Submitted By: Roberto Ellis
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Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve an Environmental Site Assessment for property located at 1535 N. Magnolia Avenue
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BACKGROUND:
In 2022, the City of Ocala was awarded a brownfields assessment grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Environmental site assessments seek to direct revitalization to some of the most economically disadvantaged portions of Ocala and generate interest in ideally located properties overlooked due to socioeconomic and environmental stigmas.
Per the approved Brownfields Assessment Cooperative Agreement Work Plan, the City shall ensure that all Phase I site characterizations and assessments conducted with the grant funding be performed in accordance with EPA's standard for all appropriate inquiries. Refer to the applicant information below and in the attached packet.
Applicant Name: Early Iron Enterprises LLC
Address: 1535 N. Magnolia Ave (26158-001-00)
Project Description: Renovation of the building into a classic car restoration shop and a retail space for local artisans to showcase and sell handmade goods.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
* The applicant acquired the property in July 2025 and plans to renovate it for adaptive reuse, transitioning from its former function as an automotive tire repair and service station. The unit identified by the address 1535 N. Magnolia Ave, will be dedicated to restoring cars from the 1930s and 1940s, while the second unit will house the "North Magnolia Collective", a venue where local artisans can showcase and sell their work.
* Phase I ESAs have a limited shelf life (generally 180 days), particularly if the property has near-term cleanup or development plans. The timing of Phase I completion or update may be sensitive and relate to property acquisition or redevelopment.
* This proposed project aims to draw more consistent foot traffic to the No...
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