Development News for Mount Dora, Florida

Unsafe Building at Former Kmart (2751 Old Hwy 441); Owner Working on Repairs Amidst Multiple Violations

A hearing addressed an unsafe building condition at 2751 Old Highway 441, owned by Moore Properties Corporation. The property, formerly a Kmart, has multiple code violations including significant roof damage with holes, a non-operational fire alarm and sprinkler system, and hazardous materials. The city ordered utilities disconnected and established a fire watch. The property owner is addressing the issues, including contracting for hazardous material removal and obtaining an engineering report for roof repairs. The city is recommending 30 days for the property owner to comply before assessing a daily civil fine of $100 per violation group (roof, fire protection system, unsafe conditions). The owner is working on temporary power solutions and awaiting engineering reports for the roof.

Stop Work Order Lifted for 1561 Dorset Drive After Permits Pulled; Fines Reduced

A compliance hearing was held for 1561 Dorset Drive concerning a stop work order issued in February 2025 for rebuilding a screened-in room, truss repair, and re-roofing without a permit. Permits for all work have since been pulled. The owner, Jack Lannier Family Trust, is now in compliance, and the stop work order has been lifted. Fines accrued during the non-compliance period were reduced from an initial calculation of $27,900 to $4,650, with costs of prosecution totaling $1,317.92. The total amount due is $5,967.92, with a payment timeline of 30 days.

Property at 567 Canterbury Court Given 60 Days to Address Overgrowth and Fence Disrepair

A hearing was held for City versus Melinda Kluzer at 567 Canterbury Court concerning an overgrown property and a fence in disrepair. The city issued a courtesy notice in April 2025, followed by a notice of violation in February 2026 and a notice of hearing in May 2026. The property owner, Ms. Kluzer, has experienced financial hardships, including bankruptcy. She has been granted a 60-day continuance to address the fence repair and obtain quotes for lawn service. The weeds have been cut, but the property is becoming overgrown again, and the fence remains in disrepair. If compliance is not met within 60 days, a $50 per day fine will accrue, beginning July 4th. A compliance hearing is scheduled for August 6th.

Hurley Family Partnership Cited for Business Tax Receipt, Sign, and Building Permit Violations; 60-Day Continuance Granted

A hearing was held for City versus Philip Eugene Estate and Laura Frost at 354 North Highland Street regarding operating without a business tax receipt and a sign installed without a permit. The property owner, David Hurley, has submitted applications for business tax receipts and permits for the interior rebuild, which are currently under review. A stop work order was issued for the interior rebuild due to unmet code requirements. The city requested a finding of violation and a 60-day continuance for the property owner to come into compliance. The violations include the sign, tax application, and building permit for the interior rebuild. The property was previously a racetrack and has been converted to office space.