§ 2-505A. Special magistrates; appointment, qualifications.

(a)

The city council may appoint one or more special magistrates who shall have the authority to hold hearings, assess fines against violators of the codes and ordinances of the city, reduce fines in whole or in part, and otherwise exercise the powers of a municipal code enforcement board as provided in F.S. ch. 162, pt. I, as and to the extent provided in this article.

(b)

A special magistrate shall be a resident of the city who is qualified to be appointed as a member of the board.

(c)

A special magistrate shall be appointed to a term of three years and may be reappointed.

(d)

A special magistrate shall serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses as determined by the city commission.

(e)

Regular and special hearings before a special magistrate may be held as often as necessary. All hearings shall be open to the public.

(f)

Minutes and records of hearings before a special magistrate shall be kept and maintained by the code enforcement secretary in the manner and to the extent required by law. The city shall provide necessary and reasonable clerical and administrative support to enable a special magistrate to perform his or her duties. A special magistrate shall not be authorized to hire or use the services of any person except those provided by the city to assist him or her in the performance of his or her duties.

(g)

A special magistrate shall be subject to removal for cause.

(Ord. No. 1021, 4-13-09; Ord. No. 1062-2014 , § 7, 5-13-14)

State law reference

Presentation of cases, F.S. § 162.07