Submitted By: Marie Mesadieu
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Presentation By: Aubrey Hale
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve a West Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant for property located at 1963 SW 3rd Street for an amount not to exceed $19,814
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Economic Hub, Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
NA
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BACKGROUND: The West 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.
In March 2024, the program was revised to include several categories for home improvements. The attached grant framework outlines elements of eligible work. Each property owner can submit one application per fiscal year. The maximum amount to be awarded is $20,000, covering up to 75 percent of the project costs.
Below is a summary of the application.
Grant Application ID #: CRA24-0004
Applicant: Wessley and Karen Woodberry
Address: 1963 SW Third St.
Project Description: Replace the existing windows with new double-hung windows with full screens. The colors will be black outside and white inside grids. Replace the perimeter fence with a four-inch black aluminum three-rail flat top or black chain link.
Low Quote: $26,418.94
Recommended Grant Amount: Not to exceed $19,814.21
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS: City staff reviewed and processed the application following the grant program guidelines and evaluation criteria. The key findings are outlined below:
• The home was built in 1975 and is the applicants’ primary residence.
• The current windows were replaced over 30 years ago and have fallen into disrepair.
• Replacing the windows will make the home energy efficient and provide added weather protection.
• Replacing the fence on the home will improve security and its appearance.
• On November 12, 2024, the Grant Review Committee (GRC) visited the home to inspect and review the project.
• The West Ocala CRA Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee) met on November 21, 2024, 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 the amount not to exceed $19,814.21.
FISCAL IMPACT: There is adequate funding for the grants being considered at this meeting. There is a balance of $699,304.33 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.
PROCUREMENT REVIEW: N/A
LEGAL REVIEW: N/A
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve with changes
• Table
• Deny