Submitted By: Roberto Ellis
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Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
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Department: Growth Management
FORMAL TITLE:
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West Ocala Community Redevelopment Area commercial property improvement grant for property located 3711 SW College Road, in an amount not to exceed $50,000
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Quality of Place, Economic Hub
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
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BACKGROUND:
Program Objective: The West Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program supports façade modernization, signage, awnings, ADA compliance, and other 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).
Project Summary:
Grant ID: CRA26-0024
Applicant: Walla Coffee CO, LLC - Jordan Matson/Kendall Drake
Address: 3711 SW College Road, Ocala, FL 34471
Parcel ID: 23754-000-00
Scope of Work: New construction on vacant property - site work improvements for a modular coffee shop. The scope includes, but is not limited to, entrances, pavement, sidewalks, landscaping, site lighting, utilities, the foundation for the modular unit, and parking lot signage.
Low Quote: $220,748
High Quote: $248,058
Recommended Grant Amount: $50,000
Property Information: This property is currently vacant and is located along a major corridor in the CRA, SR 200, in close proximity to I‑75. The property is owned by RITI INVESTMENTS LLC, which has provided authorization to the applicant in support of the grant request. The property will be leased to the applicant. It totals 0.84 acres and has a taxable value of $583,610, contributing approximately $4,656 in ad valorem taxes to the CRA annually.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
• Staff completed a site visit on May 13, 2026, and confirmed the scope and quotes. Staff observed that the scope of work is warranted given the existing conditions at the site.
• The proposed scope of work is eligible for a CRA grant, as the successful completion of improvements to the vacant property will lead to a projected increase in taxable value. The property fronts along SR 200 and is located in close proximity to the I‑75 gateway. The proposed site improvements will enhance the visual appearance of the area as viewed from the street. Refer to the renderings provided by the applicant.
• Walla Coffee will bring a new business establishment to the CRA that attracts customers, supports nearby businesses, increases activity, and strengthens overall corridor revitalization.
• The property is currently zoned, B2: Community Business. The applicant submitted a site plan which is currently under review by the staff.
• The previous building, a convenience store and gas station, was demolished in 2016, and the owner later removed gas storage tanks in 2019. This project marks the final step to redeveloping the site.
• West Ocala: The proposed project aligns with the West Ocala CRA Redevelopment Plan, supporting goals to enhance gateways, and remediate blighted properties. In accordance with Goal 1 - Coordinate public and private resources to increase private capital investment on commercial corridors, and Objective 4 - Expand the city’s business revitalization grant program, this project promotes reinvestment in residential and commercial properties. Funding is provided through the CRA trust fund consistent with the adopted CRA Plan and Florida Statutes (Chapter 163, Part III).
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval. Refer to the attached application packet and staff supporting documentation.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Adequate funding is available in the West Ocala CRA Grants account 623-016-560-559-55-82010. 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