07-02-2026 Special Magistrate

The City of Homestead held a Special Magistrate hearing on July 2, 2026, focused primarily on code compliance cases involving property violations such as overgrowth, illegal dumping, non-permitted work, and tree pruning infractions. Numerous cases were reviewed with evidence presented, including photographs and testimony, resulting in findings of violations and imposition of fines ranging from $375 to $1,000 plus administrative fees. Several property owners were granted extensions to obtain permits or come into compliance, with deadlines typically set 30 to 90 days out. The hearing also included discussions on procedural issues related to citation details and burden of proof. Additionally, the City Council discussed various agenda items including amendments to local business tax codes, zoning regulations, and budget adjustments. A notable procurement-related item was the approval of a purchase and sale agreement and a loan not to exceed $1,666,812 for acquiring property at 406 Washington Avenue, with some council members expressing concerns about the investment and lack of immediate public benefit. The council also approved resolutions related to utility fee collections and authorized signatories for financial instruments. Overall, the meeting addressed enforcement of city codes, property compliance, and strategic property acquisition with associated financial commitments.