Submitted By: Charlita Whitehead
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Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
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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: Replacement of the existing gravel driveway with a reinforced concrete driveway.
High Quote: $20,362.39
Low Quote: $18,118
Recommended Grant Amount: Not to exceed $10,871
Maximum Grant Amount: $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 the property’s location within the CRA, compliance with the program guide, and confirmed that work will begin after approval. The scope addresses slum and blight conditions in an area by improving visual quality and economic 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 the removal and preparation of the parking and driveway area, as well as the installation of a new concrete surface. While the contractors describe the work using different methodologies and levels of detail, staff find 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 are worn and create an inconsistent site appearance. The proposed replacement of gravel surfaces with reinforced concrete will improve site functionality, accessibility, durability, drainage management, and overall visual appearance while supporting continued investment in the historic property. During the site visit, the applicant also discussed additional site modifications that are not eligible for funding under the Historic Building Improvement Grant Program. These modifications are not included in the proposed grant scope of work. 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.
CRA Advisory Committee Recommendation:
CRA26-0023 was presented to the East Ocala CRA Advisory Committee on June 24, 2026. The Committee recommended approval of the application.
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