Submitted By: Marie Mesadieu
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Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve a North Magnolia Commercial Building Improvement Grant for property located at 41 NE Eighth Street, in an amount not to exceed $17,511
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Economic Hub, Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
NA
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BACKGROUND: The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) North Magnolia Ocala subarea Commercial Building Improvement Grant encourages business owners to make exterior facade improvements. This initiative addresses deterioration trends, adding value to the CRA. Priority 2 of the North Magnolia CRA Plan focuses on identifying potential areas for commercial and residential development and provides funding for façade enhancements to enhance their aesthetic appeal.
The attached grant framework outlines the elements of eligible work. The program framework was revised by City staff and approved by the CRA Board on April 15, 2025, to increase the maximum grant from $10,000 to $20,000. Each property owner can submit one application per fiscal year. The maximum amount that can be awarded is $20,000, covering up to 75 percent of the project costs.
Below is a summary of the application:
Grant Application ID #: CRA25-0021
Applicant: Auto Body Contractor, Inc./ Mark Shaffer
Address: 41 NE Eighth Street
Parcel ID: 25724-019-009
Project Description: The grant request is to repair, reseal, and restripe the parking lot and install a new commercial-grade fence on the perimeter of the property.
Low Quote: $23,348
Recommended Grant Amount: $17,511
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS: City staff processed the application following the established grant program guidelines. The key findings are outlined below.
• The building was constructed in 1920 and was acquired by the applicant 43 years ago.
• The applicant was awarded a CRA grant to repaint the exterior of the building on August 17, 2021.
• The scope of the project is to install a six-foot commercial-grade fence on the perimeter of the property and to repair the parking lot. The new fence will increase curb appeal and provide added security.
• Repairing the parking lot will also enhance curb appeal and extend its longevity.
• The application meets the requirements of the grant program and is eligible for grant consideration. The proposed project aligns with Priority 2 of the North Magnolia CRA Plan, as referenced in the background section.
• The Grant Review Committee (GRC) visited the site on May 20, 2025, to review the proposed project.
• The North Magnolia CRA Advisory Committee met on May 29, 2025, and recommended approval of the grant.
The attached packet includes the application, cost estimates, and photographs of existing conditions. Staff recommends approval of the grant in an amount not to exceed $17,511.00.
FISCAL IMPACT: There is adequate funding for the grants being considered at this meeting. The North Magnolia Ocala CRA grants account (622-016-553-559-55-82010) has a balance of $123,654. 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