Submitted By: Charlita Whitehead
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Presentation By: Charlita Whitehead
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Department: Growth Management
FORMAL TITLE:title
East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Commercial Property Improvement Grant for property located at 226 NE Sanchez Avenue, in an amount not to exceed $10,871
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BACKGROUND:
Program Objective:
The East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Commercial Property Improvement Grant supports façade modernization, signage, awnings, ADA compliance, and other exterior improvements to enhance corridor vitality and attract business investment. Funding is provided through the CRA trust fund consistent with the adopted CRA Plan and Florida Statutes (Chapter 163, Part III).
Property Information:
This property consists of a commercial parcel located at 226 NE Sanchez Avenue within the East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area and the Tuscawilla Historic District. The property was constructed in 1895, contains approximately 0.25 acres, and has a 2025 taxable value of $382,526.
Project Summary:
Grant ID: CRA26-0023
Applicant: Moses Property Holdings LLC
Applicant Representative: Joshua Moses
Address: 226 NE Sanchez Avenue
Parcel ID: 2820-049-010
Scope of Work: Parking lot improvements, including the removal of existing driveway and parking surfaces and the installation of a reinforced concrete surface.
Quotes: Low Quote: $18,118, High Quote: $20,362.39
Recommended Grant Amount: $10,871
Maximum Grant Amount:
The maximum grant amount is $50,000, covering up to 60 percent of project costs. The attached grant framework outlines the elements of eligible work.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
Eligibility Review:
Staff verified property location within the CRA, compliance with program guide, and confirmed that work will begin after approval. The scope addresses conditions of slum and blight in an area with a high share of aging housing stock and substandard structures, improving livability, visual quality and economic development prosperity.
The property is located within the Tuscawilla Historic District and is eligible for the Commercial Building Improvement Grant which covers parking lot improvements. The applicant obtained a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA25-0038), authorizing removal of the existing gravel surfaces and installation of a concrete driveway and brick paver parking area. Documentation of the approval is included in the supporting materials.
Bid Review:
Staff reviewed the two contractor estimates submitted with the application. The proposed project costs range from $18,118 to $20,362.39. Both estimates include removal and preparation of the parking and driveway area and installation of a new concrete surface. While the contractors describe the work using different methodologies and levels of detail, staff finds the estimates consistent with the proposed scope of work.
Site Visit Review:
Staff completed a site visit on June 3, 2026, and confirmed the existing site conditions and proposed scope of work. Staff observed that portions of the driveway and parking area consist of loose gravel and rock surfacing that exhibit wear and provide an inconsistent site appearance. The proposed replacement of gravel surfaces with reinforced concrete and brick pavers will improve site functionality, accessibility, durability, drainage management, and overall visual appearance while supporting continued investment in the historic property. The improvements are consistent with the previously approved COA25-0038, included in the attachments.
CRA Plan Compliance:
The proposed project aligns with the East Ocala CRA Redevelopment Plan by advancing goals to revitalize key corridors, stabilize residential neighborhoods, and preserve historic character. In accordance with Goal 3 - Improving vacant, dilapidated, and nuisance properties that are barriers to corridor and neighborhood redevelopment, and Objective 4 - Establishing programs to remediate these conditions for property reuse, this property presents an opportunity for targeted reinvestment to restore functionality and support neighborhood revitalization. Funding will be provided through the CRA Trust Fund, consistent with the adopted CRA Plan and the requirements of Florida Statutes, Chapter 163, Part III.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval. Refer to the attached Maps - CRA26-0023, Application Packet - CRA26-0023, Staff Supporting Documents - CRA26-0023 and Grant Framework.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Adequate funding is available in the East Ocala CRA Grants account 620-016-559-559-55-82010. Disbursement occurs as reimbursement after completion and verification of the approved scope of work. The payment will be made in the fiscal year when the project is completed and verified.
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
N/A
LEGAL REVIEW:
N/A
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny