TO: CRA Board of Commissioners
FROM: Elizabeth Burrows, Economic Development Manager
THROUGH: Jeff Costello, CRA Executive Director
DATE: July 12, 2018
Title
Curb Appeal Grant - 124 SW 8th Street (Owens)
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Recommended Action:
Recommendation
Approve a Curb Appeal Grant for the property located at 124 SW 8th Street, for an amount not to exceed $14,280.00.
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Background:
The Curb Appeal Grant Program was established by the CRA in 2007, to enhance the aesthetics of the Northwest and Southwest residential neighborhoods by facilitating minor cosmetic improvements to single-family homes. The program funds a variety of improvements, such as roof repair and replacement, landscaping, irrigation, exterior painting, and driveway improvements, with a maximum possible grant award of $15,000. The CRA Board approved two Curb Appeal grant applications at the regular meeting held on June 11, 2018. As the applications were being discussed, several questions arose regarding program utilization, recruiting efforts, and property maintenance efforts. Staff has prepared the attached memorandum to address the board’s concerns in greater detail.
Attached is a Curb Appeal Grant proposal for the property located at 124 SW 8th Street, owned by Ms. Mattie Owens. The City’s Neighborhood Services Division that administers the program evaluated the property and determined that it needs a new roof. The scope of the proposed project calls for the installation of the new roof, along with hurricane clips for added sustainability against storm force winds.
Pursuant to the City’s procurement policy, City staff requested quotes for the proposed project from qualified contractors. The sole qualified response was submitted by Leonard Graham Construction, Inc., estimating a total project cost of $13,600. Based on the applicant’s annual household income, Ms. Owens is eligible for a full grant covering 100% of the eligible project costs. The City is requesting a Curb Appeal Grant from the CRA on behalf of the homeowner, for an amount not to exceed $14,280.00, which includes a 5% contingency fee as specified by program guidelines.
If the grant is approved, the contractor will complete the specified improvements to the satisfaction of City staff, and payment will be issued after the work is approved by a final inspection. Staff recommends approval of the requested Curb Appeal grant, as it will help further the CRA mission by eliminating slum and blighted conditions in CRA Sub-Area #8 of The Set, by directly funding property improvements in the Southwest Area Neighborhood that will improve the condition of an owner-occupied single-family home, thereby adding to the stabilization of the neighborhood and enhancing the tax base.
Attachments: Exhibit A - Location Map; Exhibit B - Quote Information Sheet; Exhibit C - In-House Estimate; Exhibit D - Photos of existing conditions; Exhibit E - Memorandum re: Curb Appeal Program
CRA Attorney Review:
N/A
Finance Review:
N/A
Funding Source/Financial Impact:
$14,280.00 allocated from General Ledger #7305 - Grant Programs - Curb Appeal Assistance Grant.
Timing of Request:
N/A