Submitted By: Marie Mesadieu
presenter
Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve an East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Residential Property Improvement Grant for property located at 1114 NE 12th Avenue, in an amount not to exceed $13,474
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Economic Hub, Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
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BACKGROUND: The East 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. This improvement aligns with the purpose of the grant program and the East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Plan (2016). According to the Findings of Necessity, there are a high number of structures with subpar quality in the East Ocala CRA
The attached grant framework outlines elements of eligible work. 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 #: CRA25-0003
Applicant: JFG Properties, LLC/Joyce Gamache
Address: 1114 NE 12th Avenue.
Parcel ID: Confidential
Project Description: Replacing the exterior windows and repainting the exterior of the property.
Low Quote: $17,965
Recommended Grant Amount: Not to exceed $13,474.
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 1954 and is used as a rental property. The owners acquired the home in 1988 and have kept it well-maintained.
• The existing windows are original to the home and have become damaged over time.
• The scope includes removing the existing windows and replacing them with energy-efficient ones.
• The home will also be pressure-washed and repainted with the same color.
• This improvement, which will increase the energy efficiency of the home, will enhance its physical appearance.
• On February 18, 2025, the Grant Review Committee (GRC) visited the home to review the proposed project.
• The East Ocala CRA Advisory Committee (Advisory Committee) met on June 25, 2025, and recommended grant approval.
• Mr. John Gamache is a member of the Advisory Committee, presenting a conflict of interest. He completed the required documentation and recused himself from voting on the committee’s decision.
• These improvements are included in the priority work elements listed in the East Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement grant framework.
• The applicant meets the requirements of the grant program and is eligible for consideration.
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 $13,474.
FISCAL IMPACT: There is adequate funding for the grants being considered at this meeting. The East Ocala CRA grants account (620-016-559-559-55-82010) has a balance of $210,685.45. 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