Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Acquisition Downtown topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Clermont approves purchase of DeHoyos parcels for downtown plan, sets 120‑day due diligence and a planning workshop
Summary
Council authorized up to $4.5 million to buy two DeHoyos properties downtown, accepted an appraisal showing $4.725 million total value, and required 120 days of due diligence and a workshop at least 20 days before the end of inspection.
The City of Clermont on Oct. 14 approved a staff‑negotiated purchase of two parcels owned by the DeHoyos family for up to $4.5 million and directed staff to complete at least 120 days of due diligence and to convene a workshop no less than 20 days before the end of the inspection period.
Why it matters: Council and downtown advocates said the parcels are a rare opportunity to shape downtown redevelopment, the art walk and the city’s “Meet Us in the Middle” project. Supporters told council the purchase is below the combined appraisal value and would let the city and community partners control future use rather than risk private redevelopment.
Purchase and terms City staff told council the seller provided an offer to sell both parcels for $4.5 million. The staff‑commissioned appraisals shown in the meeting totaled approximately $4,725,000 (about $3,240,000 for one parcel and $1,485,000 for the other). Staff recommended authorizing the city manager to proceed subject to negotiated closing terms, allocation of closing costs, and a due‑diligence period. At council direction, the motion as approved included a minimum 120‑day due‑diligence period and a requirement for a council workshop no less than 20 days before the end of that period.
Public comment and council rationale Speakers from Main Street and other downtown groups said the property purchase would allow the city to ensure compatible uses, preserve a legacy family property and support a downtown master plan; several speakers urged approval. Council members said the vote reflected new leadership’s ability to pursue long‑standing city priorities; at least one member said the council required a plan before making a final long‑term commitment to redevelopment, which is why the workshop condition was added.
What’s next Staff will complete inspections, negotiate standard buyer protections (including allocation of closing costs and the right to terminate for cause during due diligence), and present a plan and timeline to council during the required workshop before the end of the inspection period.
