Code Enforcement Hearing 4/30/2026

This was a City of Hemet Code Enforcement Hearing held on April 30, 2026, concerning the Ramona Motel located at 1120 East Florida Avenue. The hearing focused on the fire damage and subsequent safety and code violations at the motel, including structural damage, electrical hazards, and a hazardous gas line configuration. City code enforcement officers and building officials testified about inspections, red tagging of units, and the issuance of notices of substandard building due to unsafe conditions such as lack of hot and cold running water and gas leaks. The property owner and operator discussed repairs, permits, and interactions with Southern California Gas Company, which had temporarily shut off and later restored gas service. The hearing included testimony from a licensed plumber who performed gas line repairs and pressure testing. The city emphasized the need for a special housing inspection permit before reopening and noted that no formal repairs or permits had been completed at the time. The hearing officer indicated that a formal written ruling would be issued after taking the matter under submission.