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 Residential Property Improvement Grant for property located at 837 NE Second Street, in an amount not to exceed $20,000
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BACKGROUND:
The East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Residential Property Improvement Grant encourages homeowners to make facade improvements, addressing neighborhood deterioration while adding value to the CRA.
The maximum grant amount is $20,000, covering up to 75 percent of eligible project costs. The attached grant framework outlines the elements of eligible work.
Below is a summary of the application. Refer to the attached documents for the completed application, maps, quotes, and other applicant documents.
Grant ID: CRA25-0050
Applicants: Jody Talmadge
Address: 837 NE Second Street
Parcel ID: 2820-044-003
Project Description: Installing a new fence and making landscaping improvements.
High Quote: $41,727
Low Quote: $30,539
Recommended Grant Amount: $20,000
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
• The application meets all eligibility requirements and qualifies for grant consideration. Each property owner may submit one application per fiscal year.
• The home was built in 1932. The applicant has lived there for 18 years and runs a hair salon from the property.
o In Fiscal Year 2024-25, the applicant was awarded a grant to replace the HVAC system, reroof, and repaint the building. The project is 90 percent complete.
• The proposed improvement aligns with the objectives of the grant program and supports the East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Plan (2016). As noted in the Findings of Necessity, the East Ocala CRA contains numerous substandard structures, and this project contributes to the area's revitalization.
• The Grant Review Committee (GRC) visit took place on December 4, 2025. The GRC agrees that the proposed improvements will significantly enhance curb appeal and add to the neighborhood's character.
o The existing fence is made of wood and has suffered wear and tear. Sections of the fence lack the support needed to remain upright, and it is also discolored.
o Landscaping improvements will significantly enhance the property’s appearance. Currently, the front yard is open and visible from the street.
• Per the program guidelines, the proposed work items are eligible to be funded at a 75 percent match. Staff recommends approval of the grant, in an amount not to exceed $20,000.
• The proposed scope represents a comprehensive project to restore the home to good condition. Staff recommends approval in an amount not to exceed $20,000.
• During the East Ocala Advisory Committee meeting on December 17, 2025, members expressed concerns regarding the size and scale of the plants proposed in the landscaping plan. The applicant attended the meeting and stated that she intends to consult with the UF/IFAS Florida Master Gardener Program to refine plant selection and placement. The committee also discussed maintaining a three-foot buffer between any new plantings and the home’s exterior, noting that vegetation placed directly against the wood structure could contribute to deterioration. The committee was supportive of the project and recommended approval of CRA25-0050
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is adequate funding for the grants under consideration at this meeting 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
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny