Public Meetings - Ocala, Florida

The Ocala Municipal Arts Commission (OMAC) held its regular meeting on August 5, 2026, at 9:15 AM. The meeting included election of officers, approval of minutes, consideration of two grant applications, acceptance of a donated public art bench, and extensive discussion on the public artist roster selection process. All motions passed unanimously. Election of Officers - Chair: Jay Bailey was nominated and re-elected by acclamation for a 12-month term. Bailey accepted, noting she had served two prior terms. - Vice Chair: Darien Mosley was nominated and elected by acclamation. Mosley acknowledged past attendance challenges due to work travel but indicated that after September only two trips remain. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the June 25, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously after a motion by Greg Thompson, seconded by Dr. Hammond. All members present voted in favor. Grants and Applications - Battle of the Drums, Art, Rap and Dance (BDARD) – $2,000 - Applicant Sean Thomas (Sean T Music Global) presented the program for youth at Boys & Girls Clubs of Citrus and Marion County, involving bucket drums, dance, and lyric writing. - Staff recommended approval. The grant had been tabled earlier because the applicant was not present, but he arrived later. - Discussion noted the project timeline began August 4, 2026, and the applicant stated he would self-fund supplies until the grant is disbursed. - A motion to approve was made and seconded; all members voted aye. Motion carried. - The project is expected to benefit over 200 students across three clubs. - Face Today Salon & Spa Outdoor Mural – $2,000 - Applicant Justin Alsedeck presented a mural concept (57' x 24') for the east exterior wall of the salon, visible from the new parking garage. - The mural design features Florida native elements (oak tree, sun, cows, native plants). - Staff recommended approval. Commissioners requested a written agreement from the property owner (Bryce Peak) to ensure the mural remains public art. - Discussion included the need for nighttime lighting; the applicant indicated solar lighting could be added. - Motion to approve staff recommendation passed unanimously. Project Updates - Pioneer Garden Club Bench Donation - Presentation by Jamie Antonetti on a steel bench sculpture titled "Zebra Longwing" (10' x 11', valued at $7,000) by artist Richard Herzog. - The bench will be placed at Tuscawilla Art Park, near the Pioneer Garden Club's existing garden. - The Garden Club also pledged $200 per year for 10 years for maintenance. - Staff recommended acceptance, which requires final approval by Ocala City Council (two resolutions: one for the bench, one for the maintenance funds). - Commissioners expressed appreciation for the historical connection and suggested adding a QR code for historical information. - Motion to accept the donation passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Public Artist Roster Applications - Commissioners discussed the scoring process for 50 artists reviewed so far (out of 300 applicants). - Key points included clarifying that the roster is for large-scale public art projects (budgets potentially up to $100,000), not small indoor works. - Commissioners acknowledged that their initial scores were based on different understandings and agreed to re-evaluate scores individually with the new criteria. - A subgroup of approximately 10 artists with significant score discrepancies were reviewed live; for several, the commission decided to let the scores stand or to re-evaluate (e.g., Yomar Casanova, Armando). - The commission decided to schedule an additional meeting in approximately three weeks (likely early September) to continue reviewing the remaining artists. - All scores must be finalized by October 7, 2026 (the next regular OMAC meeting). Key Outcomes - Votes: - Approval of June 25, 2026 minutes (unanimous). - Approval of BDARD grant ($2,000) (unanimous). - Approval of Face Today mural grant ($2,000) (unanimous). - Acceptance of Pioneer Garden Club bench donation (unanimous). - Directives: - Staff to provide a list of artists requiring re-evaluation to commissioners. - Staff to arrange an additional meeting in three weeks (date TBD) for continued roster review. - Staff to investigate video recording requirements for alternative meeting locations (due to elevator renovations starting September 16). - Financial Update: - OMAC grant fund balance before meeting: $10,537.65. After approvals of two $2,000 grants, available funds: $6,537.65 (though only $800 was noted as available after approvals – likely a transcription error; staff indicated $4,800 available initially, then $2,800 after first grant, then $800 after second grant). Other Business - City Hall first-floor renovations will affect elevator access starting September 16, 2026; commissioners were asked to notify staff if they require elevator access. - Upcoming events promoted: Ocala Civic Theatre's production of "Rent" (opening soon); $20,000 NEA grant received; Adult Spelling Bee on September 9; Veterans Resource Center podcast studio available for arts promotion; Marion County Public Schools fine arts Instagram page; and the FAFO festival (October 24-25). No public comments were made.

The Ocala City Council met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations honoring community figures, a presentation on economic development, approval of consent agenda items, introduction of an affordable housing ordinance, adoption of multiple annexation and rezoning ordinances, adoption of tentative millage rates and fire assessment resolutions, approval of various contracts, and public testimony on code enforcement, utility billing, and surveillance technology. All votes were unanimous (5-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved 10 routine items by a single roll call vote, including budget amendments, grant agreements, contracts, appointments, and meeting minutes. Items included: - Budget Resolution 2026-152 to appropriate $12,612 from Police Trust Fund for crime prevention supplies. - One-year grant agreement with Lutheran Services Florida Health Systems for Ocala Police Department Chaplain Program ($99,779) and corresponding budget resolution. - First renewal of contract with Kempfer Sawmill for engineering wood fiber services (not to exceed $97,350). - Additional natural gas services expenditures (not to exceed $75,000). - Purchase of three-phase meter test board from Tesco ($51,186). - Budget resolution appropriating $9,200 grant from Duke Energy Foundation. - Off-system construction agreement with FDOT. - Appointment of David Layman to Police Officers’ Retirement System Board of Trustees. - City Council meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Clay Albright (representing ROC Holdings) spoke about a code enforcement violation on a property at 11th and 17th Street. He stated the city issued fines of $250 per day over a landscaping issue, that the property owner was not properly notified (notice sent to an invalid address), and that despite a pre-application conference for a restoration plan, no plan was yet submitted. He requested financial relief to allow a closing. City Manager Peter Lee and Growth Management Director Jeff Schrum noted a cross-attachment lien could be released upon payment of prosecution costs (less than $300), but the restoration plan remains unsubmitted. Several council members expressed frustration about perceived aggressive code enforcement practices. - Sean Fulwood (Ocala resident) stated he received a $1,375 charge on his electric bill for an alleged debt from 16–18 years ago. He claimed he was never in arrears and requested proof of the obligation, stating his power was shut off when he disputed the charge. Finance Director Peter Brill agreed to review the account. Council members questioned the practice of shutting off power for ancient debts and requested a policy review. - Alessandra Alman (13250 SW 64th Street Road) spoke about the city’s use of automatic license plate reader (ALPR) technology, specifically the Vigilant system. She cited research showing 84% of searches have no case number and expressed concerns about privacy and potential misuse. She asked council to consider whether the technology's benefits outweigh the loss of privacy. Discussion Items - Proclamations and Awards (Items 4a–4e): Council adopted a resolution honoring civil rights leader Whitfield Jenkins (passed 5-0). Mayor recognized Victoria Clifton with the Citizen Recognition Award. Council proclaimed August 26 as Florida Lineworker Appreciation Day and recognized Ocala Electric Utility for receiving the FMEA Utility Award of Excellence. Council also proclaimed August 7 as National Purple Heart Day, honoring local recipients. - Chamber and Economic Partnership Presentation (Item 5a): Matt McCormick, President/CEO, reported on economic development. Highlights: $1.6 billion in private capital investment (2021–2025), 4800 jobs created; $417 million in active investment for 2026. He noted success stories at E1, Artemis Plastic, and Averett Express. Talent programs include Classrooms to Careers and a new Worlds of Work program. The Power Plant Business Incubator is at 84% capacity, with 42 graduate companies. - Affordable Housing Ordinance Introduction (Item 8a): Council introduced Ordinance 2026-27 to amend Chapter 106, Section 105 regarding affordable housing loan programs (terms, applicability, interest rates). Second reading scheduled for August 18. - Public Hearings – Annexation and Rezoning (Items 9a–9d): Council adopted four ordinances for the Ocala 52 Partners PD project (82.4 acres at 5575 SW 52nd Street): annexation (9a), future land use change from High Residential (County) to Low Intensity (City) (9b), rezoning from A-1 to Planned Development (9c), and approval of PD Plan and Standards Book (9d). Staff presentation noted positive fiscal impact, no LOS capacity issues, and conditions including cessation of agricultural use within one year and removal of existing structures. A public commenter expressed concerns about prior mining and soil stability; applicant responded that FDEP reclamation was complete and soil management plans would address issues. - Public Hearings – City Property Rezonings (Items 9e–9h): Council adopted four ordinances to update land use and zoning for city-owned drainage parcels and adjacent properties in the 2800 block of SW 20th Street. Two ordinances (9e, 9f) reclassified 4.06 acres from Neighborhood to Public and rezoned to Governmental Use to match existing stormwater use. Two ordinances (9g, 9h) changed 4.88 acres from Neighborhood to Low Intensity and rezoned from R-3 to Institutional to allow a Capstone Academy school. Several business owners and neighbors spoke in favor, citing improved property conditions and compatibility. - General Business (Items 10a–10j): - 10a: Approved tentative FY 2026-27 millage rates: Basic City 6.6177; District A 1.7185; B 1.6332; C 1.4699 (same as current). - 10b: Adopted Resolution 2026-46 reimposing fire assessments with a revenue target of $18.3 million; final public hearing set for September 9. - 10c: Approved contract with Sawcross Inc. for dewatering rotary press at Water Reclamation Facility No. 2 ($1,812,800 total). - 10d: Approved one-year renewal of software contract with CentralSquare ($116,787). (Councilman Musleh absent; vote 4-0). - 10e: Approved two-year roof restoration contract with Unicoat Industrial Roofing ($300,000 max). (Musleh absent; vote 4-0). - 10f: Approved one-year street sweeping contract with Bomac Construction ($324,000). (Musleh absent; vote 4-0). - 10g: Approved two-year uniform program renewal with Tyndale Enterprises ($160,000 max). - 10h: Approved purchase of two rescue vehicles via Florida Sheriffs Association contract ($890,634). - 10i: Approved task work order for FDOT pond relocation design at Ocala International Airport ($157,712). - 10j: Approved stop loss insurance renewal with HM Insurance Company ($2,315,271); staff noted a 10.9% increase after negotiation from 29.4%, saving $380,000. - City Manager’s Report: Introduced new Water Resources Director Brian Heller; reminded council of auditor interviews on August 11; announced inaugural City Path Training Academy graduation on August 6. - Police Department Report (Chief Michael Balken): Reported 7,700 incidents (1% decrease), 1173 traffic stops, 296 reported crimes, 197 arrests. Noted increases in violent crime (+16), property crime (+22), and societal crime (+25). Highlighted a K-9 firearm find and an ICAC arrest. - Fire Rescue Report (Chief Clint Welburn): Reported 1,090 calls for the period, 76 MVCs, 7 fires, 47 community paramedicine calls. Total YTD calls: 16,339. Mentioned four commercial kitchen fires. - Council Comments: - Mayor Marciano discussed efforts to address synthetic Kratom, noting upcoming meeting with Attorney General’s office. - Councilmember Mansfield raised concerns about a $500,000 fraud incident (dated back to April/May) and requested transparency; City Manager Lee said investigation is ongoing, internal auditor will report to council, and insurance claims filed. - Councilmember Dreyer requested a presentation from Ocala Main Street on the downtown and midtown economic snapshot at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - All motions passed with unanimous (5-0) votes unless noted otherwise. Councilman Musleh was absent for votes on items 10d, 10e, and 10f, which passed 4-0. - Tentative millage rates for FY 2026-27 approved as recommended. - Fire assessment resolution adopted setting maximum rates; public hearing September 9. - Ordinance 2026-27 (Housing Incentive Fund amendments) introduced for first reading; second reading August 18. - All annexation, land use, and rezoning ordinances (Items 9a–9h) adopted. - City staff directed to provide a report on the utility billing dispute and code enforcement policies at next meeting. - Internal auditor will report directly to council on the fraud investigation. - Ocala Main Street requested to present at the September 1 council meeting.

The North Magnolia Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Advisory Committee met on July 30, 2026, at 1:30 PM. The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. Members approved the minutes from the previous meeting, discussed one grant application, received a project update on a proposed art installation, and reviewed staff recommendations from the June 9 City Council workshop regarding CRA program modifications. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The committee voted unanimously to approve the minutes of the prior meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Grant Application CRA 260032: Edwin Carreras, Economic Development Specialist, presented a grant request from Launched Real Estate LLC (applicant representative Tammy Lange) for exterior surface cleaning and painting at 939 North Magnolia Avenue, the historic Coca-Cola Bottling Company building (built 1939, listed on the National Register). The property was acquired in May 2026 for $1.6 million, with comprehensive interior and exterior renovations planned (including elevator, parking, new equipment) totaling nearly $1 million. The lowest quote for the eligible work was $27,200; the maximum grant allowed is $20,000. Staff recommended approval. The committee voted unanimously to approve the grant. - Project Update – Art Installation in Honor of Mr. Yandel: Roberto Ellis, Economic Development Manager, reported that staff had contacted the Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) about a painted horse sculpture, but MCA is processing other requests. Staff determined the project must be initiated by the family and had made contact. Committee members strongly objected to asking the family to fund the project, noting Mr. Yandel's long community service. The committee directed staff to continue moving the project forward and to find alternative funding sources, possibly through the city's cultural arts budget or other means. Committee member offered to make calls to seek funding. - Staff Comments – CRA Program Changes: Roberto Ellis provided an update from the June 9 City Council workshop. Key recommendations include: (1) Grant applications will go directly to the CRA Board for decision to avoid delays due to lack of quorum; (2) Administrative approvals of grants up to $10,000 (capped at $50,000 per program) by the city manager or designee; (3) Standardizing advisory committees to five members over time (three for quorum); (4) Scheduling monthly meetings (canceled when not needed); (5) Drafting formal bylaws for advisory committees; (6) Updating the downtown Tuscawilla Master Plan and prioritizing redevelopment of city-owned sites. Additionally, the committee noted that security lighting had been dropped from commercial grant eligibility and requested its reinstatement for both commercial and residential grants. Key Outcomes - Vote: Approved CRA 260032 (grant for facade improvement at 939 N. Magnolia Ave.) – motion carried unanimously. - Directive: Staff will pursue the art installation honoring Mr. Yandel without requiring family funding; committee will explore other funding sources. - Next Steps: The city council will consider the proposed grant program and advisory committee modifications on September 9, 2026, with intent to implement by October 1, 2026 (start of fiscal year). Security lighting will be reviewed for inclusion in grant eligibility. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for September 24, 2026.

The Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Agency Board met on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 3:30 PM at Ocala City Hall. The board approved the previous meeting's minutes and unanimously approved ten property improvement grants (one in the North Magnolia CRA and nine in the East Ocala CRA) totaling approximately $152,522. No public comments were received, and no substantive discussion occurred beyond staff presentations. Consent Calendar - 4a. Minutes from June 16, 2026 – Approved unanimously (5-0). - 5a. North Magnolia CRA Commercial Property Improvement Grant – $2,400 for parking lot improvements at 1735 NE Jacksonville Road (Hirschberger Holdings LLC / BJ Trophies). Approved unanimously. - 5b. East Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant – $6,938 for fencing (black decorative metal and vinyl) at 836 NE 11th Avenue (Noble Hawks Holdings LLC). Approved unanimously. - 5c. East Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant – $9,383 for roof (50% reimbursement) and HVAC (75% reimbursement) replacement at 722 NE Second Street (Angel and Samantha Harrison; home built 1940). Approved unanimously. - 5d. East Ocala CRA Commercial Property Improvement Grant – $49,378 for converting a former gas station into the Fort McCoy Farm Hub at 1255 East Silver Springs Boulevard (ESSB Holdings LLC / Todd Rudi Anin). Approved unanimously. - 5e. East Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant – $17,550 for repainting six detached single-family homes on parcel 2820-046-006 (Winthurst Properties LLC / Tom Have; historic district). Approved unanimously. - 5f. East Ocala CRA Commercial Property Improvement Grant – $6,874 for parking lot resurfacing and building repainting at 703 East Fort King Street (Brian Cohn / Evolution Solutions). Certificate of appropriateness required. Approved unanimously. - 5g. East Ocala CRA Commercial Property Improvement Grant – $10,871 for parking lot improvements (gravel driveway to concrete) at 226 NE Sanchez Avenue (Moses Property Holdings LLC / Joshua Moses; law firm office). Approved unanimously. (Note: The chair mistakenly called for item 5H while reading the description for 5G; the error was corrected and the board proceeded accordingly.) - 5h. East Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant – $20,000 for repainting primary residence and garage at 1030 NE Third Street (Richard Brinkley; home built 1901, last painted 20 years ago). Maximum award. Approved unanimously. - 5i. East Ocala CRA Commercial Property Improvement Grant – $9,128 for replacing original single-pane pulley windows (nearly 100 years old) at 23 NE 12th Terrace. Approved unanimously. - 5j. East Ocala CRA Residential Property Improvement Grant – $20,000 for repainting two residential buildings (including historic Blakely House) and exterior repairs at 103 SE Tuscawilla Avenue. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments. Discussion Items - No board discussion or debate occurred beyond brief staff presentations by Economic Development Manager Roberto Ellis. Key Outcomes - All agenda items (minutes and ten grants) were approved unanimously (5-0) with no opposition. The board noted that after these approvals, approximately 80–82% of East Ocala CRA funds have been allocated for the fiscal year. The meeting adjourned shortly after the final vote.

The Ocala City Council met on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included service awards for four employees, approval of a consent agenda, first readings of five ordinances related to rezoning and land use changes, adoption of a police retirement ordinance, approval of multiple general business items, and extensive public comment and council discussion on a proposed ban on Kratom sales within the city. Consent Calendar - Five-year Pole Attachment Agreement with BellSouth Telecommunications (AT&T Florida) for attaching equipment to city-owned utility poles. - Second Amendment to Agreement with Powerserve Technologies, Inc. extending delivery deadline and increasing contract amount by $82,721. - Contract for environmental water testing services with Advanced Environmental Laboratories, Inc. for up to $66,517. - Annual renewal of GrayKey forensic software at $74,740. - Additional funding of $6,367 for emergency rental of a 25-ton air conditioner from Sunbelt Rentals, total $10,403. - Approval of City Council meeting minutes. All consent items were approved unanimously (5-0) by roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Christopher Dippon (1612 NE 25th Ave, Lot B) described a road rage incident where a driver displayed a firearm and criticized OPD's response, stating officers told him the display was protected by the Second Amendment. He expressed frustration and said he is contacting the Florida State Senator's office. - Alicia Gonzalez Julias (5565 SW 8th Loop) spoke tearfully about the death of her 41-year-old brother from Kratom ingestion. She detailed the compound's toxicity and claimed over 750 Kratom-related deaths have been reported by Florida medical examiners. She urged the Council to ban the sale of Kratom. - Ian Crawford (900 SE 3rd Ave) shared his near-death experience from taking 7 Stacks Kratom Hydro-Blend, which caused him and a friend to overdose and fall into comas. He cited 3,672 suspected overdose EMS encounters involving Kratom or derivatives between January 2023 and April 2026. He asked the Council to ban the product. Discussion Items - Service Awards (Items 4a-4d): Recognized Priscilla Davis (20 years, Recreation & Parks), Alton Peebles, Jr. (25 years, Ocala Electric Utility), Linda Roos (25 years, Ocala Police Department), and Captain Sandra Duryea (30 years, Ocala Police Department). - Ordinances Introduced (First Readings): Five ordinances were introduced for future public hearings (second and final reading set for August 4, 2026): - Ordinance 2026-22: Rezone 82.10 acres at 5575 SW 52nd Street from A-1 (Agriculture) to PD (Planned Development). - Ordinance 2026-23: Change future land use designation from Neighborhood to Public for 4.06 acres on SW 20th Street. - Ordinance 2026-24: Rezone 4.06 acres on SW 20th Street from R-1 and B-1A to G-U (Governmental Use). - Ordinance 2026-25: Change future land use from Neighborhood to Low Intensity for 4.88 acres on SW 20th Street. - Ordinance 2026-26: Rezone 2.99 acres on SW 20th Street from R-3 to INST (Institutional). - Ordinance 2026-21 (Adoption): Amended Chapter 43 (Police Officers' Retirement System) to conform to the 2025-2028 collective bargaining agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police. Changes include increased employee contribution rates, a cost-of-living adjustment funding mechanism, revised Chapter 185 revenue allocation, and updates to the deferred retirement option plan. Adopted unanimously (5-0). - General Business Items (Items 10a-10i): All approved unanimously: - $1,100,000 additional expenditure for two auto transformers (price adjustment for Gearman substation). - $110,250 contract with C & M Lawncare and Tree Service for grounds maintenance at Ocala Wetland Recharge Park. - $250,000 estimated aggregate for second amendment with Polydyne, Inc. for liquid polymer supply. - $107,100 aggregate three-year contract with JJ Holding and Services, LLC for janitorial services at OPD locations. - $539,682 fourth amendment with Wear Gloves, Inc. for litter control and drain cleaning (Council members praised the company's performance and workforce integration). - Second amendments with Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering, PLLC and McFarland Johnson, Inc. for general aviation engineering services. - Resolution 2026-44: Accept $178,558 FAA grant to design Taxiway A Holding Bay at Ocala International Airport. - Budget Resolution 2026-151: Appropriate $178,558 grant plus $9,398 city match for total project cost of $187,956. - Item 10j (State Homeland Security Program Grant for Real Time Crime Center - $1,300,000): Pulled by Council President Bethea; no further action taken. - City Manager's Report: Discussed scheduling interviews for Internal Auditor. Four applicants will be interviewed one-on-one with Council on August 11, 2026, starting at 9:30 AM, followed by a public component. The August 11 date (same day as a budget workshop) was chosen by consensus. City Manager Peter Lee also noted that storms on July 11 caused 70 outages affecting nearly 7,200 people; public works removed about 32 trees. He also announced Ocala was named one of the eight best U.S. cities for baby boomers by Travel and Leisure Magazine. - Ocala Police Department Report: Chief Michael Balken reported violent crime up slightly (896 incidents year-to-date, 75% misdemeanor batteries). Property crimes also up, with frauds largest category. Societal crimes on par with 2025. Over 7,800 incidents handled in the two-week period, with 2,700 dispatched calls (up 11%) and over 5,000 proactive calls. Officers conducted nearly 1,000 traffic stops and investigated 135 crashes. Highlights included an arson arrest with U.S. Marshals and a felony firearm arrest. A 2024 homicide suspect received a life sentence. - Ocala Fire Rescue Department Report: Chief Clint Welburn reported 1,110 calls in the two-week period (15,249 year-to-date). Includes 162 motor vehicle accidents, 2 structure fires, and 97 community paramedic calls. The July 11 storm generated 28 emergency calls, 24 within the first 90 minutes. - Mayor and Council Comments on Kratom Ban: Mayor Marciano proposed banning Kratom sales in Ocala, citing nine states that have banned it, California's recent action, Florida Attorney General's emergency order on 7-OH, and local deaths/overdoses. He advocated partnering with Marion County. City Attorney Will said he has discussed a draft ordinance with the county and recommended collaboration. Council members expressed strong support, with discussions on enforcement (code enforcement vs. criminal penalties) and potential legal challenges under Senate Bill 180. The consensus direction was for the City Attorney to work with the county on an ordinance and bring it back for consideration. - Other Comments: Mayor recognized Community Housing Services Director James Haynes for finding housing for those in need. Council Pro Tem Musleh remembered former council member Charlie Ruse, who passed away. Council President Bethea commended city staff for storm recovery efforts. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved (5-0). - Ordinance 2026-21 adopted (5-0). - Five ordinances introduced for second reading on August 4, 2026. - General Business items 10a-10i approved (5-0 each). - Item 10j (SHSP Grant) pulled without action. - Internal Auditor interviews scheduled for August 11, 2026, at 9:30 AM. - Direction given to the City Attorney to draft a Kratom ban ordinance in collaboration with Marion County and bring it back to Council.

The Ocala Board of Adjustment met on July 20, 2026 at 5:30 PM to consider a Special Exception application for a professional and business office in an R-3 multi-family residential zone. The board also approved routine items and heard public comment. After deliberation, the board voted to continue the application to the September meeting to allow the applicant to address parking and site plan deficiencies. Consent Calendar - Proof of publication was acknowledged for the meeting notice posted at City Hall and published in the Ocala Gazette on July 3, 2026. - The minutes from the April 20, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - John Campbell, a resident and property owner of duplexes on 8th Avenue and Third Street, expressed concerns about increased traffic density, parking congestion, and emergency vehicle access in the area. He opposed additional parking on Third Street. - Samantha Ramirez, agent for applicant Izoluc, LLC, stated the proposed use is a low-traffic office with scheduled appointments, four employees, and no heavy vehicles. She indicated willingness to adjust the site plan and noted previous conceptual plans were discussed with staff. Discussion Items - Staff presented the Special Exception request for a professional and business office at the corner of Northeast Sanchez Avenue and Northeast Third Street. The existing single-family residence and accessory dwelling unit (constructed 1938) would be reused. Staff recommended denial due to inadequate parking (4 spaces provided vs. 6 required), tandem parking that blocks ADA access, lack of safe ingress/egress, insufficient buffering from adjacent residential properties, and incompatibility with the surrounding area. - Board members questioned staff on parking requirements, setback restrictions, ADA compliance, emergency access, and the possibility of a parking reduction under Section 122-1016. Staff clarified that a new access point might be possible but would require engineering review. - Board members expressed support for the office use but criticized the current site plan as a "hodgepodge" and noted the need for a proper civil engineer-designed layout. They suggested the applicant could use the side yard for parking with a new access point. - Applicant's agent confirmed that other conceptual plans were previously discussed but not submitted for this hearing. She requested feedback and expressed willingness to work with a civil engineer and the city. Key Outcomes - The board voted unanimously (6-0, with one member absent) to continue the application to the September Board of Adjustment meeting to allow the applicant to revise the site plan. - Conditions for reconsideration include addressing parking deficiencies, ADA compliance, safe circulation, and adequate buffering. - The August 17, 2026 meeting will be cancelled, and the next meeting is scheduled for September.

This meeting of the West Ocala CRA Advisory Committee was held on July 16, 2026, at Ocala City Hall. Due to the absence of the chair and vice chair, committee member Brady Fritz was nominated and approved as acting chair. The meeting focused on informational staff updates regarding changes to the CRA grant program, a City Council workshop recap, and the status of the Tucker Hill redevelopment project. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 21, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (5-0) as presented. Discussion Items - City Council Workshop Recap (June 9, 2026): Staff liaison Roberto Ellis reported on discussions from the City Council work session. Key points included a review of CRA goals, the role of advisory committees, and the impact of the newly adopted Vision 2050 plan. The committee agreed to streamline the grant program, standardize deadlines (applications closing at month’s end), and allow the city manager to approve grants under certain emergency conditions (within 10 days). The goal is to reduce the average grant approval time from 76 days to 46 days. Clearer bylaws for advisory committees are being developed, including attendance expectations and membership protocols. Future meetings will be scheduled 12 times per year, with shorter, policy-focused sessions. - Tucker Hill (Seventh Avenue Subdivision) Update: Eric Smith, Senior Transportation Project Administrator, reported that the Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) for Tucker Hill has been posted. The final parcel number was obtained, resolving outstanding issues. The property layout includes approximately six developable lots on the left side and seven on the right, with a city-built park in the middle. The ITN is open for bids via bidocala.com. - Grant Program Modifications: Roberto Ellis outlined proposed changes to the residential and commercial grant frameworks. Residential grants will prioritize comprehensive projects over standalone items (e.g., painting, fencing). Commercial grants may allow a single bid from a licensed general contractor instead of requiring two quotes. New construction in non-priority areas (e.g., along State Road 200) will require permanent structures with a minimum 15-year stay. Clarifications will be added for eligible work items, project start deadlines, and reimbursement procedures. - Grant Updates: Since the last meeting, three new single-family affordable housing units were completed in the West Ocala CRA. A grant for Wallach Coffee (300 sq ft modular structure) on State Road 200 was approved on June 16, 2026. A new application from Ramona Williamson for 2036 NW 2nd Street was presented: repainting and a new metal roof for a grant amount of $11,546. A site visit confirmed eligibility. - Follow-Up on Previous Items: The Wallach Coffee building is 300 square feet. No ordinance currently exists to regulate scooters or e-bikes; the engineering department is investigating. Key Outcomes - Minutes from May 21, 2026 were approved (5-0). - Staff will continue developing the revised grant program documents and present them for future approval. - The Tucker Hill ITN is open; bids can be submitted via the city’s procurement portal. - The next meeting is scheduled for September 17, 2026. - Meeting adjourned with no further business.

The Ocala Airport Advisory Board met on July 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the City Council Chambers. Key actions included approval of June meeting minutes, acceptance of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Improvement grant for Taxiway A Holding Bay design, approval of second-year extensions for two engineering consultant agreements, and a detailed presentation on the draft Airport Master Plan. The Airport Director provided updates on several ongoing projects. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - June Meeting Minutes: Approved by voice vote (motion by Mr. Klein, second by Mr. Reed). - Resolution to Accept FAA Grant for Taxiway A Holding Bay Design: Approved by voice vote (motion made, seconded, all in favor). The grant amount is $178,558 for design of a holding bay to improve departure efficiency. - Second Amendment to Agreement with McFarland Johnson, Inc.: Approved by voice vote, extending professional aviation engineering services for one additional year. - Second Amendment to Agreement with Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering, PLLC: Approved by voice vote, also extending services for one additional year. Discussion Items - Airport Master Plan Presentation: - Gavin Feinstock (Southeast Planning Manager, McFarland Johnson) presented high-level findings of the completed draft master plan. - Key findings: Strong economic growth driving demand; operations forecast to grow at just under 4% annually, reaching over 200,000 annual operations in 20 years; fleet mix shifting to larger aircraft, requiring infrastructure changes. - Proposed improvements over short (0–5 years), medium (6–10 years), and long (11+ years) phases: runway extension to just over 7,800 feet, realignment of the crosswind runway (Runway 8/26) into a parallel runway (north-south) to improve capacity, relocation of navigational aids, new parallel Taxiway Charlie, rehabilitation of the main runway, and space reserved for a potential commercial service terminal. - Board members asked about the methodology for determining the crosswind runway is no longer necessary (wind data analysis showing 95% coverage on primary runway) and about the potential for additional T-hangars. - T-Hangar Discussion: The wait list is 35 people, but many pass when offered. Airport Director Matt stated preference to keep T-hangars on the east side near small aircraft users to avoid mixing with larger commercial traffic on the west side. Board members suggested exploring T-hangar development north of the Aeroplex as a quicker option. No vote was taken on this policy issue. - Airport Director's Report (Matt): - FDOT Pond Relocation: Task work order received, pending City Council approval to allow road extension to SW 60th Avenue. - MALSR/RPZ RY36 Grading: Still awaiting FAA grant. - Terminal Apron Rehab: 99% complete; waiting on concrete vault lids from France (backordered). - A9 Driveway: Near completion of design, in stormwater permitting. - A12 Infrastructure: In permitting; estimated $2 million for flat work; corporate interest noted. - Concrete Pads and T-Hangar Campus Rehab: Both to be bid together, in permitting. - TWY-C Phase I: Grant request submitted to state, being refined to include job creation data. - Airshow Planning: Planner in town coordinating with hotels, tourism board, police, and fire; detailed presentation planned for next meeting; event dates: April 30 - May 2, 2027. - Fuel and Ops: Operations down slightly year-over-year; fuel sales trending well. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Approval of June meeting minutes (unanimous). - Approval of resolution accepting FAA grant for Taxiway A Holding Bay design (unanimous). - Approval of second amendments for McFarland Johnson and Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering contracts (unanimous). - Next Steps: The master plan is near final; staff to refine TWY-C grant application with job impact data; additional T-hangar location to be studied; airshow presentation at next meeting. - Adjournment: Motion made and approved, meeting ended.

The Ocala Planning & Zoning Commission met on Monday, July 13, 2026, beginning at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board considered seven quasi-judicial items, including an abrogation, land use changes, and rezoning requests. All items were approved except for one abstention on the abrogation condition re-vote. The meeting concluded with staff and board comments regarding future meeting schedules and training opportunities. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the June 8, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (5-0, with three members absent: Justin MacDonald, Thaddius Neasman, and Allison Campbell). Discussion Items - ABR25-0003: Abrogation of Rights-of-Way (Magnolia Extension LLC): The board initially approved the abrogation without conditions (vote 5-1, with Kevin Lopez dissenting). After a procedural correction, the board then voted unanimously (6-0) to add the staff-recommended conditions requiring the applicant to assume maintenance of sewer lines and convert a street light to a yard light. - ZON25-0008: Rezoning to M-1 Light Industrial (Magnolia Extension LLC): Approved unanimously (6-0) to rezone 5.93 acres at 314 and 28 NW 14th Street and 1332 NW Magnolia Terrace from M-1/B-4 to M-1, consistent with existing low intensity land use. The applicant indicated no immediate plans but wants to unify zoning for future expansion. - LUC26-0002 & ZON26-0007: Land Use Change and Rezoning for City-Owned Disaster Debris Site (1700 block NW MLK Jr Ave, 11.20 acres): The commission approved both items unanimously (6-0 each). The future land use changes from Medium Intensity/Special District to Public, and the zoning changes from M-2/M-3 to GU. The city intends to use the three contiguous parcels as a disaster debris management site, with potential future drainage retention expansion. - LUC26-0005: Land Use Change to Public (700 block NW 14th Street, 0.52 acres): Approved unanimously (6-0) to change from Neighborhood to Public for a city-owned parcel used for disaster debris management, surrounded by other public-designated parcels. - ZON26-0012: Rezoning to Government Use (700/800 blocks NW 14th Street et al., 9.94 acres): Approved with a 5-1 vote (Tamboura Jenkins dissenting). The four city-owned parcels (three already public land use, one just changed) were rezoned from R-2 to GU. Commissioner Jenkins expressed concern about proximity to residential areas and potential noise from debris operations. - ZON26-0006: Rezoning to B-1 Neighborhood Business (1501 NW 14th Street, 3.23 acres): Approved unanimously (6-0) to rezone from GU to B-1 for a property housing a radio tower and building owned by WOCA Radio. The applicant plans to possibly relocate their studio there. One public commenter (Anthony Collins, resident at 1425 NW 16th Court) expressed concerns about noise, traffic, and hours of operation. - ZON26-0010: Rezoning to M-2 Medium Industrial (1700 block NE 18th Place, 3.05 acres): Approved unanimously (6-0) to rezone from M-1 to M-2 to eliminate split zoning on a parcel (owned by Ben Katz via representative Matthew Payne). The change allows more outdoor storage (no 20% limit) and aligns with surrounding industrial development. Public Comments & Testimony - Anthony Collins (resident at 1425 NW 16th Court) spoke during public comment for ZON26-0006, asking about operating hours, traffic, and potential events at the proposed radio station studio. He noted his bedroom is less than 300 feet from the building. Key Outcomes - Approvals: All seven agenda items were approved with the following votes: - ABR25-0003: First motion (without conditions) passed 5-1; second motion (with conditions) passed 6-0. - ZON25-0008, LUC26-0002, ZON26-0007, LUC26-0005, ZON26-0006, ZON26-0010: Each passed unanimously (6-0). - ZON26-0012: Passed 5-1 (Tamboura Jenkins dissenting). - Next Steps: Cases will be presented to the Ocala City Council on a schedule provided after each case. The next P&Z meeting is scheduled for August 10, 2026, but staff noted it may be canceled if only one pending case. Staff also announced potential changes to board structure, term lengths, and training opportunities.