Public Meetings - Ocala, Florida

The Board convened at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers, City Hall, to hear one enforcement case (CON26-0003) against C Music Construction and Solar Systems LLC for unlicensed contracting and unpermitted work at 3978 SE 17th St. The homeowner, Michelle Cardacy, testified to the financial and personal burden caused by the company’s failure to obtain permits despite repeated assurances. The respondent admitted the violations but argued they were unaware that Ocala had separate licensing requirements from Marion County. After hearing evidence and testimony, the Board found the company guilty on all five counts and imposed a reduced fine of $9,315 plus $158.97 costs, payable in 60 days or reverting to the full $18,630. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Cardacy (homeowner): Described hiring C Music Construction through Angie’s List, paying a total of $18,630 ($9,315 deposit July 7, 2025; $9,315 final payment October 16, 2025) for new doors, windows, siding, and electrical work. She stated she repeatedly requested permits but was misled by the company’s claims that permits were “in progress.” She noted the stress and difficulty in finding a licensed contractor to inspect/remediate the unpermitted work, and that they cannot sell their home without permits. She expressed feeling “catfished” by the company. - Carol Music (respondent): Admitted the company was licensed in Marion, Lake, Sumter, and other counties but not in the City of Ocala. He stated they did not know Ocala had a separate building department and that they are in the process of obtaining a state specialty license (application no. 51184, zero deficiencies remaining). He claimed the homeowners never asked about permits until after the job was finished, and that the electrical work was done as a favor at no charge. He offered to provide product approval sheets and even tear out work if needed. - Jason Fanza (respondent): Corroborated Carol Music’s statements and emphasized that they have been transparent with the homeowner since discovering the Ocala requirement. Discussion Items - Presentation by Dale Hollingsworth (Chief Code Official): Detailed the investigation: site visit on Feb 9, 2026, observed completed work (doors, windows, siding, structural columns, electrical modifications). Verified no permits were ever applied for or issued. Noted that the company’s website still claims “licensed and insured” but lists a non-existent license number (CCC 25314). Recommended a fine of $18,630 (total contract amount) plus $158.97 prosecution costs. - Testimony by Truman Henson (Chief Building Official): Noted that without permits, it is impossible to verify product approvals or proper installation (e.g., doors not installed per manufacturer specs). Stated the City requires state specialty licenses per 2025 law. - Board deliberation: Members acknowledged the violations were clear but expressed concern for the homeowner. They discussed the gravity of the case and the need for deterrence. A motion was made to find guilt on all five counts and impose a fine at 50% of staff recommendation ($9,315) plus $158.97 costs, with a 60-day payment deadline or reversion to the full $18,630. The motion was seconded and carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Verdict: C Music Construction and Solar Systems LLC was found guilty of all five violations under Ocala Code §22-151(B)(1,6,8,12,13): false advertising/holding out as contractor; engaging in unregistered contracting; commencing work without a permit; disregarding municipal ordinances; and committing acts that would be violations for a licensed contractor. - Penalty: Fine of $9,315 (50% of the contract amount) plus $158.97 in prosecution costs, total $9,473.97. Must be paid within 60 days of March 12, 2026; if not paid, the fine reverts to $18,630 plus the same costs ($18,788.97). - Next steps: The respondent was informed they can speak with staff after the meeting. The code official noted the unpermitted work remains in place, and the homeowner must still resolve the permitting issues.

The Ocala Planning & Zoning Commission met on March 9, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included the election of officers, approval of minutes, two major rezoning cases (PD25-0001 and PD25-0007), a discussion on Vision 2050, and public comments. Both rezoning cases were approved, one with a 4-1 vote and the other unanimously. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the February 9, 2026 meeting minutes. - Kevin Lopez was elected Chairman and Tamboura Jenkins was elected Vice Chairman for the upcoming term. Public Comments & Testimony - Regarding PD25-0001 (KAS Ocala SR): Mary Fraser (9820 SW 89th Terrace) expressed strong opposition, stating the development would destroy Ocala's natural beauty and that the city is "destroying your community." She criticized the lack of environmental consideration and questioned FDOT's role. - Regarding PD25-0007 (Mockingbird Ridge): Nedumportakeli Temperlay (4552 SW Preservator) voiced concerns about increased noise, traffic, and declining property values. He requested a strong sound barrier and safety wall to mitigate impacts on his home adjacent to the project. Discussion Items - PD25-0001 (KAS Ocala SR): The Commission considered rezoning approximately 251.09 acres (parcels 23812-001-00 and 2380-000-001) from PUD-06 and OP to PD, and approving the associated PD Plan and Standards Book. Staff (Emily Johnson) presented the proposal for a mixed-use development with up to 595,683 sq ft of commercial/retail/office/recreational space and a maximum of 860 residential units—a reduction from the prior PUD allowance of 1,260 units. Applicant Fred Roberts highlighted community feedback that led to converting multi-family along the northern boundary to single-family and adding a 6-foot opaque fence along the Bear Track subdivision, along with a 30-foot undisturbed buffer. The Commission discussed school capacity, traffic access, and a 100-foot building height variance (for commercial areas). A motion to approve carried 4-1 (Member Jenkins dissenting), with conditions including updating the PD plan and standards book to reflect the fence and buffer, plus all staff-recommended conditions. - PD25-0007 (Mockingbird Ridge): The Commission considered rezoning approximately 283.55 acres (parcels 23875-000-01 and 35364-000-00) west of I-75 and north of SW 66th Street from PUD-02 to PD, and approving the PD Plan and Standards Book for 592 single-family residential units. Staff (Emily Johnson) explained the property is part of the Heathbrook DRI with prior entitlements. The proposed density (2.1 du/ac) and 25% open space (70.59 acres) were consistent with the DRI. Applicant Fred Roberts noted the rezoning reactivates a lapsed PUD. Public comment raised noise and value concerns. The Commission unanimously approved with staff conditions. - Vision 2050 Update: Planning Director Aubrey Hale provided an update on the Vision 2050 comprehensive plan amendment, noting it will return to the P&Z in April for a recommendation and to City Council in May. Commissioners encouraged language emphasizing vertical growth, density to reduce sprawl, and coordination with the county’s comprehensive plan. The discussion highlighted that concentrated development can reduce traffic and preserve open space. Key Outcomes - PD25-0001 (KAS Ocala SR) rezoning and PD plan/standards approved (4-1), with additional conditions for a 6-foot opaque fence along the northern boundary and updating the PD documents. - PD25-0007 (Mockingbird Ridge) rezoning and PD plan/standards approved (unanimous 6-0). - Election of Chairman (Kevin Lopez) and Vice Chairman (Tamboura Jenkins) confirmed. - Approval of February 9, 2026 meeting minutes. - Staff announced a Planning Officials Training Workshop on April 9, 2026, from 8 AM to 4 PM at the County Commission Chambers (2710 E. Silver Springs Blvd). - Next P&Z meeting: April 13, 2026.

The Ocala City Council met on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Ire Bethea Sr. and adjourned at 5:24 PM. All council members were present: Mayor Ben Marciano, Pro Tem Jay A. Musleh, Council Members Kristen M. Dreyer, James P. Hilty Sr., Barry Mansfield, and Council President Bethea. The agenda included proclamations, a vulnerability assessment presentation, consent agenda, two rezoning ordinances, and numerous general business items. Several members of the public provided comments on various topics. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0) via roll call vote. Items included: a one-year lease with Ascente Aviation LLC ($1,369/month); annual renewal with Florida Department of Agriculture ($54,874); one-year grounds maintenance contract with Southern Lawn Care ($72,600); Resolution 2026-15 adopting the Marion County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan; reappointments of Jane Cosand (Historic Preservation Advisory Board), Dustin Magamoll (Board of Adjustment), Michael Kroitor and Shirley J. Wright (Code Enforcement Board); appointment of Erica Gibb (Board of Adjustment); and approval of City Council meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Lourene Ek (5907 SW 59th St.) read words of wisdom from past U.S. presidents, emphasizing faith and patriotism. - Jason Tolbert (201 NE 37th Ct.) thanked the Ocala Police Department and Mayor Marciano for their professionalism and community support, sharing his personal transformation story. - Larry Johnson (5360 NE 16th St.) requested an honorary street naming in honor of his late father, noting a petition with over 12 signatures and widespread media coverage. Council President Bethea confirmed the city would review the request through established procedures. - Darnitha Johnson (CEO, Royal Queen's Apartment Founder) urged the Mayor and Council to increase public education on domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual assault awareness year-round, not just during designated months. She provided resource bags and challenged officials to take action. - Dr. Manes Pierre alleged time fraud (sick leave abuse) by an Ocala police officer and claimed the officer was later promoted. He submitted 17 pages of documentary evidence and requested Mayor Marciano investigate, citing a similar arrest in Jacksonville. He argued the city was violating its own policies and the Constitution. - Jean Rickman (Economic Development Coordinator for Congresswoman Kat Cammack, 2630 SE 3rd St.) announced that Fiscal Year 2027 congressional appropriations for programmatic/language requests have been opened, with a deadline of March 11, 2026. She is coordinating with the city on federal priorities. - During the 9b rezoning hearing, applicant’s attorney Rodney Rogers (1105 SE 3rd Ave.) provided updates on property demolition and abatement, confirming the owner intends to sell the property for industrial use. Discussion Items - Proclamation & Awards (Items 4a, 4b): Mayor Marciano proclaimed March 9–15, 2026 as Flood Awareness Week. Engineering Director Sean Lanier encouraged flood insurance and online resources. The Ocala Police Department received the Excelsior Award for maintaining continuous accreditation for 15+ years (since 2008), meeting 234 standards. - Vulnerability Assessment (Item 5a): Sean Lanier presented a flood vulnerability assessment funded by FDEP’s Resilient Florida Grant. The study inventories city assets, models 100-year and 500-year storms (current and future 2050/2080 scenarios), and will produce an Adaptation Plan to apply for state funding. - Ordinance 2026-9 (First Reading, Item 8a): Introduced by Pro Tem Musleh, this ordinance adopts updated actuarial assumptions for the General Employees' Pension Plan based on a 2014-2024 Experience Study. Second reading set for March 17, 2026. - Rezoning – Ordinance 2026-7 (Item 9a): Adopted unanimously. Rezones 2.26 acres at 1400 block NE 14th St. from RO and R-1 to R-3 (Multi-Family Residential). Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval (6-0). No public comment. - Rezoning – Ordinance 2026-8 (Item 9b): Adopted unanimously. Rezones 30.49 acres at 5019 W Silver Springs Blvd. from PD (Planned Development) to M-1 (Light Industrial). The previous PD allowed 468 multifamily units and 180,991 sq. ft. commercial; that plan is no longer viable. The property will align with surrounding industrial uses. - General Business Items: - 10a (Tree Trimming): One-year renewal with Davey Tree Expert Co. (up to $2,541,543). Councilmember Mansfield confirmed hourly billing and that $2.5M was spent last year. Prices remain flat. - 10d (GFOA Consulting): IT Director Ramos clarified that GFOA is a consultant, not an ERP vendor, to assess whether to enhance the current Munis system or transition to a new one. - 10g (Ground Maintenance): Pulled by Councilmember Mansfield due to a potential math error; will return in two weeks. - 10j (Traffic Travel Time Readers): Public Works Director Park explained the Bluetooth readers measure corridor travel times; FDOT reimburses about $6,000 per signalized intersection (74-75 intersections, $400,000/year). The $384,000 purchase will be spread over two fiscal years. - 10k/10l (Property Purchase): Approved purchase of 6.65 acres east of NW MLK Jr. Ave. for $550,000 (Stormwater Reserve) for potential stormwater storage or debris staging. - 10m (Airport Grant): Budget resolution to appropriate $478,285 FDOT grant plus $119,572 from reserves for concrete pads at the airport. - Reports: - City Manager: Announced Family Fun Day (March 14, 2026, 11 AM-3 PM at Tuscawilla Park) and a Public School Planning Officials meeting (April 1, 2026, 9 AM-12 PM). The PCA (power cost adjustment) will remain under-collected; reserves will fluctuate but are covered. - Ocala Police Department (Feb 9-22, 2026): 6,990 total incidents (5% decrease year-over-year), 4,562 proactive calls, 2,428 dispatched calls, 311 crimes (+10% vs. 2025), 211 arrests (+8%), 1,117 traffic stops (+4%), 130 crashes (-5% year-to-date). The Traffic Unit (currently 4 officers + 1 supervisor) plans to expand by 2 officers. - Ocala Fire Rescue (Feb 17 – Mar 2, 2026): 1,006 calls for service (4,368 year-to-date). Busiest units: Rescue 4 (178 responses) and Engine 4 (118). Handled 73 vehicle accidents, 4 structure fires, 42 community paramedicine calls. Firefighter/Paramedic Ryan Reese earned his paramedic certification. The mandatory burn ban in Marion County is extended to March 10, 2026. - Mayor’s Comments: Visited Dignity House (transitional housing for homeless); 7 people referred by OPD have achieved independent living. Announced expanded Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit with a full-time officer; 13 arrests since December 2025. - Council Comments: Councilmember Hilty reported a productive trip to Washington, D.C., meeting with Congresswoman Cammack and others on public power challenges (e.g., pole attachments). Key Outcomes - Approved Unanimously (all 5-0 votes): Consent agenda (items 6a-6i), Ordinance 2026-7 (rezoning), Ordinance 2026-8 (rezoning), and general business items 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e, 10f, 10h, 10i, 10j, 10k, 10n, 10o. - Adopted Unanimously: Budget Resolutions 2026-130 (property purchase funding) and 2026-131 (airport grant funding). - Pulled: Item 10g (Southern Lawn Care renewal for $261,900) held for two weeks due to a noted math error. - First Reading Introduced: Ordinance 2026-9 (pension plan actuarial changes), with second reading scheduled for March 17, 2026. - Next Steps: The honorary street naming request by Larry Johnson will be reviewed per city procedures. The Mayor will consider Dr. Pierre’s allegations regarding police sick leave fraud. The city will submit federal appropriations requests by March 11, 2026.

Date: February 25, 2026 Time: 10:30 AM – 11:49 AM Location: Ocala City Hall, Council Chamber Presiding: Ryan C. Fong, Special Magistrate The hearing addressed multiple code enforcement cases, including new business, repeat violator matters, and lien requests. Over a dozen cases were heard, with various outcomes including orders to comply, fines, and liens. One case was taken under advisement due to complex property boundary disputes.

The Downtown Ocala Redevelopment Advisory Committee met on February 24, 2026 at Ocala City Hall to approve previous meeting minutes, receive updates on past grants and ongoing transportation projects, and hear a presentation on the draft City of Ocala Vision 2050 plan. The committee also discussed property tax burdens on small downtown businesses and quorum challenges. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 28, 2025): The minutes were approved unanimously after a member noted that the previous meeting summary omitted details about a potential transfer of city property as part of the Marion Hotel economic package. The committee requested that future summaries include all relevant details. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Grant Update (CRA 25-0052): Staff reported that a $50,000 grant for full interior build‑out of the former Magnolia Gallery at 40 South Magnolia Ave into a Hagenda’s ice cream shop (franchise) was approved by the CRA Board on January 20, 2026 after the advisory committee was unable to meet due to lack of quorum. Committee member Don Gulling submitted written support. Site visit was December 5, 2025, with TaMara York representing the committee. - Project Updates (Eric Smith, Transportation Project Administrator): - FDOT has agreed to review intersection improvement concepts for State Road 40 from 441 to 8th Avenue, including stamped brick crosswalks, enhanced lighting, and shrubbery. Six intersections are being considered (e.g., Aceola, Magnolia, First, Watula). - Brick City: The second building is about to begin; sidewalk portion is 99% complete; trees and shrubbery are being installed; a road diet / lane reduction project is planned. - State Road 40 corridor improvements: Speed limit reduction from 30 to 25 mph has already been approved by FDOT. The project is part of a larger resurfacing effort from 441 to the forest. Intersection enhancements are being negotiated, and discussions about golf cart crossings across SR 40 are ongoing. - Vision 2050 Presentation (Aubrey Hale, Planning Director): - The draft Vision 2050 plan builds on the 2035 Vision. The city aims for adoption by May 2026. - Consultant Urban 3 analyzed land values: 11% of city land is undeveloped; downtown high‑density areas generate far more value per acre (e.g., Malley’s Alley at $5.1M/acre) than typical big‑box retail ($0.4M/acre). - Population is projected to grow 31% by 2050, reaching about 92,000 residents, with daytime population possibly reaching 350,000. - Downtown CRA has a 53% exempt / 47% taxable property split; the plan encourages converting exempt government parcels into redevelopment sites. - Key citywide initiatives include: updating the 40‑year‑old land development code, shifting to mobility fees, enhancing transit (Sun Tran), updating the downtown and midtown master plans, and focusing on internal redevelopment over annexation. - Four focus areas defined: Downtown High Intensity, West Ocala, East Ocala, and a new Medium Intensity Special District for North Magnolia. - Committee member comments raised the need to include golf‑cart connectivity north of SR 40 and the Tourist Development Council (TDC) gap study (which identified a need for a large venue) in the downtown core section of the plan. - Committee Motion: A motion was made and seconded to request that the Vision 2050 document incorporate (1) golf cart connections north of SR 40 and (2) consideration of a downtown venue identified in the TDC gap study. The motion passed unanimously. - Board Comments – Tax Burden Discussion: Committee members expressed concern that rising property valuations, if not offset by millage rate adjustments, will drive up rents and property taxes for small downtown businesses (e.g., one restaurant saw a 30% increase in one year). They noted that retailers on triple‑net leases are particularly vulnerable and that downtown may become unaffordable for local small businesses. - Quorum and Meeting Schedule: Staff noted that when a quorum is missed, the resulting delay (four months) has led to grants being approved by the CRA Board without committee input. Committee members were asked to provide alternative dates if they cannot attend a scheduled meeting. No additional meetings beyond the six currently planned were proposed. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimous approval of October 28, 2025 minutes. - Motion on Vision 2050: Committee voted unanimously to recommend inclusion of golf‑cart crossings and TDC venue considerations in the downtown focus area of the Vision 2050 plan. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April 28, 2026. - Meeting adjourned.

The Ocala Community Redevelopment Area Agency Board met on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 3:45 PM at Ocala City Hall. The meeting lasted approximately five minutes and covered three agenda items: two residential property improvement grants and one board appointment. All items were approved unanimously by roll call vote. No public comments were made. Minutes Approval - The board unanimously approved the minutes from the January 20, 2026 CRA meeting (moved by James P. Hilty Sr., seconded by Kristen Dreyer; all present members voted aye). Discussion Items 5a. West Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant – 1705 NW 16th Court Economic Development Manager Roberto Ellis presented a grant application for a home constructed in 1949 located in the West Ocala CRA district. The proposed scope of work includes replacement of exterior doors, installation of a new fence, landscaping, and termite treatment. The estimated total project cost is approximately $20,846; the CRA grant covers up to 75% of costs, not to exceed $15,635. The West Ocala CRA Advisory Committee supported the project, and staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously to approve (moved by Kristen Dreyer, seconded by James P. Hilty Sr.). 5b. North Magnolia CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant – 130 NW 17th Street Roberto Ellis presented a grant application for a property in the North Magnolia CRA district. The homeowner is converting from septic to city sewer, which qualifies for 100% reimbursement under program guidelines. The requested grant amount is $4,221. The North Magnolia Advisory Committee supported the project, and staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously to approve (moved by James P. Hilty Sr., seconded by Kristen Dreyer). 5c. Appointment of Linda Wilkerson to West Ocala Redevelopment Advisory Committee Roberto Ellis explained that Linda Wilkerson, an active member of the Point Sienna Heights Homeowners and Renters Task Force, applied to fill an unexpired term (ending March 1, 2029) vacated by Dr. Barbara Brooke. Council President Ire Bethea Sr. spoke in support, stating he knew Ms. Wilkerson and believed she would do a great job. Staff recommended approval. The board voted unanimously to appoint (moved by Kristen Dreyer, seconded by Jay A. Musleh). Key Outcomes - Approved $15,635 West Ocala CRA grant for 1705 NW 16th Court. - Approved $4,221 North Magnolia CRA grant for 130 NW 17th Street. - Appointed Linda Wilkerson to the West Ocala Redevelopment Advisory Committee for a term ending March 1, 2029. - All votes were 4-0 (with Councilmember Barry Mansfield excused). The meeting adjourned at 3:50 PM.

The Ocala City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers at Ocala City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue. Council President Ire Bethea Sr. presided. Present were Mayor Ben Marciano, Pro Tem Jay A. Musleh, Council Members Kristen M. Dreyer and James P. Hilty Sr.; Council Member Barry Mansfield was excused. The meeting adjourned at 5:09 PM. The council approved the consent agenda, conducted public hearings and first readings, approved all general business items, and received departmental reports. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved by roll call vote, 4-0 (Mansfield excused), with Pro Tem Musleh moving and Council Member Dreyer seconding. - Approved items included Budget Resolution 2026-127 accepting and appropriating $23,429 in Community Development Block Grant program income; additional expenditures of $45,551.56 under the Carahsoft Technology Corp. cooperative purchasing agreement for Juniper support solutions, increasing aggregate contract expenditure to $93,179; adjustment to Mayor and City Council vehicle allowances; and Budget Resolution 2026-128 transferring $22,400 from the General Fund Reserve for Contingencies to increase vehicle allowances. - Reappointments were approved for Joshua DeMonte to the Historic Preservation Advisory Board; Howard Gunn and Tanya Hanks to the Housing Authority Board; Jean Floten to the Municipal Arts Commission; James Hartley to the Board of Adjustment; Kevin Steiner to the Municipal Code Enforcement Board; Elgin Carelock and TamBoura Jenkins to the Planning and Zoning Commission; Rick Gullet to the Utility Advisory Board; and Robert DuMond to the Tree Commission. - The February 3, 2026 City Council meeting minutes were approved. Proclamations and Awards - Mayor Marciano presented the Mayor’s Citizen Recognition Award to Kevin Christian, recognizing his 25 years as director of public relations for Marion County Public Schools, his work across 57 schools, and his leadership during crises including the 2018 Forest High School shooting. - Mayor Marciano presented the Engineers Week Proclamation to Alan Garri, Vice President of Kimley Horn, and Mackenzie Fix, President of the Forest Chapter of the Florida Engineering Society, proclaiming February 22–28, 2026 as Engineers Week in Ocala. - Mayor Marciano and City Manager Pete Lee presented a service award to Fire Captain Anthony Ortiz for 25 years of service with Ocala Fire Rescue. Public Hearings - Council President Bethea opened the public hearing at 4:19 PM for the application by 3100 College Road Holdings, LLLP, doing business as Paddock Market, at 3100 SW College Road, Unit 300, requesting a permit for the sale of beer, wine, and liquor for on-premises consumption. Chief Planning Official Endira Madraveren reported seven calls for service over a two-year period, no churches, daycares, or schools within a 500-foot radius, and staff recommended approval. Attorney Rod Feiner of Coker & Feiner represented the property owner and clarified that each individual restaurant must separately apply to the State of Florida after receiving a city location permit. There was no public comment. The council approved the permit 4-0, with Council Member Dreyer moving and Council Member Hilty seconding. First Readings of Ordinances - Ordinance 2026-7 was introduced to rezone approximately 2.26 acres in the 1400 block of NE 14th Street from RO, Residential Office, and R-1, Single Family Residential, to R-3, Multi-Family Residential (Case ZON 25-0016). Council Member Hilty introduced the item. - Ordinance 2026-8 was introduced to rezone two properties totaling approximately 30.49 acres at 5019 W Silver Springs Blvd and the adjacent parcel east, from PD, Planned Development, to M-1, Light Industrial (Case ZON 25-0018). Council Member Dreyer introduced the item. - Both ordinances are scheduled for second and final reading on March 3, 2026. General Business - 10a: Approved the purchase of Sulzer Pumps and equipment from Hydra Services Inc. for Fiscal Year 2026, with an estimated annual expenditure of $250,000. Motion by Hilty, second by Dreyer; 4-0. - 10b: Approved the Community Development Block Grant 2025 grant agreement totaling $510,378. Motion by Dreyer, second by Musleh; 4-0. - 10c: Adopted Budget Resolution 2026-129 appropriating the CDBG allocation of $510,378. Motion by Hilty, second by Musleh; 4-0. Note: The agenda and minutes list this budget resolution as item 10c, while the transcript quotes a presenter referring to it as item 10F. - 10d: Approved a five-year lease agreement for Brick City Center for the Arts between the Marion Cultural Alliance and the City of Ocala. Motion by Dreyer, second by Hilty; 4-0. Staff noted the MCA has leased the building for 20 years and invested $77,732 in capital improvements during the initial lease term. - 10e: Approved additional expenditures under the contract with Morse Communications Inc. for physical security equipment, increasing aggregate expenditure by $116,929. Motion by Dreyer, second by Musleh; 4-0. - 10f: Approved a $992,054 construction contract with FSV Construction Company for the renovation and expansion of the Ocala Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center. Motion by Hilty, second by Dreyer; 4-0. The project is funded by carry-forward dollars from prior years; Police Chief Mike Balken said the buildout would take approximately four to six months. - 10g: Approved the purchase of six 250 kVA voltage regulators from Sunbelt Solomon Services, LLC in the amount of $105,084. Motion by Hilty, second by Dreyer; 4-0. - 10h: Approved a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing agreement with Alan Jay Fleet Sales for a 2026 Ford T-350 van for the Ocala Police Department in the amount of $148,885. Motion by Dreyer, second by Musleh; 4-0. Fleet Division Head Liza Warmuth said the van replaces a 23-year-old repurposed ambulance with approximately 180,000 miles and that outfitting costs are included in the quote. - 10i: Adopted Resolution 2026-14 amending the Public Transportation Grant Agreement with FDOT, increasing funding by $478,285 for design and construction of the airport fuel farm, wash rack, and parking concrete pads. Motion by Hilty, second by Musleh; 4-0. The total project cost is approximately $1.27 million. Discussion: Carry-Forward Budget Practices - During the 10f discussion, Council Member Musleh expressed concern about using carry-forward dollars from prior years, especially if they came from non-construction accounts, and said large projects should be put into reserve funds rather than carry-forward. He emphasized his comments were about the broader budget process, not the specific project. - Council Member Hilty noted carry-forward allows unspent, unobligated funds to move into the next fiscal year, preventing loss of budgeted money and enhancing fiscal efficiency. - Council Member Dreyer suggested allocating carry-forward funds from the operating budget to a reserve fund to maintain financial stability. - City Manager Pete Lee said staff is evaluating the use of carry-forward funds as part of the budget process and is pushing departments to spend money in the year it was budgeted. - Police Chief Balken confirmed he will provide Council Member Musleh with a list of the carry-forward items from prior years. Department and Manager Reports - City Manager Pete Lee announced upcoming events: Sculpture Scroll on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11 AM to 5 PM; Fire Station 8 groundbreaking on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 10 AM; and the skate park opening later that week. - Lee reported FDOT has completed a speed study and will lower the State Road 40 speed limit to 25 miles per hour from US 441 to just west of Tuscawilla Avenue within two to three weeks. The city is developing a comprehensive plan for the corridor. - Lee discussed the draft fact sheet for discontinuation of curbside recycling and requested council feedback. Council Member Musleh favored mailing the notice with utility bills; Council Member Dreyer supported the letter and noted media coverage failed to mention that recycling centers will be established around the city; Mayor Marciano said the new container-based process will reduce contamination rates and favored issuing an informational letter. Lee said staff will evaluate recycling center placement for public access. - Ocala Police Department: Chief Mike Balken reported for January 26–February 8, 2026: 7,829 total incidents, 5,473 proactive calls, 2,356 dispatched calls, 274 crimes, 214 arrests, 1,105 traffic stops, and 158 crashes. He also reported that the Real Time Crime Center helped resolve a double homicide related to domestic violence within about three hours. - Ocala Fire Rescue: Fire Chief Clint Welborn reported for the two-week period February 3–16, 2026: Fire Rescue Four had 164 unit responses and Fire Engine One had 127; call types included 66 motor vehicle accidents, 6 structure fires, 37 community paramedicine/CORE calls, and 986 total calls for service, bringing the year-to-date total to 3,308. The department welcomed new Firefighter/EMT Emil Henry. - The Internal Auditor and City Attorney each reported no report. Public Comments & Testimony - No member of the public provided comment during the Paddock Market public hearing, and no public comment cards were submitted for the general public comment period. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 4-0. - Paddock Market alcohol permit approved 4-0. - Ordinance 2026-7 and Ordinance 2026-8 introduced for first reading, with final adoption scheduled for March 3, 2026. - All General Business items, including the Real Time Crime Center construction contract, were approved or adopted by 4-0 votes. - Council unanimously directed City Manager Pete Lee to meet with the interim superintendent of Marion County Public Schools to request advance notice of future school capacity expansions, following Council Member Dreyer’s report on traffic concerns at Fort King Middle School and the planned expansion of its AI Magnet Program by 300 students. - Staff will proceed with public outreach on the discontinuation of curbside recycling, including mailing the informational letter with utility bills and establishing recycling centers around the city.

The Ocala Municipal Code Enforcement Board met on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The board addressed multiple code violation cases, including a repeat violator case with a fire-related complication, several uncontested violations, a petition for fine reduction, and a series of consent agenda items for liens and non-compliance hearings. The board also acknowledged the potential reappointment of a member whose application was delayed due to a bad email address. Discussion Items - Case CE26-0061 (City of Ocala vs. George Gerald Cummings): Inspector Rob Moore presented a violation for weeds, trash, and unsanitary matter (Section 34-95) and commercial vehicle/portable containers (Section 122-1193) at 2605 NE 19th Ave. The property was a repeat violator with a previous case closed in November 2025 after compliance. Respondent Jennifer Cummings and George Cummings appeared, explaining that a neighbor's fire on January 31, 2026, had damaged their house and added debris. They acknowledged ongoing cleanup and requested more time. Staff recommended a compliance date of March 19, 2026, with an immediate fine of $250 per day from January 15, 2026 (repeat violator provision), and an additional $250 per day (total $500) if not compliant by March 19. After discussion, the board voted to suspend the retroactive fines until March 19; if not compliant by then, all fines from January 15 would be due and $500 per day would apply thereafter. Motion by Bruce Gonseth, seconded by Shirley Wright. Vote: 5-2 in favor (Eddie Ferrentino and Kevin Steiner opposed). - Case CE25-0856 (City vs. Ruben Villanueva): Violations for building permit required and standard housing code at 2750 NW Martin L King Ave. No respondent present. Inspector Stephanie Smith reported only a derelict vehicle was removed. Motion to accept staff recommendation passed unanimously. - Case CE25-1147 (City vs. PAPOU LLC): Violations for barbed wire/electrified fences, pool barrier required, and pool barrier specifications at 807 SE 34th Ave. Board clarified the pool barrier code refers to fencing gaps. Motion to pass with staff recommendation passed. Unanimous. - Case CE25-1148 (City vs. Jack P. Braswell Estate): Violation for abandoned/derelict vehicle at 2242 NE 3rd St. No respondent. Inspector Jeff Gilbo reported no change after a 30-day continuance. Motion to accept staff recommendation passed unanimously. - Case CE25-1238 (City vs. Richard L. Smith): Violation for weeds and trash at 1933 NW 4th St. No respondent. Motion passed unanimously. - Case CE26-0006 (City vs. Jeffery D. Vernam Estate): Violation for dangerous building at 1831 NW 26th Pl. No contact. Motion passed unanimously. - Case CE26-0012 (City vs. William H. Jones Estate): Violations for dangerous building and weeds at 2709 NE 12th Ct. No contact with stepson. Motion passed unanimously. - Case CE25-1302 (City vs. Ellen T. Niely Estate): Violation for weeds at 1676 SW 5th Pl. No contact. Motion passed unanimously. - Case CE26-0031 (City vs. Roderick Williams, Senth Brigham, Ruby Reynolds): Violations for dangerous building, barbed wire fence, and weeds at 1926 NW 12th St. Supervisor Jennipher Buller reported the owner wants to sell and is deciding between repair and demolition; no appearance. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Petition for Fine Reduction (Case CE25-0803, City vs. Rikkeria Brown & Grady Fletcher): Grady Fletcher petitioned to waive $2,500 in daily fines accrued from Jan 2-26, 2026, for a vacant lot at 1300 BLK NW 11th Ave. He stated he recently purchased the property and was unaware of the debris left by the previous owner. Staff recommended a 90% reduction, leaving $250, plus the already-paid hard costs of $219.21. The board voted to reduce fines by 90%, requiring $250 paid within 90 days or the full amount reverts. Motion by Michael Kroitor, seconded by Bruce Gonseth. Passed unanimously. - Lien Approvals: The board approved filing liens for outstanding costs on 10 cases: 2024-11733 (Ritha Bien Aime), CE25-0083 (Land Trust No 217S), CE25-0182 (Willie Parker Est), CE25-0184 (William Windell Holmes Est), CE25-0325 (Jeffery D. Vernam Est), CE25-0525 (Carol Lau Est), CE25-0605 (Dorothy C. Lynch), CE25-0685 (Suzanne Enroth Est), CE25-0738 (Michael Anderson Stewart Est), and CE25-0883 (Home Dream Ventures LLC). Passed unanimously. - Consent Agenda for Non-Compliance: The board voted to proceed with previous orders for non-compliance on 13 cases: 2023-9930 (Hema Patel), CE25-0169 (Cornell Cox), CE25-0280 (Leonardo Gaskin Jr.), CE25-0760 (Ocala North Property LLC), CE25-0767 (Kevin Snider), CE25-1063 (Catherine Maxwell Est), CE25-1073 (Tex Harrell Est), CE25-1182 (Patriot Homes LLC), ENV25-0226 (Berkshire Oaks Ocala LLC), ENV25-0231 (GP Portfolio Landlord 2 LLC), ENV25-0275 (Burney Coe Et Al), ENV25-0282 (Alexander Toney), and ENV25-0293 (ASL Holdings LLC). Passed unanimously. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for March 12, 2026. Board Comments - Member Darrell O'Kain noted his reappointment application was sent to a bad email address and may not be considered in time. He expressed pleasure serving if not reappointed. No other comments were made.

On February 10, 2026, at 12:00 PM, the Ocala City Council held a work session at Ocala City Hall to review the draft Vision 2050 plan, an update to the 2035 vision. The meeting included a detailed presentation by Growth Management Director Jeff Rome, Planning Director Aubrey Hill, Chief Planning Official Indira Madrevera, and consultant Allie Palmer from Kimley-Horn. Council members discussed growth projections, land use, mobility, and implementation strategies, with no formal votes taken. Discussion Items - Vision 2050 Presentation: Staff presented the draft Vision 2050, emphasizing it as a guiding document for future development, building on the 2035 vision. Key elements included: - Population Growth: Projected 31% increase from 2024 estimates, reaching nearly 92,000 residents within city limits by 2050. - Land Use: Identified 11% of city land as vacant or undeveloped. Urban form opportunities (blue dots on map) target medium-intensity special districts for higher density/intensity, shifting toward form-based code. - Economic Analysis: Urban 3 study showed downtown CRA has 53% tax-exempt properties (vs. 23% citywide), meaning 47% of properties carry the tax burden. Mixed-use developments can generate up to $9.4 million per acre compared to $0.4 million per acre for big-box retail. - Action Items: Four building blocks (land use/housing, mobility/connectivity, public/open spaces, core components) with citywide initiatives including unified land development code (first major update since 1980s), capital improvement program, infill redevelopment, mobility fees, enhanced transit (SunTran expansion), complete streets, parks master plan update, Tuscawilla Park master plan, and gateway improvements along State Road 40 and I-75. - Focus Areas: Four focus areas (East Ocala, High Intensity Central Core, West Ocala, Airport) with catalytic sites, trail connections, and placemaking. State Road 40 designated as signature gateway corridor. - Council Questions and Comments: - Councilmember Mansfield requested data on total green space (parks, DRAs) to counter concerns about losing open space. Staff agreed to calculate public park acreage. - Councilmember Hilty asked how to redevelop underutilized privately owned downtown properties. City Manager Lee cited tools like CRAs, brownfields, and public-private partnerships, noting ongoing conversations with property owners. - Councilmember Dreyer suggested coordinating with the school board on surplus properties to align with Vision 2050. - Councilmember Musleh inquired about incorporating initiatives from the TDC’s gap study; staff said they would review for structural fit. - Council President Bethea questioned the timeline for annual priority-setting. City Manager Lee emphasized the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Capital Improvement Program (CIP) as annual tools to align capital projects with the vision. - Councilmembers discussed model cities: Greenville (SC), Huntsville (AL), Winter Park (FL) were cited as examples for downtown activation and mixed-use development. - Councilmember Mansfield praised the inclusion of the airport focus area, noting the airport industrial park has seen no development. Staff noted alignment with the airport’s master plan. Key Outcomes - Feedback Requested: Council members were asked to review the draft document and provide written feedback within a few weeks. Staff will incorporate comments and then schedule public hearings, likely in April or May 2026. - Public Engagement: The public can access the draft via a QR code on the city’s website and submit comments. A media campaign will be launched to increase awareness. - Next Steps: Staff will clean up inaccuracies in the draft, then present a final version for adoption. The unified land development code update will be a major subsequent project. - No Formal Decisions: The work session was for discussion only; no votes were taken.