East Ocala Redevelopment Advisory Committee

110 Watula Avenue Ocala Ocala FL, 34471 East Ocala Redevelopment Advisory Committee Minutes Wednesday, April 26, 2023 4:00 PM 1. Call To Order and Roll Call Present Board Member Greg Blair Board Member John Gamache Chairman Rachel Perez Board Member Ronnie Santana Jr. Excused Vice Chair Van Akin Board Member Tito Comas Board Member Karl Kunz 2. Proof of Publication The public notice for the East Ocala CRA Advisory Committee was posted on April 17, 2023. 3. Approval of February 22, 2023 Minutes February 22, 2023 minutes Attachments: East Ocala CRA AC draft minutes - 2.22.23 RESULT: APPROVED MOVER: Ronnie Santana Jr. SECONDER: Greg Blair AYE: Blair, Gamache, Perez, and Santana Jr. EXCUSED: Akin, Comas, and Kunz 5. East Ocala CRA Grant Programs CRA New Construction Grant Summary Attachments: CRA New Construction Grant Summary Apr 2023 rev Mr. Gianikas provided a brief overview of the proposed new construction grant program and stated funding will be awarded to large construction projects only. Mr. Ellis discussed the proposed new construction grant program. The goal is to fund three large construction projects annually and allocate grant award of $100,000 per year. The new construction/renovation proposed coats minimum required for the development is $1 million. The program has two conditions: applicants not eligible if they received grant funding in the past 5-years, and applicants awarded funding must wait 15-years to apply for other grants. Mr. Blair suggested adding language regarding the property owner providing 70% equity. Mr. Gianikas responded the language will be modified to state new construction Page 1 of 2 East Ocala Redevelopment Advisory Committee Minutes April 26, 2023 or renovation project must be at least $1 million. Mr. Gianikas clarified the difference between the 5-year and 15-year grant application requirement. The City is proposing within all CRAs this grant program for use.. Mr. Gamache said he is in favor the 15-year requirement. Mr. Gianikas commented the City plans on funding three projects annually for each RCA. Mr. Ellis confirmed applicants must submit invoices with their annual reports. Mr. Hale said the Chief Building Official will review/approve the permit evaluation submitted by the contractor. Each RCA Advisory Committee will evaluate grant applications on a case-by-case basis. He explained that the grant program can be used to creates a catalytic opportunity. Staff is requesting input from the Committee regarding the new grant program. Mr. Perez said the Committee favors issuing a recommendation of approval for the framework at this time. Mr. Hale explained the use of exceptions and project capping to protect the budget. Mr. Gianikas commented the staff will present more information at the next meeting. 5. East Ocala CRA Projects and Budget Updates Mr. Ellis provided a brief overview of the Brownfields program. The City was awarded $500,000 grant for Phase 1 & 2 assessments. The funds will be used to revitalize contaminated lots. The application is posted on the City's website. 6. Other Business None. 7. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 4:45 pm. Page 2 of 2