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CRA approves up to $50,000 grant for The Pointe Church exterior and parking improvements
Summary
Cocoa Beach CRA voted 4-0 to approve a commercial visual improvement grant of up to $50,000 for The Pointe Church to remove a defunct drive-through, repair the rear parking lot and make other exterior repairs; commissioners debated tax-exempt status and grant eligibility before approval.
The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) of Cocoa Beach approved a commercial visual improvement grant of up to $50,000 to The Pointe Church in a vote that passed 4-0.
Derek Howell, lead pastor of The Pointe Church, presented photos of exterior damage and explained the project would remove a nonfunctional drive-through, repair the parking lot and address stucco and flashing damage. Howell said the church purchased the property in 2021, renovated the interior and now seeks exterior improvements that the church says will improve walkability and visibility along the commercial corridor.
Commissioners and staff examined eligibility because The Pointe is a nonprofit and has applied for tax-exempt status; some commissioners noted the church pays ad valorem taxes on the parcel according to the Brevard County property appraiser. Staff and the city attorney confirmed CRA grant criteria require that the property pay ad valorem taxes; commissioners said their review of the property appraiser record showed the parcel does pay taxes and so met the criterion.
Staff explained the CRA grant structure: the city reimburses up to 50% of eligible expenses, capped at $50,000. Deputy Finance Director Devin Talley and CRA staff told commissioners that recipients must submit receipts and that the city pays 50% of actual expenditures up to the cap. Commissioners noted recipients typically must provide three contractor bids or justification when fewer are available.
During discussion, commissioners emphasized the CRA’s mission of redeveloping blighted areas and agreed the building’s condition met that objective. A commissioner said the grant would improve the overall appearance of the area and help local businesses by drawing more visitors to the corridor.
The commission made a motion to approve the grant application and, after a second and brief public comment, voted to approve the award up to $50,000. Staff will monitor compliance with grant rules, require documentation of expenses, and follow CRA procedures for disbursement.
The CRA discussed but did not change the grant program cap at the meeting; commissioners asked staff to place possible program changes on a future agenda.
