SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve a North Greenwood Commercial Grant for Tori and Timothy Charles located at 1215 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Clearwater, FL 33755 in an amount not to exceed $74,516.91 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 January 7, 2025, CRA staff received a grant application from Timothy and Tori Charles located at 1215 N Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, Clearwater, FL 33755. The application included improvements for:
• Repair Exterior Doors
• Exterior Painting
• Repave/Repair Parking Lot
• City of Clearwater H2O Meter - (Separate Water Meters)
• 3 Phase Electric (Separate Electric Meters)
• Fencing (Materials Only)
The total estimated project cost is $78,266.91. Based on program guidelines, the applicant is eligible for funding up to $75,000 and must provide a 10% match of $7,500. Up to 50% of this match may be offset through community service at a rate of one hour per $300 of the approved grant amount.
If approved the applicant will adhere to the following performance measures:
o Improvements must be maintained for at least three years:
o Section 9 of program states that improvements funded by the grant must be maintained in accordance with City policies, codes, and other applicable requirements for no less than three years.
o Proof of project completion within 365 days:
o Section 8 requires a “Finding of Project Completion” within one year of grant approval, unless an extension is granted.
o Compliance with City code and permits:
o The applicant must obtain all required permits, pass inspections, and address any existing violations through the proposed work.
o Use of licensed contractors:
o Unless doing work that doesn’t require a license, eligible improvements must be done by licensed contractors with itemized quotes and documentation.
o Annual Community Service for Match Reduction
o If the applicant is using the Community Service Credit, they are required to complete a specific number of hours prior to disbursement of grant funds.
Staff recommends approval of a grant not to exceed $74,516.91, contingent upon the completion of all required community service hours. Upon approval, CRA staff will finalize a grant agreement outlining the terms and conditions. Funds will be disbursed upon submission and review of all necessary documentation, invoices, and proof of expenditures.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are available in cost code 3897552-R2402, Business Improvement Program to fund this grant.
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.
