Submitted By: Charlita Whitehead
presenter
Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve an East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Residential Property Improvement Grant for property located at 428 NE Seventh Terrace, in an amount not to exceed $20,000
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Economic Hub, Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
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BACKGROUND:
The East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Residential Property Improvement Grant encourages homeowners to make exterior facade improvements, addressing neighborhood deterioration trends while adding value to the CRA.
The maximum amount that can be awarded is $20,000, covering up to 75 percent of the project costs. The attached grant framework outlines the elements of eligible work.
Below is a summary of the application. The entire application packet is attached.
|
Grant ID # |
CRA25-0009 |
|
Applicant |
JFG Properties/ Joyce Gamache |
|
Address |
428 NE Seventh Terrace |
|
Parcel ID |
Confidential |
|
Project Description |
This project includes replacing the original roof, painting the exterior of the home, and removing trees and debris. |
|
Low Quotes Total |
$30,089 |
|
Recommended Grant Amount |
$20,000 |
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
Staff reviewed and processed the application in accordance with the
grant program guidelines and evaluation criteria. The key findings are outlined below:
• The home was built in 1918 and has a galvanized metal roof.
• The roof shows visible signs of aging and has experienced weather and time-related deterioration, increasing the potential for leaks and reduced insulation and energy efficiency.
• This improvement will increase structural integrity and enhance weather protection.
• The exterior paint has faded and is chipped and discolored in places. Pressure washing the home and refreshing the paint will restore the home's aesthetic appeal and also provide a protective barrier against moisture and sun damage, extending the lifespan of the house.
• The landscaping improvements will include the removal of two laurel oaks and a dead palm tree, as well as the grinding of stumps. These trees may pose a risk to nearby structures and could cause excessive debris.
• The roof will be replaced with another metal roof.
• The application meets the requirements and is eligible for grant consideration.
• The property is owned by JFG Properties, which is affiliated with the family of Mr. John Gamache, a member of the East Ocala CRA Advisory Committee. Mr. Gamache appropriately recused himself from any discussion or vote related to this matter and submitted Form 8B in accordance with the procedures for addressing voting conflicts.
• The Grant Review Committee (GRC) visited the property on February 18, 2025. The home was found to be well-maintained and a good candidate for the grant program.
• The East Ocala CRA Advisory Committee reviewed and recommended approval on July 25, 2025.
Please refer to the attached documents for the application packet, completed Conflict of Interest Form 8B, and the approved grant framework.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is adequate funding for the grants being considered at this meeting, with a balance of $227,975.45 in the East Ocala CRA grants account (620-016-559-559-55-82010). The payment will be made in the fiscal year when the project is completed.
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
N/A
LEGAL REVIEW:
N/A
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny