Here are the key details surrounding the proposed changes:
Key Details of the Proposal
- Transition to a Special Magistrate: Under the proposed ordinance, the volunteer citizen board—which currently handles unresolved property maintenance, garbage, and zoning code violations—would be replaced entirely by a Special Magistrate system. Former Lakeland City Attorney Joe Mawhinney was appointed as a Special Magistrate on October 5.
- Change to the Appeals Process: Currently, residents can contest an initial hearing officer’s decision within 10 days to be reviewed by the citizen Code Enforcement Board. Removing the board would eliminate that intermediate step, making circuit court the sole formal option to appeal a Special Magistrate’s final order.
- Discussion & Concerns: During an agenda study meeting, Commissioner Ashley Troutman raised concerns about whether a single magistrate would offer residents sufficient flexibility to correct issues when acting in good faith. City legal representatives noted that code enforcement staff will continue to recommend flexibility during proceedings.
Timeline & Next Steps
- First Reading: Conducted on Monday, October 19, 2026 (no vote was taken).
- Public Hearing & Final Vote: Scheduled for November 2, 2026.
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