Clermont council approves up to $4.5 million purchase of DeHoya properties, sets 120-day due diligence and pre-close workshop

Clermont— The City Council on Oct. 14 authorized staff to move forward with a purchase agreement to acquire two DeHoya properties for up to $4.5 million, conditions attached.

Transaction details: City Manager Rick Van Wagner told the council an offer was made Oct. 1 and the seller returned an agreement on Oct. 6 proposing sale of both parcels for $4.5 million (not to exceed). Staff said the combined property appraisal totaled $4,725,000 (one parcel appraised at $3,240,000 and the other at $1,485,000), so the proposed purchase price is below the appraised value.

Council conditions: The approving motion required a 120-day due-diligence/inspection period and directed staff to schedule a public workshop at least 20 days before the end of that period so the council and public could review options for redevelopment, the art-walk easement and potential phasing. The purchaser authorization included standard buyer protections such as negotiation of inspection rights, allocation of closing costs and the ability to terminate the contract if inspections revealed materially adverse conditions.

Public comment and support: Main Street and downtown advocates urged approval, saying the parcels present a rare opportunity to shape downtown redevelopment and the citys art-walk vision. Brian Bain told the council the purchase is a "once in a lifetime opportunity" to guide downtown development; Patrick Bianchi, speaking for Main Street, said the organization is "100% in support."

Next steps: Staff will finalize purchase contract terms, begin due diligence including inspections, and return to council as required by the workshop condition and by contract deadlines.