Ocala Contractors Board of Examiners and Appeals – March 12, 2026

The Board convened at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall, to hear one enforcement case (CON26-0003) against C Music Construction and Solar Systems LLC for unlicensed contracting and unpermitted work at 3978 SE 17th St. The homeowner, Michelle Cardacy, testified to the financial and personal burden caused by the company’s failure to obtain permits despite repeated assurances. The respondent admitted the violations but argued they were unaware that Ocala had separate licensing requirements from Marion County. After hearing evidence and testimony, the Board found the company guilty on all five counts and imposed a reduced fine of $9,315 plus $158.97 costs, payable in 60 days or reverting to the full $18,630.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Michelle Cardacy (homeowner): Described hiring C Music Construction through Angie’s List, paying a total of $18,630 ($9,315 deposit July 7, 2025; $9,315 final payment October 16, 2025) for new doors, windows, siding, and electrical work. She stated she repeatedly requested permits but was misled by the company’s claims that permits were “in progress.” She noted the stress and difficulty in finding a licensed contractor to inspect/remediate the unpermitted work, and that they cannot sell their home without permits. She expressed feeling “catfished” by the company.
• Carol Music (respondent): Admitted the company was licensed in Marion, Lake, Sumter, and other counties but not in the City of Ocala. He stated they did not know Ocala had a separate building department and that they are in the process of obtaining a state specialty license (application no. 51184, zero deficiencies remaining). He claimed the homeowners never asked about permits until after the job was finished, and that the electrical work was done as a favor at no charge. He offered to provide product approval sheets and even tear out work if needed.
• Jason Fanza (respondent): Corroborated Carol Music’s statements and emphasized that they have been transparent with the homeowner since discovering the Ocala requirement.

Discussion Items

• Presentation by Dale Hollingsworth (Chief Code Official): Detailed the investigation: site visit on Feb 9, 2026, observed completed work (doors, windows, siding, structural columns, electrical modifications). Verified no permits were ever applied for or issued. Noted that the company’s website still claims “licensed and insured” but lists a non-existent license number (CCC 25314). Recommended a fine of $18,630 (total contract amount) plus $158.97 prosecution costs.
• Testimony by Truman Henson (Chief Building Official): Noted that without permits, it is impossible to verify product approvals or proper installation (e.g., doors not installed per manufacturer specs). Stated the City requires state specialty licenses per 2025 law.
• Board deliberation: Members acknowledged the violations were clear but expressed concern for the homeowner. They discussed the gravity of the case and the need for deterrence. A motion was made to find guilt on all five counts and impose a fine at 50% of staff recommendation ($9,315) plus $158.97 costs, with a 60-day payment deadline or reversion to the full $18,630. The motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

Key Outcomes

• Verdict: C Music Construction and Solar Systems LLC was found guilty of all five violations under Ocala Code §22-151(B)(1,6,8,12,13): false advertising/holding out as contractor; engaging in unregistered contracting; commencing work without a permit; disregarding municipal ordinances; and committing acts that would be violations for a licensed contractor.
• Penalty: Fine of $9,315 (50% of the contract amount) plus $158.97 in prosecution costs, total $9,473.97. Must be paid within 60 days of March 12, 2026; if not paid, the fine reverts to $18,630 plus the same costs ($18,788.97).
• Next steps: The respondent was informed they can speak with staff after the meeting. The code official noted the unpermitted work remains in place, and the homeowner must still resolve the permitting issues.