West Ocala advisory committee approves $15,635 home‑repair grant for Shelly May Washington

The West Ocala CRA advisory committee unanimously approved grant application CRA 26‑0004 for homeowner Shelly May Washington, staff said. Charlita Whitehead, the city’s economic development project coordinator, told the committee that the request covers three exterior doors, fencing replacement, landscaping, exterior painting and termite treatment and that the proposed work is eligible for a maximum reimbursement of $15,635 from the West Ocala CRA grant account.

"Based on the information that was provided, our review, and our visit with the grant review committee, staff does recommend approval of CRA 26‑0004," Charlita Whitehead said. Whitehead described the property as Washington’s primary residence and noted Washington had received a prior CRA grant last fiscal year for roofing, window replacement and an HVAC system.

A committee member moved to approve CRA 26‑0004 and the motion was seconded. The chair called for the vote and members answered "aye," with the motion recorded as unanimously approved. The applicant was not present at the meeting.

Whitehead said the project includes termite treatment — a newly added eligible item for West Ocala grants — and reported that staff reviewed multiple contractor bids after the applicant secured additional estimates; one door bid differed substantially (about $12,000 versus $2,000), she said, which prompted staff guidance that applicants obtain multiple bids. Staff confirmed funds are available in the West Ocala CRA account to cover the maximum reimbursement.

The committee’s approval completes the advisory committee step for this residential improvement grant; staff will proceed with administrative steps to process the reimbursement and notify the applicant. The committee did not record individual vote tallies by member name.