Special Magistrate Services for Code Enforcement & School Zone Speed Detection Hearings

The City of Homestead seeks to engage a qualified processional to serve as Special Magistrate to preside over hearings for (1) school zone speed limit violations detected through the City’s Speed Detection Systems, and (2) general code enforcement violations under Chapter 7 of the City Code. The selected vendor will conduct hearings, review evidence, subpoena witnesses, take sworn testimony, and issue legally binding orders to adjudicate violations. Compensation will be based on a per-hearing rate minimum of $125. The City is exploring changing the rate but needs to be done via council approval. Sec. 7-5. - Special master system created; qualifications; terms; removal. (a)All special masters shall be appointed by the city council. Special masters shall be residents, owners of businesses, and/or persons employed within the city limits of the city. A special master should also be a professional in one (1) or more of the following professional careers/areas: (1)Architecture; (2)Engineering; (3)General contractor; (4)Attorney; (5)Planning; (6)Retired law enforcement officer; (7)Real estate. (b)Special masters shall be selected on the basis of experience and interest in the fields of code compliance and shall possess outstanding reputations for civic pride, integrity, responsibility and business or professional ability. (f)Hearings before the special master shall occur no less frequently than once a month, but may occur as often as necessary.