Submitted By: Charlita Whitehead
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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 application to the Community Redevelopment Agency East Ocala subarea Residential Property Improvement Grant Program for the property located at 217 NE 11th Avenue, in an amount not to exceed $11,456
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Quality of Place, Economic Hub
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.
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Grant ID # |
CRA25-0004 |
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Applicant |
Robyn Noble |
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Address |
217 NE 11th Ave |
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Parcel ID |
2834-002-005 |
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Project Description |
Replace nine windows |
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Low Quote |
$15,275 |
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Recommended Grant Amount |
Not to exceed $11,456 |
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 1940. The applicant’s request will allow the replacement of nine windows that have aged, are irreparably damaged, and are not in working condition. The improvements will also enhance energy efficiency, leading to utility cost savings for the applicant.
• The windows in the front of the property have already been replaced. These nine windows will match the style and design of the existing windows, completing a significant improvement to the building. If approved, installation is scheduled to begin on June 2, 2025.
• The application meets the requirements and is eligible for grant consideration. This applicant is new to the program. Each property owner is allowed to submit one application per fiscal year.
• This improvement aligns with the purpose of the grant program and the East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Plan (2016).
• According to the Findings of Necessity, there are many structures with subpar quality in the East Ocala CRA.
• The Grant Review Committee (GRC) visited the property on February 18, 2025, and reported that the property is well maintained and a good candidate for this grant program.
Recommendation
• The East Ocala CRA Advisory Committee met on February 26, 2025, and recommended approval of the grant in the amount of $11,456. The grant was recommended with the condition that the applicant confirm the quotes for the windows provided were comparable. The applicant has since provided additional information on the product specifications to verify that both windows are similar in design and material. Please refer to the attached documents for further details.
FISCAL IMPACT: There is adequate funding for the grants being considered at this meeting, with a balance of $288,014 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