Submitted By: Charlita Whitehead
presenter
Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
title
Approve an East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Commercial Property Improvement Grant for property located at 1531 NE Second Street, in an amount not to exceed $6,404
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Economic Hub, Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
body
BACKGROUND:
The East Ocala CRA Commercial Property Improvement Grant encourages exterior façade improvements as a strategy to counter neighborhood deterioration and increase property values throughout the CRA.
The maximum amount that can be awarded is $20,000, covering up to 60 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 # |
CRA25-0002 |
|
Applicant |
Building Inspection Services/Joyce Gamache |
|
Address |
1531 NE Second Street |
|
Parcel ID |
Confidential |
|
Project Description |
Replace windows |
|
Low Quote |
$10,673 |
|
Recommended Grant Amount |
$6,404 |
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 building was constructed in 1948.
• The improvements will increase energy efficiency and result in savings for the tenant.
• The price difference between the two quotes is due to the additional cost of using subcontractors for the project.
• Per the applicant, the improvements would not be made without the use of the grant program, as the improvements are cost-prohibitive.
• 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 property 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. Staff recommends approval.
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