SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a North Greenwood Commercial Grant for Big Jim’s and Family Barbeque, LLC located at 1303 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Clearwater, FL 33755 in an amount not to exceed $75,000 and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
On July 15, 2024, the CRA Trustees approved the North Greenwood Commercial Grant program. The Commercial Grant Program is designed to incentivize commercial property and business owners within the North Greenwood CRA to invest in building, structural, and site improvements. By offering grants of up to $75,000, this program aims to enhance the visual appeal and functionality of the area, stimulate economic growth, and create a business-friendly environment.
On November 18, 2024, CRA staff received a grant application from Big Jim’s & Family Barbeque, LLC, located at 1303 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Clearwater, FL 33755. The application included improvements for:
• Electrical/plumbing upgrades and utility connections;
• HVAC
• Interior walls (including drywall), ceilings, floors, doors, and molding;
• Interior paint;
• Certain permanent bathroom and kitchen counter tops, cabinets, sinks;
• The repair of exterior walls;
• Roof repairs or replacement
• Exterior repainting;
• Exterior windows and/or doors;
• Exterior signage;
• The installation, repair, or renovation of porches, patios, plazas;
• Parking area and driveway improvements.
CRA staff recommends the approval in an amount not to exceed $75,000 North Greenwood Commercial Grant for the businesses located at 1303 N Martin Luther King Jr Ave. The owner has a zero (0%) percent match legacy credit.
Grant funds will be dispersed contingent upon obtaining construction permits, certificate of occupancy, digital photographs of the existing structure, an estimated itemized/detailed budget, and three quotes per intended project.
Upon approval, CRA staff will work with the owners of Big Jim’s & Family Barbeque, LLC to enter into a grant agreement, that specifies the terms and conditions for accessing the grant funds in increments. All necessary construction estimates, budgets, invoices, and requested documentation must be submitted and reviewed by staff before disbursement of the funds
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in cost code 1817552-G2210, North Greenwood to fund this grant agreement.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop and retain diversified business sectors.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging.
3.2 Preserve community livability through responsible development standards, proactive code compliance, and targeted revitalization.
