City Council

Summary

This document is a contract between the City of Ocala and Bruce Wayne Wiley LLC for housing rehabilitation services at 1917 SW 7th Place, Ocala, Florida. The contract price is $31,304.00. The work includes roof replacement, soffit and fascia repair, HVAC system installation, insulation, window replacement, electrical upgrades, pressure washing, painting, and plumbing work. The City acts as the agent for the homeowner, Geraldine Jackson, and will pay the contractor on her behalf. The contract also details responsibilities for both the contractor and the homeowner, including site cleanliness, material quality, working hours, permits, safety, and homeowner cooperation. A deferred payment mortgage in the amount of $23,428.48 was also executed between Geraldine Jackson and the City of Ocala, secured by the property, with a lien period of 15 years.

Citizen Impact

This contract provides housing rehabilitation services for a resident at 1917 SW 7th Place, improving their home's condition. The associated deferred mortgage means the homeowner has a lien on their property for the rehabilitation costs, which will be forgiven after 15 years of continuous residency.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item approves additional expenditures of $45,551.56 for a two-year renewal of Juniper support solutions for the Ocala Fiber Network, extending coverage from August 26, 2025, to August 26, 2027. This brings the total aggregate contract expenditure to $93,179. The services, provided through BlueAlly under a cooperative purchasing agreement with Carahsoft Technology Corp., include PSS Next Day Support for critical network equipment such as Juniper MX480 chassis and MPC7E-MRATE-RTU components, ensuring operational stability and performance.

Citizen Impact

This expenditure ensures the continued reliability and performance of the Ocala Fiber Network, which provides essential internet and communication services to residents and businesses. It covers necessary technical support and hardware replacement for critical network infrastructure.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item proposes an adjustment to the monthly vehicle allowances for the Mayor and City Council members in Ocala. The current allowances, which have been in place since 2001, are $150 per month for Council members and $200 per month for the Mayor. Staff recommends increasing these to $300 per month for Council members and $400 per month for the Mayor. A survey of seven Florida cities of similar size indicates that Ocala's current allowances are on the lower end compared to its peers. The proposed increase would result in an annual fiscal impact of $11,400, which is available in the City Manager's Reserve for Contingency account.

Citizen Impact

This adjustment will increase the monthly vehicle allowance for the Mayor and City Council members. The total annual fiscal impact of $11,400 will be covered by existing contingency funds, meaning there will be no direct tax increase for residents.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of Joshua DeMonte to the Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board. He is being recommended for a new three-year term, which will conclude on March 1, 2029. DeMonte has served on the board previously and is seeking reappointment.

Citizen Impact

Joshua DeMonte's reappointment means a familiar face will continue to serve on the board responsible for preserving Ocala's historic character.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of Howard Gunn and Tanya Hanks to the Ocala Housing Authority Board. Both individuals are seeking new four-year terms, which would extend their service until March 3, 2030. Howard Gunn, a retired educator and business owner with 40 years of residency in Marion County, highlights his extensive understanding of the Housing Authority's mission. Tanya Hanks, a minister and current board member, emphasizes her 25 years of community service and commitment to safe, affordable housing, noting her existing experience on the board since 2014.

Citizen Impact

The reappointment of these board members ensures continuity in the leadership of the Ocala Housing Authority, which is crucial for the ongoing development and management of affordable housing initiatives that directly benefit residents.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of Jean Floten to the Ocala Municipal Arts Commission. Her current term is expiring, and this reappointment would extend her service for a new four-year term, ending March 1, 2030. Ms. Floten's application highlights her extensive experience in arts management, fundraising for public art, and previous service on the commission.

Citizen Impact

Residents can expect continued involvement from an experienced member on the Municipal Arts Commission, who will help guide decisions on public art initiatives and cultural programming within the city.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of James Hartley to the Board of Adjustment for a new four-year term, ending March 1, 2030. Hartley, a lawyer specializing in real estate and land use, has served on the board since 2017 and has been elected Chair for multiple terms. His application highlights his extensive experience with land development codes, quasi-judicial procedures, and applying code standards to specific situations. He also serves as Chair of the Marion Cultural Alliance.

Citizen Impact

The reappointment of James Hartley ensures continuity and experienced leadership on the Board of Adjustment, which handles zoning variances and land use appeals that can affect neighborhood development and property rights.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of Kevin Steiner to the Municipal Code Enforcement Board for a new three-year term, ending March 1, 2029. Steiner has served on the board for the past six years and has extensive experience in construction and business, emphasizing a balance between code compliance and compassion. He holds a BS in Construction Management and is a State Certified Licensed Residential Contractor, Electrical Contractor, and Plumbing Contractor, and is the owner of Perfect Deed Homes in Ocala. His application indicates he is a resident of Marion County for 10 years, owns property within the City Limits, and is a registered City voter.

Citizen Impact

Kevin Steiner's reappointment means a member with six years of experience will continue to serve on the Municipal Code Enforcement Board, ensuring continuity in interpreting and applying local codes.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of Elgin Carelock and TamBoura Jenkins to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Both individuals are seeking new three-year terms, which would extend their service until March 1, 2029. Elgin Carelock, a Business Strategist and partner in a commercial real estate firm, has experience with community redevelopment projects and workforce housing initiatives. TamBoura Jenkins, a Registered Nurse and Real Estate Broker, highlights her understanding of regulations, site plans, and zoning requests from her real estate background.

Citizen Impact

The reappointment of these commissioners ensures continuity on the Planning and Zoning Commission, which reviews development projects and zoning changes. Residents can expect continued consideration of growth and housing development in the city.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of Rick Gullett to the Utility Advisory Board for a new four-year term, ending November 4, 2030. Mr. Gullett, a Division Manager at TECO Peoples Gas, has a career in natural gas utilities and seeks to apply his experience in design, construction, operations, and regulatory compliance to the advisory role. He has been involved with municipal utilities in various capacities and has resided in Ocala for 4 years.

Citizen Impact

Rick Gullett's reappointment means continued experience on the Utility Advisory Board, which advises on matters related to city utilities. Residents can expect continuity in the board's advisory capacity.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the reappointment of Robert DuMond to the Tree Commission for a new four-year term, ending March 1, 2030. Mr. DuMond has extensive experience in horticulture and landscape design, with 25 years teaching the subject and 20 years in landscape design. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Cornell University and a Master's in Education from the University of South Florida. He has been a resident of Ocala for 50 years and resides within the city limits. He is a retired educator and has previously taught landscape design classes.

Citizen Impact

Robert DuMond's reappointment to the Tree Commission ensures continuity in the commission's work, which involves advising on the city's tree canopy and urban forestry initiatives.

Confidence

high

Summary

This document contains the minutes from the February 3, 2026, Ocala City Council meeting. Key discussions and actions included:

• Denial of Ordinance 2026-5: A proposed amendment to allow above-ground air curtain incinerators as an ancillary use at materials recovery facilities was denied after significant public and council debate regarding environmental, health, and land use concerns. Opponents cited potential air quality impacts, proximity to residential areas, and conflicts with revitalization goals, while proponents highlighted the technology's efficiency and cleaner alternative to open burning.
• Approval of West Oak Development Agreements: The Council approved a Concurrency Development Agreement, a Conceptual Subdivision Plan, and a Residential Developer's Agreement for the West Oak development, encompassing approximately 198.80 acres.
• Contracts Approved: Several contracts were approved, including:
  • Transformers purchase with Stuart C. Irby Company, LLC, and Gresco Supply, Inc. for up to $13,000,000.
  • Additional tire, tube, and service expenditures for $185,000 (aggregate $460,000).
  • Two-year renewal for pavement rejuvenation services with Pavement Technology, Inc., up to $1,000,000.
  • Fire hydrant and valve installation, repair, and maintenance with R & M Service Solutions LLC. for up to $974,464.
  • Additional tree trimming and removal services with Marion Tree Trimming and Stump Removal, LLC, and Flyway Access, LLC, for $513,000 (aggregate $1,854,980).
  • One-year renewal for grounds maintenance with Extreme Enterprises of Marion County, Inc., for $170,888.
• Utility Cost Impact: The Chief Financial Officer reported that extreme cold weather caused significant costs for electric utilities, totaling approximately $2.3 million in emergency power purchases. However, Ocala Electric customers will not face rate increases due to the city's rate stabilization reserve, though individual bills may be higher due to increased usage.
• Ocala Fiber Network (OFN) Update: The CFO provided an update on OFN's fiber expansion, adding 850 new customers in the past year. Discussions also touched upon an unsolicited offer to purchase OFN, with council members emphasizing the need for a thorough valuation process before any decision is made.

Citizen Impact

Residents will see continued development in the West Oak area. While a proposed ordinance for air curtain incinerators was denied, potentially easing concerns about local air quality, the city incurred significant costs due to extreme cold weather impacting utilities, though direct rate increases are not planned. Several contracts for essential services like transformers, road maintenance, and tree trimming were approved.

Confidence

high

Summary

This ordinance proposes to rezone approximately 2.26 acres located in the 1400 block of NE 14th Street (Parcel 26496-005-00 & 26496-005-01) from RO (Residential Office) and R-1 (Single Family Residential) to R-3 (Multi-Family Residential). The subject properties are currently undeveloped. The proposed R-3 zoning allows for single-family, two-family, and multi-family residential development, with a maximum building height of 50 feet, compared to the existing 35-foot limit in R-1 and RO districts. Staff analysis indicates this rezoning is consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan's Low Intensity Future Land Use designation, which encourages mixed-use development and supports higher-intensity uses along major arterial roadways like SR 492 (NE 14th Street). The surrounding area has a mix of uses, including institutional properties to the east, west, and south, and other multi-family zoning to the north across SR 492. The City's Land Development Code provides mechanisms for site design, buffering, and height transitions to ensure compatibility with surrounding uses.

Citizen Impact

This rezoning could lead to the development of multi-family housing on the subject properties. Residents may see an increase in housing density and potentially taller buildings (up to 50 feet) in the area, which could impact traffic and neighborhood character.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns a request to rezone approximately 30.49 acres located at 5019 W Silver Springs Blvd and an adjacent parcel to the east (Parcel IDs 23180-000-00 & 23176-003-00) from PD, Planned Development, to M-1, Light Industrial. The property is currently designated as 'Employment Center' in the Future Land Use Element. The existing PD zoning, approved via Resolution 2025-6 and Ordinance 2025-7 in November 2024, allowed for up to 468 multi-family residential units and 180,991 sq ft of commercial/retail space. The proposed M-1 zoning aligns with the surrounding industrial and heavy commercial uses and the 'Employment Center' land use designation, which permits industrial, office, and commercial primary uses. Residential uses are not permitted under M-1 zoning. The three existing single-family residences on the property are non-conforming and must be removed prior to further development under M-1 zoning. The surrounding area is predominantly M-1 zoning and industrial uses, with W Silver Springs Boulevard (SR 40) operating above its adopted Level of Service (LOS) for traffic, though further analysis will be required at the time of site plan review.

Citizen Impact

This rezoning changes the potential future use of the 30.49-acre property from mixed-use residential/commercial to light industrial. Residents living near the property may experience increased industrial activity and traffic associated with M-1 zoning, and the existing single-family homes on the site will become non-conforming.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the sale of beer, wine, and liquor for on-premise consumption at Paddock Market, located at 3100 SW College Road, Unit 300. The business, 3100 College Road Holdings, LLLP, is requesting an alcohol permit. The property is approximately 12.03 acres and is zoned for SC (Shopping Center). The application indicates the business will operate from 10 AM to 2 AM daily. The site plan shows various food preparation areas and a bar, with seating for an estimated 614 patrons.

Citizen Impact

Residents can expect a new establishment serving alcohol for on-premise consumption at the Paddock Market location. This may lead to increased foot traffic and potential changes in neighborhood activity related to the business's operating hours.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item authorizes the purchase of Sulzer pumps and related equipment from Hydra Services Inc. for the Water Resources Department. The estimated annual expenditure is $250,000. This purchase aligns with the city's strategy to standardize on specific pump brands for operational efficiency and maintenance familiarity, particularly for high-velocity conditions encountered at certain lift stations like LS 146. Hydra Services, Inc. is the sole distributor for Sulzer pumps in Florida, and this procurement has undergone a sole source approval process. The funds will be used for inventory replacement and specific projects at various lift stations, including LS 089, LS 132, and LS 152.

Citizen Impact

This purchase ensures the continued reliable operation of the city's wastewater system, preventing potential service disruptions. Residents will not see a direct increase in costs as this expenditure is part of the existing Water Resources Department budget.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City of Ocala has been awarded a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for Fiscal Year 2025 totaling $510,378.00. This federal grant, provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), is intended to support the development of viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income. The grant agreement outlines the terms and conditions for the use of these funds, including compliance with federal laws, regulations, and reporting requirements. The period of performance and budget period for this grant are set to end on September 30, 2033.

Citizen Impact

This federal grant of $510,378 will fund community development projects in Ocala, aiming to improve housing, living environments, and economic opportunities, particularly for low and moderate-income residents.

Confidence

high

Summary

This document is a Federal Award Agreement between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the City of Ocala for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. The agreement appropriates $510,378 for Fiscal Year 2025, with a performance period and budget period ending on September 30, 2033. The CDBG program aims to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income. The agreement details various policy and program-specific requirements, including environmental review, prohibition on using eminent domain for private economic benefit, and compliance with federal anti-discrimination and immigration laws. The City of Ocala is the recipient, identified by Unique Entity Identifier UB1YHBV4B5T8.

Citizen Impact

This federal grant of $510,378 will fund community development projects in Ocala aimed at improving housing, living environments, and economic opportunities for low and moderate-income residents. Specific projects are not detailed in this award agreement, but the funds are intended to benefit the community.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City of Ocala is considering a five-year lease renewal with the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) for the Brick City Center for the Arts at 23 SW Broadway St, effective March 1, 2026, through February 28, 2031. The lease maintains a nominal rent of $100.00 per month, with MCA responsible for utilities, taxes, and most maintenance. As the designated local arts agency, MCA utilizes the facility as its headquarters, a public gallery, and an event space, offering art education, exhibitions, and sales. MCA has demonstrated significant community impact, welcoming over 229,000 residents and visitors since 2001, showcasing 1,250 local artists, and awarding $635,000 in cultural grants. The organization also drives downtown economic activity, with an estimated $572,772 annual economic impact, and provides free use of the facility for City events, enhancing a key public asset.

Citizen Impact

This lease renewal ensures the continued operation of a vibrant downtown arts center, providing residents with free access to diverse art exhibits, educational programs, and cultural events. It supports local artists and creative businesses, contributes to downtown economic vitality, and enhances Ocala's cultural identity and quality of life.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City of Ocala is entering into a Construction Services Agreement with FSV Construction Company for the renovation and expansion of the Ocala Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center. The total contract amount is $992,054. The project involves significant demolition and architectural construction to create new rooms and modify existing spaces, including an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and a Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). The scope also includes upgrades to electrical systems, data and communications cabling, card access systems, fire protection, HVAC, and finishes. The project requires the contractor to obtain all necessary permits and adhere to strict safety and background check requirements for all personnel working on-site. The anticipated completion time is 150 days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed.

Citizen Impact

This contract will enhance the Ocala Police Department's capabilities by upgrading their Real Time Crime Center, which is intended to improve response to critical incidents and criminal investigations, ultimately aiming to provide a greater level of service and safety to the citizens of Ocala.

Confidence

high

Summary

The city council is considering the purchase of six 250 kVA regulators from Sunbelt Solomon Services, LLC for a total of $105,084. These regulators are remanufactured units, meaning they are reconditioned to meet original specifications. The quote specifies that these are for the Ocala Electric Utility and are expected to ship within 5-7 weeks after order placement. The offer is valid for 30 days.

Citizen Impact

This purchase is for utility equipment and does not have a direct impact on residents' daily lives or finances, as it is an operational expense for the electric utility.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Ocala Police Department is set to acquire a new 2026 Ford Transit T-350 Extended Length Cargo Van for $148,885. This purchase is being made through a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing agreement with Alan Jay Fleet Sales. The van is a specialized unit, featuring extensive aftermarket modifications for use as a mobile command center or specialized unit, including workstations, storage for electronics, multiple power outlets, and communication equipment.

Citizen Impact

This purchase will equip the Ocala Police Department with a specialized vehicle, potentially enhancing their response capabilities for various incidents. No direct cost to residents is indicated, as the purchase is funded through an existing agreement.

Confidence

high

Summary

Resolution 2026-14 amends an existing Public Transportation Grant Agreement (G3C35) with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for the Ocala International Airport - Jim Taylor Field.\n\nKey Changes:\n* Increased Funding: The total project cost is increased by $597,857, raising the revised total to $1,277,007.\n* FDOT Contribution: FDOT's participation increases by $478,285, bringing their total to $1,021,605, maintaining an 80% share of eligible costs.\n\nThis additional funding supports the design and construction of essential airport infrastructure, including a concrete containment pad for future fuel tanks, an aircraft wash rack (with an oil/water separator), and a concrete parking pad for four airport operations/maintenance trucks. The original agreement was entered on May 18, 2025, and the project is expected to be completed by June 1, 2028.

Citizen Impact

This funding increase will enhance the operational efficiency and maintenance capabilities at Ocala International Airport, contributing to safer and more effective airport services. The project is primarily funded by state grants, meaning no direct local tax increase for residents.

Confidence

high

Summary

This report details 15 fully executed contracts under $50,000 by the City of Ocala between January 19, 2026, and February 1, 2026. These agreements cover a range of city operations and services, including:

• Airport Hangar Leases: Three month-to-month T-Hangar lease agreements were executed for Ocala International Airport: Julian Johnson (Unit T-63, $340.48/month), Dan Engberson (Unit T-93, $427.82/month), and Michael Boyer (Unit T-78, $427.82/month).
• Demolition Services: Two contracts for demolition and removal of structures were approved: C.P. Danner Construction, Inc. for $8,500 at 826 NW 6th Ave, and Reyes Homes and Construction, LLC for $8,900 at 1744 NW 4th Street. Both include site clearing and grading.
• Fine Arts Appraisal: Bluett Art Appraisers, LLC was contracted for $14,595 to appraise 91 public artworks across various city locations for insurance/replacement value.
• Industrial Design & Metal Fabrication: A one-year renewal with Zeak Technique, Inc. for services not to exceed $15,000.
• Water Feature Maintenance: A one-year renewal with Touch of Paradise Designs, Inc. for maintenance at M.O.M.S. Park for up to $11,000.
• Keynote Speaker: CAL Entertainment, Inc. (F/S/O Rodney Mullen) was contracted for $12,000 to provide a keynote speech at the Ocala Skate Park Grand Re-Opening on March 28, 2026.
• Reverse Vendor Fair: The City will host a "Reverse Tradeshow" at the College of Central Florida for $1,585.20 on August 14, 2026.
• Bus Shelter Redesign: Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc. received a work order for $12,586.48 to redesign a bus shelter at 1801 SE 32nd Ave.
• Radio Tower UPS System: Unified Power will install a Toshiba 18kVA UPS system at the Ocala Police Department's 800MHz Tower Site for $28,685.39.
• Police Software/Hardware Support: DataWorks Plus will provide $14,441.00 in software and hardware support for the Ocala Police Department.
• Fiber Network Consulting: Uptown Services, LLC's consulting agreement for the Ocala Fiber Network was renewed for an additional year.
• Net-Metering Agreement: Peggy Thierheimer entered into a Tri-Party Net-Metering Power Purchase Agreement for her customer-owned renewable generation system to offset electricity consumption.

Citizen Impact

These contracts ensure the continued operation and maintenance of city facilities like the airport, parks, and police infrastructure. Residents will see improvements in public spaces through park maintenance and bus shelter redesigns, and benefit from the demolition of unsafe structures in neighborhoods. The Net-Metering agreement allows a resident with solar panels to reduce their electricity costs by selling excess power back to the grid.

Confidence

high