Submitted By: Charlita Whitehead
presenter
Presentation By: Roberto Ellis
end
Department: Growth Management
FORMAL TITLE:
title
East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Residential Property Improvement Grant for property located at 1030 NE Fifth Street, in an amount not to exceed $5,370
end
body
BACKGROUND:
The East Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Residential Property Improvement Grant encourages homeowners to make facade improvements, addressing neighborhood deterioration trends while adding value to the CRA.
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.
Below is a summary of the application. Refer to the attached documents for the completed application, maps, quotes, and other applicant documents.
Grant ID: CRA25-0038
Applicants: TC Opportunity LLC
Address: 1030 NE Fifth Street
Parcel ID: 2831-095-000
Project Description: This project includes the removal and replacement of existing fencing to reconfigure the rear yard for vehicle access and parking via the alley. The fencing improvement also includes installing a new gate to allow vehicle entry, creating on-site parking adjacent to the home, and providing a fully enclosed yard for children and pets.
Low Quote: $7,160
High Quote: $10,118
Recommended Grant Amount: $5,370
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
• The application meets all eligibility requirements and qualifies for grant consideration. Each property owner is limited to one application per fiscal year. The applicant previously received approval in Fiscal Year 2024-25 for window replacement and insulation upgrades at the same property under the Residential Property Improvement Grant program. These improvements have been completed.
• This 1,625 square foot home is a rental property. The current scope of work includes the removal and replacement of fencing and the installation of a gate for vehicle access from the alley. These improvements will secure the rear yard to accommodate on-site parking and a safe recreation space.
• The existing fence is a combination of wood and a chain-link fence; this will be replaced with a white vinyl privacy fence. Refer to the attached packet for images of the wooden fence's condition.
• 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 site conditions. This project directly contributes to revitalization efforts by improving property functionality, safety, and appearance.
• The Grant Review Committee (GRC) conducted a site visit on October 13, 2025, and determined that the project is a good fit for the program, consistent with the intent of CRA residential reinvestment goals.
• This application is bypassing the East Ocala CRA Advisory Committee and proceeding directly to the CRA Board due to a conflict of interest. Advisory Committee member Rachel Perez is employed by a relative of the applicant.
Staff recommends approval of the East Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant for 1030 NE Fifth Street, in an amount not to exceed $5,370.
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