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OpenAI Executive Drops McLaren Permit Lawsuit, Plans Refiling After $762,000 Fine

The homeowners say promoters hid a Monterey County citation, forcing payment of the penalty before any challenge.

Overview

  • Fidji Simo and her husband initially sued McLaren Automotive and BMF Media over an unpermitted weeklong event at their Carmel Valley estate during Monterey Car Week.
  • The complaint alleges BMF told the property manager the situation was resolved while concealing that officials had issued a citation for missing permits.
  • Monterey County first fined about $505,000, then revised the penalty to $761,975, which the couple paid on Sept. 18 to preserve their right to contest.
  • The case was moved to federal court, and on Oct. 30 the plaintiffs filed a voluntary dismissal with plans to refile naming additional defendants, according to the latest filing.
  • The action asserted nine claims including fraud and intentional interference against BMF, sought damages and fees, and McLaren has not responded to requests for comment.