There is trouble brewing at The Palms of Destin Resort and representatives from the owners association are looking for city leaders to intervene.
“We’re asking that the city help its owners and residents because it’s the right thing to do,” said Steve Lamas, who made a presentation to the City Council Monday night. “We ask you to do so now and without any further delay.”
Based on his presentation, Lamas is accusing the “BK Club,” (Becnel/Kelly Club, LLC), the properties owners, of a series of violations to the entities declaration of restrictive covenants and easements. These range from issues with restricted parking and fees, illegal signage, and a “monopoly” on utilities, such as TV, phone and internet.
Lamas said for the past 2 ½ years, the east parking lot on the property has been blocked and chained off so residents couldn’t use the area.
“Several of us have personally witnessed and photographed the illegal towing of many vehicles from the east parking lot,” he said. Also, that on several occasions, we’ve witnessed the blocking of two levels of the parking garage for ‘Club’ events.”
“Shall we talk about the countless handicapped individuals who had to traverse the Palms parking garage, lobby and the ‘Club’s’ quarters to get to their residence in the East tower of the Palms,” Lamas added.
As he discussed the issues they were having, Lamas alleged that the city and its legal team allowed some of the problems with signage and parking to occur.
A specific example includes the northeast gate to the East parking lot, which Lamas says they are unclear whether a city permit was issued to construct.
“It seems no permit exists,” he said. “Therefore we would have to ask whether that gate will be removed or a fine would be placed.”
Before Lamas addressed the council, City Attorney Jerry Miller told city leaders that it would be best for them to listen to what Lamas had to say, but not to ask questions or reply to his remarks. He said the matter at hand is a code enforcement issue, not something the city council has jurisdiction over.
This is the second time representatives from The Palms have spoken to city leaders about concerns, as they went to court earlier this year after alleging that developer Damon Becnel had threatened to shut down phone service, access to the resort’s pool, fitness center and garbage if the homeowners association didn’t pay outstanding dues.
Circuit Court Judge John Brown ruled against them, saying “there is an adequate remedy of law, the association can continue to make payments.”
Public Information Manager Doug Rainer told The Log the city staff and city manager is aware of the concerns and they have met with the representatives from The Palms on a few occasions. He said the city has discussed how to move forward with the owners.
Damon Becnel could not be reached for comment before press time.