Board approves renovation and enlarged garage at 514 Southeast Eighth Street

The Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior renovations at 514 Southeast Eighth Street, including removal and replacement of a two-story rear addition and replacement of a detached garage.

Bria Miller, Planner II, presented the application and said the property’s primary house — a contributing structure constructed in 1918 in a frame vernacular style — will have a rear addition replaced and a detached garage rebuilt “using similar materials for both alterations.” She told the board staff found the alterations “consistent with the certificate of appropriateness criteria for decision, section 94-82(g), as well as the certificate of appropriateness criteria for decision section 94-83 which is for our demolition process,” and recommended approval of COA 25-0008.

During the public portion the property owner (identified as Patel) stated the address as 514 Southeast Eighth Street and did not raise objections; board members characterized the proposal as “a nice improvement.” A motion to approve the application was made and seconded; the chair called for the vote and announced approval. The board noted the certificate of appropriateness is valid for six months; construction must start within six months and, if started, be completed within 12 months. Extensions may be requested from staff.

The staff packet included plans, elevations and a materials list that staff said tied the new work to existing materials on the house. Board members asked about the footprint and were told the garage would be enlarged “by a little” and that exact figures are available in the staff report. No letters of objection were reported by staff.

The board’s action authorizes COA 25-0008 as presented; staff will monitor compliance with the approved materials and the time limits in city code.