Submitted By: Edwin R. Carreras Rivera, Esq.
presenter
Presentation By: Edwin R. Carreras Rivera, Esq.
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Department: Growth Management
FORMAL TITLE:
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North Magnolia Community Redevelopment Area Commercial Property Improvement Grant, 1811 NE Jacksonville Rd, in an amount not to exceed $17,233
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Economic Hub, Quality of Place
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
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BACKGROUND:
Program Objective: The North Magnolia Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Commercial Property Improvement Grant supports façade modernization, 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).
Project Summary:
Grant ID: CRA26-0021
Applicant: Exit Plan Investment, LLC
Address: 1811 NE Jacksonville Rd
Parcel ID: 26141-000-00
Scope of Work: The proposed project involves the renovation and modernization of the building to accommodate a new engineering firm. The scope of work includes replacement of the front doors and windows, updating light and electrical fixtures, and fresh exterior of building painting.
High Quotes: $33,820
Low Quotes: $22,977
Recommended Grant Amount: $17,233
Property Information: This property is a commercial building constructed in 1950. It has a taxable value of $125,271, a structure size of 3,780 square feet and is situated on a 0.19-acre lot. The building layout includes office spaces, bathrooms, and an open area. On August 7, 2018, a different business owned the property. Rusty Nails of Ocala operated at this location and was awarded a Commercial Improvement Grant (CRA18‑0011) in the amount of $2,250.00 for improvements that included awning installation, signage, and resealing/restriping of the parking lot.
Maximum Grant Amount: The maximum grant amount is $20,000, covering up to 75 percent of project costs. The attached grant framework outlines the elements of eligible work.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
Eligibility Review: Staff verified property location within the CRA, compliance with 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 stock and substandard structures, visual quality and economic development prosperity.
Site Visit Review: Staff conducted a site visit on May 11, 2026, and confirmed that the scope of work and contractor estimates accurately reflect the improvements required to renovate the building and convert into a fully functional commercial office.
The proposed project consists of a comprehensive renovation and modernization of the building to support the occupancy of a new engineering firm. Planned improvements include the replacement of exterior doors and windows, installation of updated lighting and electrical fixtures, and fresh exterior painting. Cleaning and preparing exterior surfaces for painting will enhance durability and visual quality, directly supporting CRA façade improvement objectives. Repainting the commercial façade will further elevate corridor aesthetics and strengthen tenant attraction, aligning with the CRA’s broader commercial improvement goals.
These upgrades are essential to enhancing the building’s functionality, safety, energy efficiency, and overall aesthetic appeal. Collectively, the improvements will ensure the property is fully prepared for commercial use and capable of supporting long-term business operations.
The new owners acquired the property in April 2026 and are constructing an engineering professional office on the site. In addition to the work proposed in this grant application, they will also be completing further improvements including roof replacement, interior electrical upgrades, and office build‑out representing an total private investment of $115,895. Property taxes are current and fully paid.
CRA Plan Compliance: North Magnolia: The proposed project is consistent with the North Magnolia CRA Redevelopment Plan, advancing goals to stabilize commercial corridors, encourage redevelopment, and improving neighborhood aesthetics. In alignment with Goal 4 - Economic Development: Maintain an economically sound industrial/business area, Objective 4.1 - Enhance the commercial tax base and promote business development. 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 materials for this case, including the CRA26‑0021 Case Map and Aerial Map, the Staff Supporting Documents, the North Magnolia CRA Commercial Framework, and the CRA26‑0021 Application Packet.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funding: Adequate funding is available in the North Magnolia CRA Grants account 622-016-553-559-55-82010. Disbursement will be provided 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