Inspector General: Lake Worth classified work on casino building in wrong flood zone

LAKE WORTH, Fla. - A Lake Worth revitalization project has come under scrutiny by Palm Beach County Inspector General Sheryl Steckler

After reviewing the case of the Lake Worth Beach and Casino project, the Steckler says it was classified incorrectly. 

Instead of being categorized as a rehabilitation, Steckler says it should have been considered as new construction because there was substantial improvement required.

Wes Blackman, the resident who filed the complaint that triggered the inquiry, says he just wants the city to tell the truth. 

Steckler says mistakes were made in how much work it was really going to take to refurbish the historic building and beachfront property. 

The report indicates the building was also in the wrong flood zone, while findings show extra pilings -- which are required in some areas to protect property from storm surge -- will not be necessary.

That means the city won't have to spend more money to fortify the building. 

The city calls it an honest mistake.

The project is supposed to be completed sometime next year.