Loading...
CLB Minutes 03/19/2014 CONTRACTORS LICENSING BOARD Minutes March 19 , 2014 March 19,2014 MINUTES OF THE COLLIER COUNTY CONTRACTORS' LICENSING BOARD MEETING March 19, 2014 Naples, Florida LET IT BE REMEMBERED, that the Collier County Contractors' Licensing Board, having conducted business herein, met on this date at 9:00 AM in REGULAR SESSION in Administrative Building "F," 3rd Floor, Collier County Government Complex, Naples, Florida, with the following Members present: Vice Chair: ' Thomas Lykos Members: Michael Boyd Ronald Donino Terry Jerulle Richard Joslin Kyle Lantz Gary McNally Robert Meister Excused: Patrick White, Chairman ALSO PRESENT: Michael Ossorio — Supervisor, Contractors' Licensing Office Colleen Greene, Esq. —Assistant County Attorney Kevin Noell, Esq. —Assistant County Attorney James F. Morey, Esq. —Attorney for the Contractors' Licensing Board Ian Jackson—Licensing Compliance Officer 1 March 19,2014 Any person who decides to appeal a decision of this Board will need a record of the proceedings and may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the Appeal is to be based. I. ROLL CALL: Vice Chairman Thomas Lykos called the meeting to order at 9:03 AM and read the procedures to be followed to appeal a decision of the Board. Roll call was taken; a quorum was established, and eight voting members were present. IL AGENDA—ADDITIONS,DELETIONS,OR CHANGES: Change to Agenda Order: Vice Chairman Lykos noted the following change: • Case#204-04: Richard J. Ranck, d/b/a "RV Lanai of SW Florida,Inc.," (Item VIII—(A), "Public Hearings") will be heard following Item V, "Discussion." III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Richard Joslin moved to approve the Agenda as amended. Gary McNally offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES—FEBRUARY 19, 2014: Richard Joslin moved to approve the Minutes of the February 19, 2014 meeting as submitted. Gary McNally offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8— 0. V. DISCUSSION (None) VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Note: With reference to the case heard under Section VIII, the individuals who testified were first sworn in by the Attorney for the Board.) A. Case 2014-04: Richard J. Ranck, d/b/a "RV Lanai of SW Florida,Inc." Respondent, Richard J. Ranck, and his wife, Mary Ellen ("Molly")Ranck, were present and were not represented by counsel. Vice Chairman Thomas Lykos briefly outlined the order of the proceedings to be followed: 2 • March 19,2014 • Open the Public Hearing; • Swear the witnesses; • Accept any evidence from the parties; • The County will present its "Opening Statement;" • The Respondent will present his/her"Opening Statement;" • The County will next present its"Case in Chief;" • The Respondent will present his/her defense; • The County may offer any rebuttal. That concludes the Public Hearing process. • The Board will close the Public Hearing and receive instructions from its attorney, which is similar to a"Charge" given to a Jury, setting out the parameters on which the Board's Members will base their decision. • During deliberations,the Board can request additional information and clarification(s) from the parties. • The Board will decide two different issues: o First, whether the Respondent is guilty of the offense as charged in the Administrative Complaint. o A vote will be taken on the matter. o Second, if the Respondent is found guilty,the Board will decide the Sanctions to be imposed. • The Board's Attorney will advise the Board of the Sanctions that may be imposed and the factors to be considered. • The Board will discuss Sanctions and vote. • The Chair will orally report the decision of the Board. Ian Jackson, Collier County License Compliance Officer,requested to enter the packet of information provided to the Board Members for Case 2014-04 into evidence. Kyle Lantz moved to approve opening the Public Hearing in Case No. 2014-04: The Board of County Commissioners, Collier County Contractors'Licensing Board vs. Richard J. Ranck, d/b/a "RV Lanai of SW Florida,Inc."License No.: 34532 (Aluminum Contractor), and entering the information packet into evidence as County's Exhibit "1." Richard Joslin offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. Ian Jackson presented the County's "Opening Statement:" • Collier County was prepared to show through documented facts and sworn testimony that the Respondent violated Collier County Ordinance #90-105, as amended, Section 4.1.18: "Proceeding on any job without obtaining applicable permits or inspections from the City's Building and Zoning Division or the County's Building Review and Permitting Department." 3 • March 19,2014 • The Respondent also violated Collier County Ordinance#90-105, as amended, Section 4.1.2: "Contracting to do any work outside the scope of his/her competency as listed on his/her competency card and as defined in this Article, or as restricted by the Contractors'Licensing Board." Vice Chairman Lykos asked the Respondent to present his "Opening Statement." Mary Ellen ("Molly") Ranck replied: • I acknowledge that we did what you said we did. • The Permit had been applied for; however, because of various corrections that had to be done, and things that took a great amount of time (i.e., surveys), there was a big delay that the customer could not stand. • They wanted the horse shoe pits covered with a roof prior to the start of "season," and they pushed us really, really hard to just do it—so we did. • It was unfortunate, but that was the way it happened. • We did dig the little footers for the posts and we're not licensed to do concrete work. • That's my statement. Ian Jackson presented the County's "Case in Chief" • The case was referred on October 23, 2013 by Collier County Building Inspector John Serenko concerning an unpermitted aluminum structure at 1000 Wiggins Pass Road. • A site visit was conducted. Two aluminum structures were under construction while the Permit was under review. • Mrs. Ranck was contacted and advised of the "Stop Work" Order. She was also advised the Permit must be issued before the work could continue. • October 29, 2013: A "Correction" letter was sent to the Contractor by the Building Department o Issue: The structure was located within the required 8-foot rear yard setback • November 5, 2013: Permit was rejected. • December 3, 2013: Corrections were submitted. • December 11, 2013: Permit was under review and a second"Correction" letter was sent to the Contractor • December 31, 2013: Permit remained rejected. A second rejection letter was sent to the Contractor. • January 13, 2014: Corrections had not been made • January 29, 2014: Email was sent to Contractor asking to contact Investigator • January 31, 2014: Unable to contact Contractor 4 March 19,2014 • February 3, 2014: Met with Susan Jackson, Manager of the Lake San Marino RV Resort,who provided contract information and payment records. Ms. Jackson stated she had been unable to contact the Contractor. Ms. Jackson indicated she will hire another Contractor to pull Permit and complete construction. • February 3, 2014: Unable to contact Contractor. No activity on Permit application. Notice of Hearing was prepared and sent via certified mail to RV Lanai of SW Florida, Inc. • The contract noted RV Lanai of SW Florida, Inc. was to perform concrete work(i.e., dig footers and install posts)which was outside the scope of the license held by Mr. Ranck and constituted a second violation. • As of March 19, 2014, no corrections had been submitted and there was no activity concerning the Permit application. Vice Chairman Lykos asked Mrs. Ranck if there were any details she wanted to share with the Board on behalf of her husband. Mary Ellen Ranck replied there were no details to add. She explained that, due to her husband's illness and slow recovery, she has become his sole caregiver and has not been involved in their aluminum business. She further stated they have not done any business since the end of 2013 and do not intend to pursue new work in the future. Ian Jackson presented the County's "Closing Statement:" • The Respondent has acknowledged the violations cited in both Counts of the Administrative Complaint; the County's case was closed. The Respondent's "Closing Statement:" • Mrs. Ranck asked the Board to consider that she and her husband have been in business for over fifteen years in Collier County without an incident and have also operated in Lee County without incident. Richard Joslin asked if the job had been completed. Ian Jackson responded when he spoke with the manager of the Lake San Marino RV Resort last month, Susan Jackson said she was in the process of hiring a new Contractor. There has been no change to the site which was photographed during his initial visit in October, 2013. • Contract amount: $5,972.00 • Deposit paid to RV Lanai: $3,165.16 • Balance remaining: $2,807 Investigator Jackson offered the County's services to Ms. Jackson if recovery of funds became an issue, i.e., if the new Contractor could not complete the required work for the remaining balance. He stated he has not heard from a representative of the Lake San Marino RV Resort. He noted the issue of set-back remains and the horse shoe playing field may be relocated on the property along with the aluminum structures already in place. 5 March 19,2014 Michael Ossorio explained the State's"Aluminum Contractor's License" is a Specialty License that allows concrete work to be performed in addition to aluminum while Mr. Ranck's license in Collier County was limited to aluminum work only. In response to a question concerning the site, Mrs. Ranck explained the materials had been delivered to the jobsite; all posts and beams had been installed and installation of the roof was the final phase to be completed. It was at that point the rear setback became an issue and work was halted. She stated RV Lanai exceeded the amount of deposit for materials and labor by approximately$500. She estimated the posts should be moved by up to nine inches from the rear fence to comply with the existing set back. Michael Ossorio explained since the original Contractor was not licensed to perform the work which was done, even though there were additional expenses, the Contractor could not place a lien against the property. The County would object. Lien rights apply to Licensed Contractors. He stated the County is rarely contacted in situations where a Contractor is owed money by a property owner. Richard Joslin pointed out a contradiction with Mrs. Ranck's earlier testimony. She stated RV Lanai had worked in Collier County"without incident." He referred to County's Exhibit"E-28"which cited six instances of fines levied against RV Lanai since 2006 for not obtaining permits or working outside the scope of the license. Michael Ossorio explained in 2006 a determination("Finding") was made that Aluminum Contractors could no longer perform glazing of glass and/or windows— which was the basis for one of the fines. He stated Mrs. Ranck is in the Building Department between two to three times per week. He was surprised this case was brought before the Board. He noted Mrs. Ranck is a licensed Contractor while Mr. Ranck is the Qualifier for the company. Ian Jackson clarified only two Citations had been issued; the other items were notes in the system concerning permitting fees. Vice Chairman Lykos asked if his initial question regarding potential funds owed to a Contractor should be discussed during the penalty phase of the proceeding. Attorney James Morey, Attorney for the Contractors' Licensing Board, stated he was not sure the Board had the ability to impose a fine upon a consumer. In such cases, civil court is the usual venue. Vice Chairman Lykos asked for a motion to close the Hearing. Gary McNally moved to approve closing the Public Hearing. Terry Jerulle offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8-0. Attorney Morey outlined the Charge to the Board: • The Board shall ascertain in its deliberations that fundamental fairness and due process were accorded to the Respondent. 6 March 19,2014 • That, according to Section 22-203(g) (5) of the Codified Ordinance,the formal Rules of Evidence set out in Florida Statutes shall not apply. • The Board shall consider solely the evidence presented at the Hearing in its deliberation. • The Board shall exclude from its deliberations irrelevant, immaterial, and cumulative testimony. • The Board shall admit and consider all other evidence of a type commonly relied upon by reasonably prudent persons in the conduct of their affairs, whether or not that evidence would be admissible in a Court of Law. • Hearsay evidence may be used to explain or supplement any other evidence but hearsay, by itself, is not be sufficient to support a Finding unless such hearsay would be admissible over objection in a civil action in Court. • The Standard of Proof in actions where a Respondent may lose his/her privileges to practice his/her profession is that the evidence presented by the Complainant must prove the Complainant's case in a clear and convincing manner. • The Burden of Proof on the Complainant is a larger burden than the "Preponderance of Evidence" standard set in civil cases. • The Standard of Evidence is to be weighed solely as to the charges set out in the Complaint. • The only charges the Board may decide upon are the ones to which the Respondent has had an opportunity to prepare a defense. • The damages awarded by the Board must be directly related to the charges. • The decision made by the Board shall be stated orally at the Hearing and are effective upon being read, unless the Board should order otherwise. • The Respondent, if found guilty, has certain appeal rights to the Contractors' Licensing Board,the Courts, and the State's Construction Industry Licensing Board ("CILB"), as well as rights under Florida Statutes in the Administrative Code. • The Board shall vote upon the evidence presented in all areas and if the Respondent is found in violation, shall adopt the Administrative Complaint. • The Board shall also make Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in support of the charges set out in the Complaint. Vice Chairman Lykos outlined the Count I of the Administrative Complaint as follows: • Count I: Proceeding on any job without obtaining applicable permits or inspections from the City's Building and Zoning Division or the County's Building Review and Permitting Department." He noted the Respondents acknowledged guilt as to Count I. Richard Joslin moved to approve finding the Respondent,Richard J. Ranck, RV Lanai of SW Florida, Inc.,License Number 34532,guilty as to Count I of the County's Administrative Complaint of violating Collier County 7 March 19,2014 Ordinance #90-105, as amended, Section 4.1.18. Terry Jerulle offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8- 0. Vice Chairman Lykos outlined the Count II of the Administrative Complaint as follows: • Count II: Contracting to do any work outside the scope of his/her competency as listed on his/her Competency Card and as defined in this Article, or as restricted by the Contractors'Licensing Board. He noted the Respondents also acknowledged guilt as to Count II. Robert Meister moved to approve finding the Respondent,Richard J. Ranck, RV Lanai of SW Florida,Inc., License Number 34532,guilty as to Count II of the County's Administrative Complaint of violating Collier County Ordinance #90-105, as amended, Section 4.1.12. Kyle Lantz offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8- 0. Attorney Morey noted the second phase is deliberation of possible Sanction to be imposed. He stated since the Contractor was licensed by Collier County, the Contractors' Licensing Board may, but is not required to impose any of the following Sanctions, either alone or in combination: 1) Revocation of a Collier County (or City) Certificate of Competency, 2) Suspension of a Collier County(or City) Certificate of Competency, 3) Denial of the issuance or renewal of a Collier County(or City) Certificate of Competency, 4) Imposition of a period of probation, not to exceed two years in length, during which time the Contractor's contracting activity shall be under the supervision of the Collier County Contractors' Licensing Board, 5) Restitution; 6) Imposition of a fine not to exceed $5,000, 7) Issuance of a public reprimand, 8) Requirement for re-examination or participation in a duly-accredited program of continuing education directly related to the Contractor's contracting activity, 9) Denial of the issuance of Collier County or City building permits or requiring the issuance of such permits with specific conditions, and 10) Recovery of reasonable investigative costs incurred by the County for the prosecution of the violation. Attorney Morey further advised the Board that,when imposing any of the possible Disciplinary Sanctions on a Contractor,the Contractors' Licensing Board may consider all the evidence presented during the Public Hearing as well as: 1) The gravity of the violation; 2) The impact of the violation on Public Health/Safety or Welfare; 8 March 19,2014 3) Any actions taken by the violator to correct the violation(s); 4) Any previous violations committed by the violator, and 5) Any other evidence presented at the Hearing by the parties relevant to the Sanction which is appropriate for the case, given the nature of the violation(s) or the violator. Michael Ossorio noted the County incurred$910 in investigative costs. Recommendation: • Reimbursement to the County for investigative costs is to be paid within thirty days; • Imposition of a fine of$1,000 for working outside the scope of the license; • Imposition of a fine of$300 for working without obtaining a building permit; and • Revocation of the contractor's license. Robert Meister moved to accept and approve the County's recommendation and to also require the Respondent provide a Release of Lien. Michael Ossorio suggested either an affidavit or an email from the Respondent confirming that all suppliers had been paid would be sufficient. If the materials were delivered to the property by a vendor, he would have the right to place a material lien against it. Ian Jackson stated he contacted the property owner's representative twice and has not heard anything further. Vice Chairman Lykos expressed concern that requiring the Rancks to produce such a document could prevent them from filing a counterclaim if a civil suit were brought against them by the property owner in the future. Terry Jerulle stated if the Rancks accepted a deposit and delivered materials for the deposit,there should be a release just for the materials. Mrs. Ranck stated the materials were paid for at the time of delivery. She further stated the labor incurred during the partial completion of the job was paid, and she will provide a copy of the paid bill for the materials. Mr. Ossorio asked if the materials had been dropped off at the job site by the supplier and the response was,"Yes." He confirmed the supplier would be entitled to a lien if he/she had not been paid for materials. Robert Meister restated his motion: Robert Meister moved to accept and approve the County's recommendations concerning suspension of the Respondent's license and imposition of fines. The Respondent is to provide proof of payment of the materials. Michael Ossorio clarified the recommendation was to "revoke"the Respondent's license—not suspend it. Mr. Meister agreed to the clarification. 9 March 19,2014 Amended Motion: Robert Meister moved to accept and approve the County's recommendations concerning revocation of the Respondent's license and imposition offines. The Respondent is to provide proof of payment of the materials. Kyle Lantz offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. Vice Chairman Lykos outlined the Findinj's of Fact: • The Respondent, Richard J. Ranck, d/b/a/RV Lanai of SW Florida, Inc., is the holder of record of Collier County Certificate of Competency Number 34532 (Aluminum Contractor). • The Board of County Commissioners, Collier County, Florida, Contractors' Licensing Board is the Petitioner(Complainant) in this matter. • The Board has jurisdiction of the person of the Respondent. • Respondent, Richard J. Ranck, was present at the Public Hearing held on March 19, 2014 and was not represented by Counsel at said Hearing. • All notices required by Collier County Ordinance 90-105, as amended, had been properly issued and were personally delivered. • Based on the evidence presented,the Respondent acted in a manner that is in violation of Collier County Ordinances and is the one who committed the act. • The following Allegations of Fact set forth in Administrative Complaint were found to be supported by the evidence presented at the Hearing: o Count I: "Proceeding on any job without obtaining applicable permits or inspections from the City's Building and Zoning Division, or the County's Building Review and Permitting Department." o Count II: "Contracting to do any work outside the scope of his/her competency as listed on his/her competency card and as defined in this Article, or as restricted by the Contractors'Licensing Board." Conclusions of Law: • The Conclusions of Law alleged and set forth in the Administrative Complaint as to Count I and Count II were approved, adopted and incorporated herein,to wit: The Respondent violated Section 4.1.18 of Collier County Ordinance 90-105, as amended, regarding working without the required permits, and Section 4.1.2 regarding Scope of Work. Order of the Board: • Based upon the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, and pursuant to the authority granted in Chapter 489, Florida Statutes, and in Collier County Ordinance 90-105, as amended, by a vote of eight (8) in favor and none (0) in opposition, a majority vote of the Board members present,the Respondent has been found in violation as set out above. • Further, it is hereby ordered by a vote of eight(8) in favor, and none (0) in opposition, a majority vote of the Board members present,that the following disciplinary Sanctions are hereby imposed upon Richard J. Ranck,the holder 10 March 19,2014 of Collier County Certificate of Competency#34532 (Aluminum Contractor), to wit: • Investigative costs of$900 are to be reimbursed to the County within thirty days; • A fine of$1,000 is imposed for working outside the Scope of the license; • A fine of$300 is imposed for working without obtaining the required permit; • Mrs. Mary Ranck is to provide proof to the Contractors' Licensing Supervisor of payment of all materials delivered to the jobsite; and • The Respondent's license is hereby revoked. Vice Chairman Lykos noted the case was closed. Richard Ranck asked for additional time to pay the fines since his income has been severely limited. Michael Ossorio stated he will meet with Mr. and Mrs. Ranck to discuss options. Richard Joslin moved to approve authorizing the Contractors'Licensing Supervisor to devise a payment plan of the fines imposed in Case 20124-04, as above noted. Gary McNally offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. (Note: The order of the Agenda was resumed.) VI. NEW BUSINESS: A. Orders of the Board Richard Joslin moved to approve authorizing the Vice Chairman to sign the Orders of the Board. Kyle Lantz offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. (Note: With reference to the cases heard under Section VI, the individuals who testified were first sworn in by the Attorney for the Board.) B. Olaf Kuemmel—Verification of Construction Experience (d/b/a "SW Florida Garage, LLC") Michael Ossorio provided the following overview: • Mr. Keummel has applied for a Specialty license as an Epoxy Stone Contractor under Section 22-162 (17): Epoxy Stone Contractor requires 24 months experience with a passing grade on a Business and Law test and means those who are qualified to batch and mix aggregates, epoxy, hardener, and gravel to specification, or to construct forms and framework for the casting and shaping of epoxy and aggregate, or to pour, place and finish over a concrete base. 11 March 19,2014 • • The Licensing Board has approved three testing companies: PTI, Gainesville Independent, and ProMetric. • Per the Ordinance,the minimum passing grade is a score of 75. • The State's minimum passing grade is a score of 70. • Mr. Olaf is a State-certified Plumbing Contractor and a Certified General Contractor. His Scope of Work is unlimited. • Mr. Olaf wants to open another business which will be limited to Epoxy Stone work. • Mr. Olaf took the Business and Law test in 2002 and scored 73.75 which is slightly below the Collier County minimum score. • It will be less expensive for Mr. Olaf to obtain insurance if he has a Specialty license in the trade than to obtain additional coverage as a General Contractor. Mr. Ossorio reviewed the Ordinance and stated since the Applicant has been approved by the State of Florida, has maintained his continuing education, and the exam is superfluous to his work as an Epoxy Stone Contractor, he recommended approval of the application as presented. Attorney Morey noted the application was referred to the Board due to the language in the Ordinance. He stated the Board may consider the applicant's relevant experience in his trade and may waive testing requirements. Vice Chairman Lykos confirmed the sole issue before the Board was the test score. Mr. Ossorio stated Mr. Olaf has been a licensed Certified General Contractor since 2002 and was also a Plumber in Germany. He personally attested to the craftsmanship of the Applicant. He noted if the score had been 75, Mr. Olaf would have been approved for the Specialty Contractor license. Olaf Kuemmel stated: • He has been a Certified General Contractor since 2002; • His test score was 73.75; • The requirements for the Specialty license for the County is a score of 75; • The difference of 1.25 points is less than one question on the test; • He requested the Board grant his application for the Specialty license without requiring him to take the test again; • He has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry. • For the new business,he stated he knows what to do and how to do it. He will specialize in installing garage floor coatings. • He will keep the new business separate from his SWF Construction business. Richard Joslin moved to approve the application of Olaf Kuemmel for a Specialty License as an Epoxy Stone Contractor without requiring an examination. Kyle Lantz offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8— 0. 12 March 19,2014 C. Veronica A. Compean—Verification of Experience (d/b/a "Compean Maintenance, Inc.") Michael Ossorio: • Mrs. Compean has applied to obtain a license as a Landscaping Contractor—Restricted under Section 22-162 (25): Landscaping Contractor requires 12 months experience and a passing grade on a Business and Law test and means any person who is qualified to install and/or remove trees, shrubs, sod, decorative stone and/or rocks, timber and plant materials, and concrete paving units for sidewalks, patios and decks only, whether or not incidental to landscaping; and pre-packaged fountains, or waterfalls, provided same does not include connection to a sanitary sewer system, portable water line, or to any electrical installation, which tasks must be performed by tradesmen licensed in the relevant trade. Landscape Contractors may contract only for removal and/or trimming of trees and/or other combination(s) of the authorized services. All new applicants applying for a Landscaping license are required to obtain a passing grade on an approved exam pertaining to pruning and safety, in addition to the Business and Law exam. • Mrs. Compean took the Tree Contractor test(score: 77%) as well as the Business and Law exam (score: 82%). • She did not include any affidavits to verify her experience for the past twelve months because she worked with her husband who is employed by a licensed company. She only worked part-time. Veronica Compean: • She and her husband, Alfonso, were before the Board because she does not possess the "hands on" experience required to obtain a Landscaping license. • Her husband has the required experience; he has worked in the trade for fifteen years but is hampered by his inability to read/write in English. • They are currently working in the field of lawn maintenance (mowing, edging, etc.) and their customers have asked for more services. • Advancement in the field will benefit their family of seven. • She stated it does not make sense to work for another company to gain the required experience when she can do so by working with her husband. • She has worked with her husband since 2002. • "Compean Maintenance, Inc." was incorporated in March, 2009. Alfonso Compean confirmed his wife has worked with him; first, she began in 2002 when he was employed by a landscaping company and since he opened his company in 2009. He has a total of 30 years working in the Naples area. Working in landscape maintenance does not generate enough money to support his family. He stated his wife passed the tests because he cannot. She will hold the license but he will perform the majority of the work. 13 March 19,2014 Michael Ossorio noted Mr. Compean has been in business for 15 years and has never received a Citation for working without a license. Mr. Compean has been in the landscaping business for 15 years prior to opening his own company. Recommendation: • Approve the application but impose a twelve-month probationary period to be supervised by the Contractors' Licensing Office; • After one year,the Applicant will appear before the Board to review the business plan, and how the business has been operated. • Any complaints filed against the company will be reviewed by the Board. Vice Chairman Lykos asked Veronica Compean to explain the difference between lawn maintenance and a Landscaping license. Q. What are you allowed to do as Landscaper that you could not do in your lawn maintenance business? A. (Veronica Compean) Right now,we only mow the lawn. We can blow away clippings, we can edge, we can clean debris from plant beds. We want to be able to hedge—nothing big or huge. Customers want beautiful lawns with beautiful plants. We cannot replace a plant. Will we be commercial, `Yes.' But not a big or huge business. It will be the two of us. When we work with our customers, we want to give them the best service we can together. He [her husband] has all the knowledge and he has done it. He understands if it goes well or not. AIfonso Campean stated when a customer wants to change bushes,he must explain that he cannot and they must hire someone else. But I'm there and I could it if I had the license. Veronica Campeon continued she will be allowed to bring plants and flowers and plant them. Vice Chairman Lykos continued questioning Mrs. Campean. Q. Will you be allowed to trim trees? A. If it's in my path—I passed the tree trimming exam. I will do it when I am licensed. Not big or huge trees but medium trees as long as they are not near wires,yes. Q. Does the license allow you to plant new trees? A. I think so; yes. Vice Chairman Lykos stated it was important that the Applicant understand to avoid doing work that is outside the scope of the license. Q. Are you allowed to trim bushes? A. Yes. Q. Are you allowed to plant new grass and new sod? A. Yes. Q. And you're also allowed to maintain those as well? 14 • March 19,2014 A. Correct. Q. What happens if a tree has to be taken down? Are you allowed to remove a diseased tree? A. We can take down the tree but we cannot treat the disease. Q. Do either one of you have the experience to take down a tree that is near a house so that it does not fall and damage the house? A. Yes. He does. Vice Chairman Lykos questioned Alfonso Campean. Q. What do you understand the license will allow you to do? A. I can take bushes out and plant new bushes. I can trim trees. I can please my customers. If I have a license, I will be happy to do it. Terry Jerulle asked who Mr. Campean worked for in Naples for the 15 years prior to starting his own company. A. Sunshine Landscape. I was the Crew Leader. I drove Bobcats and did installations—everything. Q. New construction,too? A. Yes. Terry Jerulle moved to accept the County's recommendation and approve the application to grant a restricted license as a Landscape Contractor. The Applicant will be placed on probation for a one-year period. Richard Joslin offered a Second in support of the motion. Motion carried, 7— "Yes"/l — "Opposed." Vice Chairman Lykos was opposed. Vice Chairman Lykos explained to Mr. and Mrs. Campean they should take the time during the year to understand the restrictions under the license, and work within the scope of the license. D. Robert A. Zielinski—Second Entity Application (d/b/a "RAZ Construction,LLC") It was noted the Applicant was not present. Vice Chairman Lykos noted the following case was taken out of order;he assured Doug Nettles that his case would be heard next. F. Seth B. Hollander—Motion for Re-Hearing of Case#2014-02 (d/b/a "Hollander Construction Company, Inc.") The Applicant was present and represented by his attorney, Henry Johnson. Attorney Johnson explained the Motion for Re-Hearing was requested due to an Order entered against Seth B. Hollander and Hollander Construction Company, Inc., resulting from a Hearing held on January 15, 2014. 15 March 19,2014 Mr. Johnson stated: • We ask the Board to reconsider the penalties imposed by the Board against Mr. Hollander and Hollander Construction which were the subject of the January, 2014 Order. • The Order found Mr. Hollander and his company in violation of a section of the Code and Ordinance of Collier County relating to providing Workers' Compensation Insurance at a particular jobsite on a particular date. • The penalties imposed: o Suspension of Mr. Hollander's license for a period of 21 months to run concurrently with a previously imposed probationary period; o Imposition of a fine in the amount of$5,000; o The Respondent was also required to reimburse the County in the amount of$525 for administrative/investigative costs; o The Respondent was to be publically reprimanded. • We are asking the Board to reconsider the following: o To contemplate a lower suspension period. His license has been suspended for two months and that period may be appropriate given the facts and circumstances of this case. o To reduce the amount of the fine from $5,000 to $1,000. o We understand the reimbursement to the County of the costs incurred is appropriate. o To rescind the public reprimand. Mr. Johnson presented an update to the Board of events that happened since the Hearing: • Mr. Hollander was previously ordered to pay, on a monthly basis, $500 to the Contractors' Licensing Office as part of the previous probation; and he has been diligent in making the required payments. • Mr. Hollander's company has a fully active Workers' Compensation Insurance policy#106531, effective December 23, 2013 through December 23, 2014. • At the last Hearing, it may not have been made clear that Mr. Hollander was in the process of a Workers' Compensation audit; he met with an auditor on December 11, 2013 which was several days before the finding of a violation for lack of insurance coverage. o Please consider that Mr. Hollander was not ignoring law—he was in the middle of an audit. o We have supplemented the record by producing an Affidavit from Susan Weems,president of Weems Insurance of Naples, Inc. and agent for Hollander Construction. She verified that the previous policy expired in October, 2013 due to non-payment. A new policy could not be issued until an audit had been completed. o While the audit was ongoing,the violation occurred. Within two days of the Citation,the new policy became effective. 16 March 19,2014 • Since the Hearing, Mr. Hollander has been in contact with Counsel for the Florida Department of Financial Services to settle issues. The FDFS has requested records from Mr. Hollander's company. To date,there has been no Finding by the State regarding Workers' Compensation issues. • Mr. Hollander has been proactive since December and before then. • Mr. Hollander came to the previous Hearing and admitted his error. • The new facts presented to the Board could give the Board cause to modify the previously imposed penalties. Mr. Johnson opined it would be beneficial not only for Mr. Hollander but also for companies like his if probationary periods included a mentoring component. He noted even attorneys can obtain help [from their peers] if they experience issues in their practice, i.e., business problems. He continued: • I am respectfully asking the Board to please consider a substantial modification of the penalty phase. • Mr. Hollander wants to be a good Contractor. • Our office is working with Mr. Hollander and the Department of Financial Services to reach a resolution in the Workers Compensation matter. • You have Ms. Weems' Affidavit, and a packet has been provided to you. • We ask that you consider all of that in evidence as you discuss a Re- Hearing of the penalty phase of what the Board previously examined. • This is a Motion for Re-Hearing ... essentially a Motion for Reconsideration. There are some new developments and facts which the Board could consider to lessen the penalty phase. Vice Chairman Lykos asked the Board's counsel if the Board's only issue was to determine whether or not to schedule a re-hearing of the case, and the response was, "Yes." Attorney Morey referenced Section 22-204 of the Code, "Rehearing," (a copy of which had been provided to the Board for their review) as follows: • Any Request for a Rehearing must be in writing. o Respondent's attorney submitted a Motion for Rehearing, dated February 20, 2014, as required. o The Board is to consider that Request. • A Request for Rehearing shall be based only on the ground that fundamental error occurred which resulted in a failure of due process, the decision was contrary to the evidence, or that the hearing involved an error in a ruling of law and/or fact which was fundamental to the decision of the Contractors'Licensing Board. Vice Chairman Lykos asked Mr. Johnson to respond to the specific item that was the basis for the request for a rehearing. 17 March 19,2014 Attorney Johnson replied: • I think there has been fundamental error because you really have no guidepost of how you are to impose penalty. And the Board made the decision of failing to have appropriate Workers' Compensation insurance before the State's Department of Financial Services ever made its decision. Essentially, while Mr. Hollander was attempting to comply with the Department of Financial Services, we respectfully state,the Board pre-empted that process. In other words, the Department of Financial Services has not made a Finding. We believe that through negotiation, it is a correctable error. The fundamental error is that the Board imposed penalties which it really didn't have any clear guidelines for the imposing of those penalties, respectfully, certainly to the degree that it was done. The Board didn't consider the fact that there was, at the time, essentially a State issue that involved the Department of Financial Services. Kyle Lantz questioned if the Board was being asked to not pass judgment on anyone who has a Workers' Compensation issue until after the State has completed its investigation. What you are saying applies not only to this case but, obviously, we will apply it in the future. Attorney Johnson: • Respectfully, I think when it is time for a Finding of violation you don't need the State's input to make that Finding under your Ordinance. But when it comes to the penalty phase, I think that's where the Board needs to take a step back. • Because, certainly,the issues we examined with the Department of Financial Services would impact the penalty phase. If I were to come before the Board and state we had reached an accord with the Department of Financial Services—we complied with their requirements—that would be something that would be very important for the Board to consider in the penalty phase of anyone who violates your own Ordinance relating to Workers' Compensation issues. • I'm looking at it in terms of the penalty phase, and I think that would make a difference. He continued: • This has been our experience in our office: o There is an initial order that is provided on site. And it stops the project. o Then there is a period of time where, either through counsel or directly through the local Investigators, we work to determine if there is a substantial issue, a large issue, or a small issue. 18 March 19,2014 o At that point in time, Mr. Hollander began working through our office and the Counsel for the Department of Financial Services to determine the next step to resolve the matter, or not. Kyle Lantz: • My question is not at the State level but at the County level. • Michael, if your investigators stop someone on the side of the road who is doing work without Workers' Comp insurance, do you call the State office and ask them to take over, or do you issue a Citation with a fine, or ... how does that work? A. (Michael Ossorio) If the Applicant doesn't have the proper insurance, we assess a$1,000 fine. Q. Pretty much instantaneous? A. Yes. Q. You don't have the State investigate? A. No. For the most part, we try to work with the State and in this particular case,too, as well. There are four Workers' Comp Investigators out there in the field, so they are not very hard to get ahold of. And we communicate with them, probably, on a daily basis. We have Licensing and Financial Services working together on a daily basis. But, for a practical matter, if you are licensed and you work without insurance, it's a$1,000 fine. Now, unfortunately, in this particular case,the Respondent was on probation so the facts are different ... how we communicate to the Licensing Board and how the Board communicates to someone who is on probation. I am not here to dispute the facts. He has applied for a rehearing--- so, if you want to have a rehearing ... I am assuming that he opens the door to have the Workers' Comp agent bring more evidence—in good light or in bad. Q. No. The only issue that I'm bringing up is ... the reason why we're having a rehearing is because we didn't have all the facts ... Richard Joslin noted the Board was not having a rehearing yet. Q. ... a Request for a Rehearing is that the State hadn't finished its investigation ... we did it on our end. So, if that's the case,then does that mean that anybody who gets a$1,000 ticket in the future is going to be able to say, "Well, you let this case get retried ... A. That's his argument. We don't take orders from Financial Services. We conduct our own investigation. We just did one last month [January, 2014) with K. C. Tiles and Marble, Inc. That case has been heard, finished, completed, and now it's going through the civil court. But I believe we can run concurrent [investigations]. If our own investigation warrants a charge,the Licensing Board will file with the Clerk's Office. And that is what we did. Richard Joslin: • In my opinion, if this is going to be a Motion for Rehearing, I think the Motion is coming a little bit premature. Only because if there is something 19 • March 19,2014 • that's happening and this judgment has already been made, and the penalty phase has already been entered into, then there's a good chance that our ruling would stand until maybe it does go before the State Workers' Comp Board or before his concerns with them. Then maybe would be the time to have a Motion for Rehearing ... maybe to justify that particular phase that we did ... give penalties. Attorney Johnson responded: • There was a procedural mandate ... we had only so many days following the ruling to file our Motion or waive it for all time. Richard Joslin: • I understand you met the criteria of the law concerning when you can do it, but now would be the time for the Board to decide whether or not we're going to hear it or postpone it until you satisfy your own things through the State of Florida's Workers' Comp insurance because it could change our verdict as far as that ruling goes. Terry Jerulle: • This is Collier County. He did work—admitted working in Collier County; he hired employees without knowingly—without having Workers' Compensation. It's a County violation. He came before the Board,he admitted it, we found him to be guilty, and we assessed the fine. I do not see a"fundamental error" in that. Richard Joslin: • And it would be different if it were only a few days—but this went on from October to December—that's two months with no insurance. If there was a problem, then maybe Weems should have contacted him and said, "Hey your policy has run out and what's up with that? Why don't you have a new policy?" But it took him two months to get it done. We made the ruling and I think the ruling will stand. Terry Jerulle: • I'm not going to discuss the case. What I believe we should be discussing is whether we made a fundamental error in our ruling. And I've yet to be convinced by the [Respondent's] attorney that we made a fundamental error. Attorney Morey: • There are several possibilities that someone could put forth as a reason for the rehearing: o that a fundamental error occurred which resulted in the failure of due process; inadequate Notice; wasn't allowed to present a case; was cut off—wasn't afforded due process; 20 • • March 19,2014 • o the decision was contrary to the evidence. We can consider only the penalty phase or we can narrow it down to an issue on that point; o if there was a fact in the Hearing or pleading that the Board relied upon to make a decision and then later learned that the fact was incorrect, i.e., said it happened on a Thursday when it happened on a Friday; o If we found out that something was a real crux of the decision— that's a significant error. He continued those are the limited reasons to grant a rehearing if the Board decides to grant a rehearing. If a rehearing is granted, it is conducted as a new Hearing and both sides will be given an opportunity to present new evidence or argument. It can be limited by the Board to a specific issue or it can be all over again. He explained if a rehearing is allowed, the Board could affirm,modify, or reverse its initial ruling. Vice Chairman Lykos stated he wrote in his notes that there were three reasons for a rehearing: (1) "A fundamental error occurred which resulted in a failure of due process." • He asked the Board members if they thought a fundamental error had occurred. o [No response] He continued, Item#2 is "the decision was contrary to the evidence." • He asked the Board members if they thought the decision reached was contrary to the evidence. o [No response] He continued,the third Item is "there was an error on a ruling of law and/or a fact which was fundamental to the decision of the Licensing Board." • He asked the Board members if they thought an error was made on a ruling or on a fact that affected our decision making. o [No response] Terry Jerulle: "No. And I haven't heard testimony otherwise." Vice Chairman Lykos asked,based on the three criteria,the question for the Board to answer, "Does the case as presented by the Respondent dictate us to schedule it for a rehearing?" Richard Joslin: "I would say not at this time." Attorney Morey stated Mr. Johnson should be allowed to make a Closing Statement to support his motion. The Respondent's request is, "Grant a rehearing." The Board's motion is, essentially, "Yes" or"No." 21 March 19,2014 Attorney Johnson presented the"Closing Statement" for the Respondent: • We provided a packet which we respectfully contend is our lawful basis for a rehearing. • Again, we would emphasize that, while I'm sensitive to Mr. Jerulle's comments, at this point in time,there are no established, clear criteria for how you handle the penalty phase of a matter such as this. • You have broad criteria but they can be applied a lot of different ways. • Given the affidavit of Ms. Weems; given the fact that there is a separate investigation by the State which I think could impact this Board's ultimate decision making power ... • I think there are two things here: o (1) If there's been a violation: We are in the process of attempting to mitigate damages and issues with the Florida Department of Financial Services. We think that if a resolution were provided to the Board, it could impact that Board's decision relating to the penalty phase. o (2) The affidavit of Ms. Weems supports the fact that there can be reconsideration of the penalty phase. • That's what we're looking for. Your Findings can stand as to your decision concerning guilt or innocence. But we think there's enough for you to be able to rehear the penalty phase. Terry Jerulle moved to approve denying the Motion for a Rehearing. Gary McNally offered a Second in support of the motion. [Note: There was no additional discussion by the Board members. Carried unanimously, 8—0. BREAK: 10:45 AM RECONVENED: 10:57 AM VI. NEW BUSINESS: (Continued) D. Robert A. Zielinski—Second Entity Application (d/b/a "RAZ Construction,LLC") Vice Chairman Lykos again asked if Mr. Zielinski was present. It was noted the Applicant was not present. E. Doug Nettles—Verification of Experience (d/b/a"Marco Island Home Services, LLC") Doug Nettles stated he was appearing before the Board because he lacked verification of experience concerning the pressure washing of roofs. Vice Chairman Lykos asked which license had he applied to obtain. Doug Nettles responded, "Roof coat,roof paint, roof clean." 22 • March 19,2014 Michael Ossorio referenced Section 22 -162(35) as follows: Roof Coating, Roof Painting, and Roof Cleaning Contractor requires 24-months experience, a passing grade on a Business and Law test, and means any person who is qualified to clean,paint, or coat a roof by means of pressure-operated equipment, hand application, or otherwise. This category does not include roof repair. Criteria: • The Applicant did take/pass the Business and Law test(Score: 78); • Credit score must meet the threshold of the Administrative approval process; • Demonstrated experience. Mr. Ossorio continued: • Mr.Nettles owns and operates a pressure-washing business and has operated it on Marco Island for many years o Pressure washing pool decks and pool cages • His Business Tax Receipt restricts his work to maintenance service only/no contracting. • He is before the Board to obtain a license for roof coating and roof cleaning—he is to clarify the type of work he does. Doug Nettles: • He has been licensed since 2008 to work as a pressure washer. • His roofing experience is limited—he worked for Dally Roofing until the Board pulled the license in 2008. He attempted to contact Bruce Dally but has been unable to find a phone number for him. • His brother has over 35 year roofing experience who will vouch that he worked with him at Dally Roofing and his other experience in Oklahoma for Eagle Roofing. • He stated he has both pressure washing and roofing experience. His specific roof pressure washing experience that cannot be verified because his former employer(in Naples) is no longer in business and he not received a response from his former employer in Oklahoma. • He stated he has no experience with roof coating or roof painting. • He is limiting his scope of work to roof washing. • He currently performs all aspects of pressure washing from the eaves of the roof down to ground level. Vice Chairman Lykos noted the license includes roof coating and roof painting and stated if the Board issued the license to him, the Applicant would be allowed to do coating and painting. Mr. Nettles replied that his brother's experience would apply; his business is a family owned company and he has been part of the company for the past seven years. His brother is experienced in roof coating and roof painting. 23 March 19,2014 • Michael Ossorio stated he can(and does) restrict this type of license and modify it to a particular category, i.e., roof cleaning. David Nettles: • He thirty-five years of roofing experience ranging from residential to commercial building • He does not believe a coating should be applied to a roof and would not be involved in roof coating • He knows how to paint and clean roofs safely; he has never been hurt on a job site • He wants to make his living washing roofs • He will be working with his brother Doug Nettles stated other employees include his nephews. He stated his brother will be responsible for training employees. He explained he has been on roofs when necessary to wash windows. He stated he is comfortable on roofs and very comfortable using the pressure washer. Michael Ossorio noted the application stated Doug Nettles owns 100% of the company and asked if his brother was an employee, and the response was, "Yes." Mr. Nettles stated his brother could be own 10% of the company if that would help to obtain the license. Mr. Ossorio explained if David Nettles is working for the company, he would feel more comfortable knowing that Mr.Nettles would a certain percentage of it. Recommendation: • David Nettles is to own 10% of Marco Island Homes Services, LLC • The license will be restricted to roof cleaning only Kyle Lantz asked the Applicant to explain how he cleans roofs. Doug Nettles relied he will pressure wash tile roofs; while bleach can be used to treat mold/mildew, in his experience 3800 pounds of pressure is sufficient to remove mold. Q. What do you use to protect yourselves—safety equipment? A. Safety shoes or rubberized soles work very well. We don't use harnesses or ropes or work when there is lightning. Richard Joslin moved to approve the application of Doug Nettles for a restricted license for roof washing/cleaning provided his brother has a 10% ownership in the company. Robert Meister offered a second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. G. Christopher L. Adams—Waiver of Examination (Reinstatement) (d/b/a "Crescent Beach Custom Homes,LLC") 24 March 19,2014 • Michael Ossorio stated: • The Applicant is a Registered General Contractor who allowed his Certificate to lapse; • His State registration is"current/inactive"which means it is in dormant status; • He has kept his Continuing Education requirements; and • Taking the exam would be superfluous. Recommendation: • Reinstate the license and waive the testing requirement; • The Applicant is required to pay all back fees for the past three years in the amount of$1,075. Christopher Adams stated: • He had been a General Contractor in Collier County; • He and his partners chose to close Marco Island Construction due to the economic downturn; • He waited until he was financially stable to open his own company (without partners); • He kept his license current with the State and remained current with the Continuing Education requirements; • He has applied to reinstate his license and to waive the testing requirement. • He stated he has remained in contact with friends in the industry and is aware of the changes to the Building Code. When asked about his connection to Premiere Sotheby's Realty, Mr. Adams explained when he and his wife initially moved to Florida, they each obtained a real estate license. When the construction company closed, he joined his wife who is a Realtor with Premiere Sotheby's. Richard Joslin noted for the record that he has worked with Premiere Sotheby's and with the Applicant's wife. Kyle Lantz moved to approve the application to reinstate Christopher Adams' license as a General Contractor and to waive the testing requirement. Ronald Donino offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8— 0. E. Robert A. Zielinski—Second Entity Application (d/b/a "RAZ Construction, LLC") Vice Chairman Lykos asked for the third time if Mr. Zielinski was present. It was noted the Applicant was not present. VII. OLD BUSINESS (Note: With reference to the cases heard under Section VII, the individuals who testified were first sworn in by the Attorney for the Board.) 25 March 19,2014 • A. Roger Drouin—Review of Suspension (d/b/a "Novelte Construction and Design,LLC") Michael Ossorio provided background information: • Mr. Drouin appeared before the Board in February, 2013; • His licensed was renewed and he was placed on probation for a one-year period during which time he was to take and pass o Business and Law o Concrete (Forming and Placement) o Masonry • He missed the deadline and his license was suspended. • Mr. Drouin closed his business to concentrate on preparing for the exams. • He has passed all three exams: o Business and Law—score: 82 o Masonry (Forming and Placement)—score: 76 Recommendation: • Remove the suspension;return his license to active status Attorney Morey confirmed the Board has the authority to 1' t the suspension. Roger Drouin stated: • Time"got away"from him; • Was dealing with some family issues; • Business increased by 300% -worked 16-hour days; • When notified of his suspension, he immediately shut down his business' • He took and passed the required tests as well as the Marine Contractor's exam; • He asked the Board to lift the suspension and activate his license. Richard Joslin moved to approve terminating the suspension of Roger Drouin. Gary McNally offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Note: With reference to the cases heard under Section VIII, the individuals who testified were first sworn in by the Attorney for the Board.) B. Case 2014-05: William B. Neuzil, d/b/a "Naples Construction Group,LLC." The Respondent, William B.Neuzil, was present and was not represented by counsel. 26 March 19,20 • Vice Chairman Lykos briefly outlined the order of the proceedings to be followed: • Open the Public Hearing; • Swear the witnesses; • Accept any evidence from the parties; • The County will present its"Opening Statement;" • The Respondent will present his/her"Opening Statement;" • The County will next present its "Case in Chief;" • The Respondent will present his/her defense; • The County may offer any rebuttal. That concludes the Public Hearing process. • The Board will close the Public Hearing and receive instructions from its attorney, which is similar to a"Charge" given to a Jury, setting out the parameters on which the Board's Members will base their decision. • During deliberations,the Board can request additional information and clarification(s) from the parties. • The Board will decide two different issues: o First, whether the Respondent is guilty of the offense as charged in the Administrative Complaint. o A vote will be taken on the matter. o Second, if the Respondent is found guilty,the Board will decide the Sanctions to be imposed. • The Board's Attorney will advise the Board of the Sanctions that may be imposed and the factors to be considered. • The Board will discuss Sanctions and vote. • The Chair will orally report the decision of the Board. Ian Jackson, Collier County License Compliance Officer,requested to enter the packet of information provided to the Board Members for Case 2014-05 into evidence. Kyle Lantz moved to approve opening the Public Hearing in Case No. 2014-05: The Board of County Commissioners, Collier County Contractors'Licensing Board vs. William B.Neuzil, d/b/a "Naples Construction Group,LLC"License No.: CGC1508081 (Certified General Contractor), and entering the information packet into evidence as County's Exhibit "1." Gary McNally offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. Ian Jackson presented the County's "Opening Statement:" • The County is prepared to show through documented facts and sworn testimony that the Respondent violated Collier County Ordinance#90-105, as amended, Section 22-201.1(2)by"Willfully violating the 2101 Florida Building Code, Section 105.1." 27 March 19,2014 Respondent presented his"Opening Statement:" • I'm guilty of it. • I started construction without the permits. • We demoed the house and started laying up blocks and kept going without getting the proper permits. Ian Jackson presented the County's "Case in Chief:" • February 6, 2014: The case was referred by the City of Naples' Building Department by Tom Szempruch, Acting Deputy Building Official, concerning the reconstruction of a substantially demolished home which began prior to permits being issued. • February 7, 2014: A site visit was conducted. The Investigator met with the Respondent and advised him of the violation. A"Stop Work" Order was issued. • February 11, 2014: The Investigator was contacted by the City of Naples Building Department by Building Official, Paul Bollenback, and Tom Szempruch. The"Stop Work" Order had been violated, i.e., masonry construction had taken place. A second"Stop Work" Order was issued by the City of Naples. • The Respondent advised the Investigator that the Masonry subcontractor had not advised his sub-subcontractor of the"Stop Work" Order. The miscommunication was between the subcontractor and his sub. • A Demolition Permit had been issued on/about November 13, 2013 to settle a previous misconduct case at the same property where the Respondent began demolition prior to having a permit issued in violation of the 2010 Florida Building Code, Section 105.1. • The Investigator researched the Respondent's case history in the County's database. o May 10, 2012: The violation involved unpermitted roof repair and a/c wrap installation at 1155 Sandpiper Road, Units G-4. E-4, B-1 and B2. The case was settled when the Contractor abated the violations by obtaining after-the-fact permits and Certificates of Completion for all of the unpermitted repairs and installations at the location. o April 10, 2012: The Respondent was issued an uncontested Citation for engaging in the business or acting in the capacity of a Contractor or advertising self or business organization as available to engage in the business or act in the capacity of a Contractor without being duly registered or certified. The Respondent, a General Contractor,was performing roofing construction himself and not utilizing a roofing subcontractor as required. o The Respondent was issued a second Citation on April 10, 2012 for commencing or performing work for which a building permit is required pursuant to the adopted State Minimum Building Code or without such permit being in effect. Investigator Jackson called Paul Bollenback to testify as a Witness for the County. 28 March 19,2014 Investigator Jackson questioned the Witness as follows: Q. Could you state your name? A. Paul Bollenback. Q. What is your position and how long have you had that position? A. I am the Building Official for the City of Naples and have held that position for approximately seven years. Q. Do you know your Building Code Administrator License Number? A. Yes. BU-1433. Q. Are you familiar with the project referenced in the Administrative Complaint? A. I am. Q. In your opinion as the City of Naples' Building Official, has the Respondent willfully violated the 2010 Florida Building Code Section 105.1 with the violations established on this construction project? A. I believe that is correct. The County's "Case in Chief'was concluded. Respondent,William Neuzil, presented his "Case in Chief:" • Since the time I asked Cronin Engineering to go out there and give me a stamped, sealed plan stating what we did is to Code. I also did a change of contractor form because the reason all this stuff happened is because me and the homeowner just didn't get along. It was push, push, push, push. • I did it. I am guilty. I should have told the homeowner, "No"but I didn't. Vice Chairman Lykos asked the Respondent if he understood the charges against him, starting work without a permit on the same project—twice. A. Correct. Ian Jackson stated since the Respondent acknowledged there was a violation,the County would rest its case. Terry Jerulle requested an explanation of when the photographs were taken. Ian Jackson: The photos in the County's Exhibit E-34 through E-27 were taken on February 11, 2014 after the first"Stop Work" Order was issued. Terry Jerulle asked the Respondent if he poured tie-beams. A. No. It was a remodeled house. Q. There was no tie-beam support? A. There is a tie-beam around the existing home. [The Respondent was asked to explain what he did.] A. Took the existing roof off. Q. So every tie-beam I see is an existing beam? A. What we did was to take the roof off and raise it up by two feet, and then we poured another beam on top of it. Terry Jerulle requested to recall the Witness to testify. 29 March 19,2014 Terry Jerulle questioned Paul Bollenback: Q. Paul, did you go to the jobsite? A. I have been to the jobsite. Yes. Q. It looks like a new tie-beam. Vice Chairman Lykos requested Mr. Bollenback review County's Exhibit E-35 and stated it looked as if new block was on top of old block and a new tie-beam. A. I have not actually discussed this with Mr. Neuzil. To be honest with you,the extent of the work—both through the photographs that were presented to me, to the communication that I had with my own staff, and through having visited the site myself—it was my understanding that there is new tie-beam or bond beam— new beams were poured there from what I could tell. The Respondent interjected, "Partial." Mr. Bollenback continued: This was an existing concrete building that was—the entire roof structure trusses were removed. Obviously, there was the intent to go to a second floor here. There was obviously new block work and also tie-beam work associated with that—it was my understanding that tie-beam work was done. Q. That's what it appears to be in the photos—I just wanted it to be made clear. Robert Meister: I don't know how there couldn't be new tie beams because there are new roof truss straps. Terry Jerulle stated he was amazed someone could get that far into construction without a permit. Kyle Lantz asked the Respondent if he had a permit to demo the old roof. A. Yes. Q. And that was issued, so ... after the fact? A. No. I had the permit before the roof came off. We got the "Stop Work"Order when I removed some drywall from the inside of the home. That time, we stopped and got a permit. Q. So you got a demo permit, took the roof off, took the drywall out, and then you got in trouble ...? A. No. We started taking the drywall off because it was going to be a small remodel. We started removing the drywall by hand because it was an older home—that's when I got the "Stop Work" Order. At that time, we stopped and got the permit. We proceeded with removing the rest of the drywall, and then hand removed all the trusses. Q. The permit encompassed all that—removing the drywall and the trusses? A. Correct. Q. And then you started doing concrete work? A. Started laying the block and cutting the windows open, and forming ... there's a little ribbon beam on top of the existing beam there. Q. And so you did all that—and you poured it without your permit? A. Correct. Q. You mentioned you had a stamped letter from an engineering company—did they come out and inspect it—or look at your pictures? How did they ...? 30 • March 19,2014 A. They came out and did a full inspection on it, after the fact. It's Cronin Engineering—he engineered it originally and he came out as well. Richard Joslin asked the Respondent if there were any proof in the packet. A. No,he just finished it the other day. He didn't finish it in time to put it in the package. It was noted the letter should have been included with the application. Kyle Lantz asked the Respondent if he applied for a permit. A. No. The contracts changed on the job. Q. Had you ever applied for a permit? A. No—just had the demo permit. Q. Was the beam that you were raising `engineered' at least? A. It was all engineered with a full set of engineered plans. Q. It was just never submitted to the County? A. It wasn't complete—there was no drainage plan—but it was a full engineered set of plans. It wasn't like we went out there and winged it. Richard Joslin noted the Respondent's statement that the homeowner pressured him to begin work right away and said he would pay for any fines. The Respondent admitted he should have changed [jobs] a while ago. • But I finally did. I signed the paper over about a week ago. Vice Chairman Lycos requested to recall the Witness, Paul Bollenback,to testify. Q. It has been my experience working in the City that, in some circumstances, where a contractor can come to the City and apply for a demolition permit when the rest of the project has not been engineered or the plans have not been developed, and the Contractor can start to work. Is that correct? A. There is a provision in The Florida Building Code, Chapter 1, for what we call an"Early Permit Waiver"that allows a Contractor to begin work if he has properly submitted a Permit Application to the local Building Department. I think that's what you are referring to. Q. Correct. A. Such a thing does exist. That's correct. Q. So if you're "under the gun"time-wise, you can apply for the permit ... in my experience, I have met with you to review the plans ... and then the Contractor takes liability for anything that may not be Code-compliant in the plans. At least it allows you to start before the whole entire Plan Review process has been completed. A. The Building Code allows for such a thing at the discretion of the Building Official and I will entertain those requests on an individual basis. I don't recall ... have I done that with you before? Q. We've done it a couple of time .... A. Okay. Q. ... in condo buildings ... A. Typically, you cannot receive an inspection ... you can go up only to the point where you would receive your first inspection. It allows a builder to go ahead 31 March 19,2014 • and show the owner that he is starting and making an attempt. But the permit— in order for that to be legal—the permit application must have been submitted to the local Building Department. Richard Joslin questioned the Witness: Q. What's the normal time for a permit to be issued? How long does it generally take for a permit to come out? A. It depends upon the permit type. This is a single family addition alteration permit and typically those are running about three weeks. Terry Jerulle questioned the Witness: Q. When someone such as a Contractor submits for a building permit,there's a review process by you and your staff—correct? A. That's correct. Q. In a single family home like this,there is a structural review, is there not? A. Absolutely. Q. And, during that structural review, you review the structural drawings to see if they comply with the Code—correct? A. Correct. Q. And that has not been done in this process? A. So, for someone to go out and start construction on a home that is supposed to be Code-compliant to 2010,the review hasn't been done by the City of Naples? Q. And the inspector—there's also a secondary check—that inspectors come out to the jobsite to verify not only were the plans per Code but that the work is being done per Code. Correct? A. Per the approved plans, that's correct. Typically, a very extensive set of structural drawings would have accompanied this permit had it been submitted to us. The design firm is an excellent one—unfortunately they [the drawings] never made it to our desk. We don't know what work would have gone on without us having done our typical process, i.e., submittal,plan review, approval, field inspection. Q. So the work that we see here—none of that has happened through the City of Naples to date? A. That is correct. Richard Joslin questioned the Respondent: Q. Didn't you say, I believe, you had signed engineered plans to begin the construction ... A. Correct. Q. ... if you had the permit, then it would have been built to those specifications— right? A. Correct. Plus he also—that same engineer came out and gave us a letter that I have to give to the City saying that what's out there—he has basically, I guess, taken liability for it ... Q. He has signed off on it ... everything is correct, according to Code and according to what the City of Naples would look at ... A. Correct. Q. ... as a finished product. 32 March 19,2014 A. Correct. Vice Chairman Lykos questioned the Witness: Q. Specifically in a residential addition alteration,there are other factors that come into play with a permit application before you even get the building construction drawings themselves—like zoning and FEMA and those types of things. Has this project gone through that process? A. It has not. Q. Can you explain for our Board members what the consequences might be if the plan fails that process? A. The two issues that you mentioned would be floodplain ... if this property were could be located ... actually is located in an identified flood zone—if the property was deconstructed to the point where it might violate what is commonly known as the "50% Rule"before the City involvement, we might have had to require the owner to completely demolish the home and rebuild it. Luckily,that did not happen. This home was built at an elevation that exceeds the required flood elevation but nobody knew that—at least nobody on our staff —knew that at the time. That was a very big risk that the owner and the builder took. The other thing was zoning. There are times when—any community has setback requirements and height requirements—things of a zoning nature. To go ahead and build in a vertical fashion, until you are sure that those zoning requirements are compliant, is extremely risky. It's just not done. There is a review process done by cities and counties throughout the State of Florida, and that was bypassed in this case. Q. There is also an architectural review because the City has requirements for the final appearance of a home as well. A. Well, not on a single family home. No, sir, only on commercial buildings. Kyle Lantz questioned the Respondent: Q. You had mentioned the homeowner was pushing you to get this done and said he would pay any fines. Did you ask him to show up today and vouch for you? A. No. I signed over ... no. Richard Joslin questioned the Respondent: Q. Obviously, there was a dispute of some sort? A. Yes. Q. Was it because of the ... was it that you weren't going fast enough ...or ... A. We just didn't .... Q. ...just didn't click? Okay. Vice Chairman Lykos called for a motion to close the Public Hearing. Terry Jerulle moved to approve closing the Public Hearing. Richard Joslin offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. Attorney Morey outlined the Charge to the Board: 33 March 19,2014 • The Board shall ascertain in its deliberations that fundamental fairness and due process were accorded to the Respondent. • That, pursuant to Section 22-203(g) (5) of the Codified Ordinance, the formal Rules of Evidence set out in Florida Statutes shall not apply. • The Board shall consider solely the evidence presented at the Hearing. • The Board shall exclude from its deliberations irrelevant, immaterial, and cumulative testimony. • The Board shall admit and consider all other evidence of a type commonly relied upon by reasonably prudent persons in the conduct of their affairs, whether or not such evidence would be admissible in a Court of Law. • Hearsay evidence may be used to explain or supplement any other evidence but hearsay, by itself, is not be sufficient to support a Finding unless that hearsay would be admissible over objection in a civil action in Court. • The Standard of Proof in actions where a Respondent may lose his/her privileges to practice his/her profession is that the evidence presented by the Complainant must prove the Complainant's case in a clear and convincing manner. • The Burden of Proof on the Complainant is a larger burden than the "Preponderance of Evidence" standard set in civil cases. • The Standard of Evidence is to be weighed solely as to the charges set out in the Complaint. • The only charges the Board may decide upon are the ones to which the Respondent has had an opportunity to prepare a defense. • The damages awarded by the Board must be directly related to the charges. • The decisions made by the Board shall be stated orally at the Hearing and are effective upon being read, unless the Board orders otherwise. • The Respondent, if found guilty, has certain appeal rights to the Contractors' Licensing Board, the Courts, and the State's Construction Industry Licensing Board("CILB"), if applicable, and pursuant to Florida Statutes, the Florida Administrative Code. • The Board shall vote upon the evidence presented in all areas and if the Respondent is found in violation, shall adopt the Administrative Complaint. • The Board shall also make Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law in support of the charges set out in the Complaint. Kyle Lantz noted the Respondent had admitted his guilt. Kyle Lantz moved to approve finding the Respondent guilty of Count I of the County's Administrative Complaint. Richard Joslin offered a Second in support of the motion. Carried unanimously, 8—0. Attorney Morey noted the Board found the Respondent to be guilty. The Respondent is a State licensed Certified General Contractor, as well as a Collier County licensed Contractor. (CGC 1508081//Certificate 201200000637). He stated the Disciplinary Sanctions for State-licensed Contractors are slightly different than those that might be imposed on a County licensed Contractor. 34 • March 19,2014 • If the Contractors' Licensing Board finds there has been misconduct by a State- certified Contractor,the Board may: 1) Deny the issuance or renewal of Collier County or City Building Permits or require the issuance of permits with specific conditions; 2) Notification of and information concerning permit denial will be submitted to the State's Construction Industry Licensing Board("CILB"); Attorney Morey further advised the Board that, when imposing any of the possible Disciplinary Sanctions on a Contractor, the Contractors' Licensing Board may consider all the evidence presented during the Public Hearing as well as: 1) The gravity of the violation; 2) The impact of the violation on Public Health/Safety or Welfare; 3) Any actions taken by the violator to correct the violation(s); 4) Any previous violations committed by the violator, and 5) Any other evidence presented at the Hearing by the parties relevant to the Sanction which is appropriate for the case, given the nature of the violation(s) or the violator. Vice Chairman Lykos asked for a recommendation from the County. Recommendation: • Under 22-203, "Disciplinary Sanctions:" Holders of State of Florida Certificates of Competency. (2) Notification of any information concerning such permit denial shall be submitted to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation within 15 days after the Contractors' Licensing Board decides to deny the permit. Michael Ossorio recommended imposing a two-year probation of the Respondent's building permit pulling privileges concerning the issuance of any new building permit. During the probationary period, if the Respondent is found to have willfully violated the Code by any Building Official,his building permit pulling privileges should automatically be revoked. Mr. Ossorio requested that the Board authorize him to send a letter to the State within fifteen days of its decision to notify the State that Mr.Neuzil's building permit privileges have been denied under his license. The letter will also recommend that the State require Mr. Neuzil to reimburse the County for investigative costs incurred in the amount of$735. Richard Joslin questioned the Respondent: Q. The packet does not contain a copy of the contract or the dollar amount ... to do all the work that you did, was money transferred to you from the homeowner? A. Yes. Q. Where does it stand at the moment? 35 March 19,2014 A. Right now, it's even. He has releases from everybody—he has the signed, sealed letter from Cronin saying that everything out there is good—he's got the signed Change of Contractor form ... it's pretty much ... it's all done. Q. What about the building permit ... what if it isn't issued? A. He's going in as a private provider—he hired Alpha Building Systems to do that for him. Michael Ossorio noted the homeowner may choose to file a formal complaint with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Attorney Morey clarified: • The Contractors' Licensing Board may impose conditions upon the Respondent's ability to pull permits. • The Board is not putting the Respondent's license on probation. • The Respondent must report each time he pulls a permit during the next two years. • If there is another building code violation, his permit pulling privileges will automatically be revoked. Michael Ossorio explained the State refers building code violations to the Counties —all Code issues are deferred to the Counties. Vice Chairman Lykos asked the Respondent if he had any open permits in the County. A. No, I do not. Q. Do you have any open permits within the City of Naples? A. No. Richard Joslin: Q. With Marco Island? A. Nope. Q. Do you have any submitted? A. Yes, I have one submitted in the City of Naples. Terry Jerulle expressed his incredulity that a house could be built to the stage shown in the photographs without any regard for building permits, inspections, or the review process. He stated the Respondent either didn't understand the process or understood the process and chose to disregard it, and did not deserve to hold a license. He further stated to not suspend the Respondent's license will send a message to other home builders and subcontractors. Vice Chairman Lykos agreed. He clarified the Board could not suspend or revoke the Respondent's license, it could only revoke his permit pulling privileges within Collier County. Kyle Lantz explained without permit pulling privileges,the Respondent could not be a prime Contractor on a job—he could only work as a subcontractor in Collier County. 36 March 19,2014 Michael Ossorio stated the letter to the Executive Director of the CILB will contain a copy of the Findings of Fact and Order of the Board. He explained he could send a copy of the Findings of Fact to Fort Myers and the Respondent will not be allowed to pull permits in Lee County. The Board can impact the Respondent's business. Richard Joslin noted if the Engineer's letter that stated what had been done was done incorrectly, he would support suspending or revoking the Respondent's license. Further discussion ensued. Vice Chairman Lykos stated the Respondent chose to work outside the rules and the laws rather than find out what his options were, i.e., he could have hired a private provided to submit the proper paperwork. Terry Jerulle noted this was not the first incident involving the Respondent who had been fined and reprimanded in the past, but he still continued repeating the same error, i.e.,not obtaining required permits before starting construction. Ian Jackson referenced a previous case which began on May 10, 2012 concerning unpermitted roof repair and a/c rack installation on Sandpiper Drive. The case was closed on August 12, 2013. Vice Chairman Lykos noted revoking the Respondent's permit pulling privileges would not prevent him from working on a job that did not require a permit or partnering with a Contractor who could pull the permits while the Respondent did the work. He asked Michael Ossorio if a Contractor could be changed(substituted)during the middle of the permit review process and the response was, "Yes." Mr. Ossorio explained if a permit had been issued, the fee to change Contractors was approximately $50.00. Vice Chairman Lykos stated he supported revoking the Respondent's permit pulling privileges for a one-year period. It would not affect the Respondent's ability to earn a living. Gary McNally suggesting an additional penalty, i.e., a probationary period to become effective after the revocation period ended. Vice Chairman Lykos summarized the penalties discussed by the Board: • A one-year revocation of permit pulling privileges; • During the two-year period following the reinstatement of his permit pulling privileges, if any Building Code Official determines there has been a willful Code violation,the Respondent's permit pulling privileges will immediately be revoked. Terry Jerulle moved to approve imposing the following Sanction with regard to William B. Neuzil, d/b/a Naples Construction Group,LLC: to suspend Mr. Neuzil's permit pulling privileges for six months in Collier County, including the City of Naples, the City of Marco Island, and unincorporated Collier County. 37 March 19,2014 Additionally, the Contractor's Licensing Board will recommend to the State of Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board(CILB) that: • the Respondent reimburse the County for investigative fees incurred in the amount of$735, either voluntarily or through the State; • the State impose a fine on the Respondent in the amount of$5,000. Gary McNally offered a Second in support of the motion. Motion carried, 6— "Yes"/2— "Opposed." Richard Joslin and Ronald Donino were opposed. Vice Chairman Lykos outlined: • This cause came on for Public Hearing before the Contractors' Licensing Board on March 19, 2014 for consideration of the Administrative Complaint in Case#2014-05 filed against Richard B.Neuzil, d/b/a"Naples Construction Group, LLC." The holder of record is a State-licensed Certified General Contractor, as well as a Collier County licensed Contractor. (CGC 1508081//Certificate 201200000637). • Service of the Complaint was made in accordance with Collier County Ordinance 90-105, as amended. • The Board, at this Hearing,having heard testimony under oath,received evidence and heard arguments respective to all appropriate matters, and thereupon issued its Findings of Facts and Conclusions of Law as follows Findings of Fact: • The Respondent, William B.Neuzil, is a State-licensed Certified General Contractor, as well as a Collier County licensed Contractor. (CGC 1508081//Certificate 201200000637). • The Board of County Commissioners, Collier County, Florida, Contractors' Licensing Board is the Petitioner(Complainant) in this matter. • The Board has jurisdiction of the person of the Respondent. • Respondent, William B.Neuzil, was present at the Public Hearing and was not represented by Counsel at the Hearing held on March 19, 2014. • All notices required by Collier County Ordinance 90-105, as amended,had been properly issued and were personally delivered. • Based on the evidence presented, the Respondent acted in a manner that is in violation of Collier County Ordinances and is the one who committed the act. • The allegations of fact as set forth in Administrative Complaint as to: o Count 1,under Section 22-201.1(2) of Ordinance#90-105, as amended: "Willfully violating the applicable Building Codes or laws of the State, City, or Collier County" was found to be supported by the evidence presented at the Hearing. Conclusions of Law: • The Conclusions of Law alleged and set forth in the Administrative Complaint as to Count I were approved, adopted and incorporated herein, 38 March 19,2014 to wit: The Respondent violated Section 22-201.1(2) of Collier County Ordinance 90-105, as amended. Order of the Board: • Based upon the foregoing Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, and pursuant to the authority granted in Chapter 489, Florida Statutes, and in Collier County Ordinance 90-105, as amended, by a vote of eight (8) in favor and none (0) in opposition, a majority vote of the Board members present, the Respondent has been found in violation as set out above. • Further, it is hereby ordered by a vote of nine (6) in favor, and two (2) in opposition, a majority vote of the Board members present,that the following disciplinary Sanctions are hereby imposed upon William B.Neuzil, to wit: o Revocation of Mr. Neuzil's permit pulling privileges for a period of six months in Collier County, including the City of Naples,the City of Marco Island, and unincorporated Collier County. o The Contractor's Licensing Board will recommend to the State of Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board(CILB)that: • the Respondent reimburse the County for investigative fees incurred in the amount of$735, either voluntarily or through the State; • the State impose a fine on the Respondent in the amount of $5,000. Vice Chairman Lykos noted the case was closed. IX. REPORTS: (None) X. MEMBER COMMENTS: (None) XI. NEXT MEETING DATE: Wednesday, April 16, 2014 BCC Chambers, 3rd Floor—Administrative Building"F," Government Complex, 3301 E. Tamiami Trail,Naples, FL There being no further business for the good of the County, the meeting was adjourned by the order of the Chairman at 12:35 PM. 39 March 19,2014 COLLIER COUNTY CONTRACTORS LICENSING BOARD 4 All '' A. I_1IJ omas Lykos, Vice I .irman The Minutes were approved by the Vice Ch ' an on , 2014, _ "as submitted" [ ' 1 OR "as amended" [ . NW 40