A business owner looking to occupy space in two commercial buildings in Opa-locka said he paid thousands extra—but not in real estate-related expenses.

Tire repair store operator Francisco Pujol planned to work from industrial properties at 3890 NW 132nd St. and 2695 NW 141st St., but he claimed he paid up to $20,000 in one year to city officials seeking bribes to let him set up tire disposal shops, according to a lawsuit in federal court.