Owner of 24/7 Automotive told to remove trailers, clear outside storage at Cooper Street property

The Punta Gorda Code Enforcement Board on May 28 found the property at 415 Cooper Street, owned by 24/7 Automotive Performance LLC (care of Christopher Chase), in violation of multiple sections of the Punta Gorda Code — including fence repair, outside storage and multiple‑axle trailer parking — and issued a cease‑and‑desist order and a 30‑day compliance deadline.

Code Compliance Officer Frank Coppinger submitted 23 photos and described repeated inspections beginning in January 2025. He said a fence in disrepair had been removed by May 27, but outside storage including tires, metal railings and a multiple‑axle trailer remained. He submitted case costs of $26.47.

Owner Christopher Chase appeared and disputed some photographs, saying most material shown had been removed and that the remaining trailer and an old tractor tire would be taken to the dump imminently. Chase said he had spent substantial funds on repairs and that the large tractor tire "has only been there probably since before I was born." The board pressed staff about whether the notices listed specific offending items and confirmed the notices are in the record.

After finding a prima facie case, board members voted to find violation of Punta Gorda Code chapters 26 § 8.5(b)(2)(f), 26 § 8.1 and 9 § 9.2(a), issued a cease‑and‑desist order, ordered compliance within 30 days and required payment of $26.47 in case costs within 30 days. The board warned fines up to $250 per day plus interest for failure to comply.

Staff told the owner where to pay case costs at the City Clerk's Office. The board thanked Chase for his attendance and willingness to comply; staff will re‑inspect the property to confirm removal of the remaining trailer, tire and outside storage.