partrick said, adding that certified mail on compliance was sent on January 21. "I conducted multiple follow-ups after the compliance period, with the last one being April 22."
(Photo: Pensacola Code Enforcement picture)
If compliance is not met by June 15, Partrick suggested a daily fine of $50 to Special Magistrate Ralph Peterson, who brought up Watson to the podium.
"I have never seen certified mail come to my house," Watson said, noting it went to a co-trustee of the home.
His answer was not good enough.
(Photo: Vernon Watson testifying at Code Enforcement meeting June 2)
"I am going to overrule the objection," Peterson said, asking Watson if he had questions for Partrick regarding evidence and testimony.
Rather than answering, Watson asked who was complaining about his property.
According to Watson, his neighbors are the cause of the overgrowth since they "push" foliage onto his property. The vehicle, completely covered in overgrowth, "is there because of repair," according to Watson, who said he cannot afford to fix it right now.
Watson's claims prompted a question.
"What efforts have been made to do a clean-up in accordance with the notices?" Peterson asked.
Receiving no answer, Peterson informed Watson that if the matter is not in compliance by June 15, Watson will begin incurring a $50 daily fine.
"Ya'all need to be talking about this and get it taken care of," Peterson said.
The Special Magistrate also deemed other properties in violation of compliance, including "rodents, trash and debris," at 527 Wynnehurst. Officer Ron Boutin found the property in violation on February 9.
(Photo: Pensacola Code Enforcement picture)
"The property remains unchanged, and there is still no contact," Boutin said.
Peterson also ruled that if the property owner does not comply by June 15, they will be fined $50 per day.
Of all the properties, 3473 Bayou Blvd. is the most unsightly, which was cited by Officer Kevin Smith, who said that although they cut the grass and trimmed some of the trees, it has not met all compliance requirements.
(Photo: Pensacola Code Enforcement picture)
105 Berkeley Dr. was the last property considered, with inoperable vehicles and rubbish remaining with the owner, "cleaning up a little bit, but brings more stuff in."
(Photo: Pensacola Code Enforcement picture)
As with other violations, Peterson set a $50 daily fine for all other properties, effective June 15.
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