The St. Petersburg City Council will soon receive an updated report concerning code enforcement, particularly focusing on properties damaged by storms.

This update follows recent discoveries by residents unaware of existing code enforcement cases against their properties.

Typically, the number of open code cases hovers between 1,000 and 2,000. However, in January, this figure surged to nearly 11,000, startling many homeowners when they inspected their homes or rental properties.

“To me, that’s the biggest issue. Apparently, there are 11,000 active investigations and citizens don’t know this,” said Matt Weidner.

Kevin Batdorf, President of the Shore Acres Civic Association, commented, “This was a bit of an overreach; it’s like big brother.”

Open cases span across various neighborhoods, including Eden Isles and Shore Acres.

“Disappointment, there’s better ways of handling things,” expressed homeowner Rollo Christensen.

In response, a statement was provided to WLFA by a St. Pete city representative:

“The City’s Codes Compliance Assistance Department has initiated codes cases at properties identified through damage assessments following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This is to monitor compliance with city code and FEMA regulations, ensuring necessary repair permits are obtained, all required inspections are completed to comply with the Florida Building Code, and to safeguard potential buyers from purchasing properties that have been improperly repaired.”

This surge in open cases has left many residents feeling uneasy.

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(Image credit: WFLA)