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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East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Commercial Property Improvement Grant for property located at 23 NE 12th Terrace, in an amount not to exceed $9,128
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BACKGROUND:
Program Objective:
The East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Commercial Property Improvement Grant supports façade improvements, 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 features a commercial building constructed in 1928. It has a taxable value of $141,572 and sits on a 0.31‑acre lot. The building includes two tenant spaces for commercial use and is located within the East Ocala CRA district.
Project Summary:
Grant ID: CRA26-0016
Applicant: Kelli Demshock
Address: 23 NE 12th Terrace
Parcel ID: 2833-012-111
Scope of Work: Replacement of windows.
High Quote: $16,900
Low Quote: $15,212.46
Grant Amount: Not to exceed $9,128
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 conditions of slum and blight in an area with a high share of aging housing stock and substandard structures, improving livability, visual quality, and economic development prosperity. Initially, at the time of application, there were outstanding ad valorem taxes for 2025. The applicant has since paid and is in good standing, allowing the CRA grant application process to move forward.
Bid Review:
Staff reviewed the submitted contractor estimates for the proposed improvements and found them sufficiently comparable, confirming that the proposed work is consistent with the scope described in the application.
Site Visit Review:
• On June 9, 2026, staff conducted a site visit and confirmed that the proposed improvements are warranted based on current conditions. See the staff supporting documents - CRA26‑0016 for photographs of the existing windows.
• The windows on the property are in poor condition. Many do not open properly or are completely inoperable, creating safety concerns, reducing ventilation, and limiting options for emergency egress. The deteriorated frames and seals also allow air and moisture to enter the building, potentially leading to further structural damage.
• Replacing the original single-pane, pulley windows that are almost 100 years old in the commercial space will improve energy efficiency, improve attractiveness, decrease pest infestations, and reduce utility expenses.
• The proposed improvements represent reinvestment in an aging commercial property and support ongoing occupancy and preservation of the building. The applicant has already replaced some of the windows; this project will complete the remaining sections to ensure a uniform design throughout. A total of 20 windows will be replaced.
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:
CRA26-0014 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 - CRA26-0016, staff supporting documents - CRA26-0016, the grant framework, and application packet - CRA26-0016.
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