Public Meetings - Ocala, Florida

The meeting was scheduled to consider an annexation and land use change for a property at 5575 SW 52nd Street. No transcript or minutes were provided, so only agenda items are summarized. Note: The agenda indicates the meeting date as Tuesday, May 26, 2026, which conflicts with the provided date of May 22, 2026. This discrepancy is noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from March 9, 2026, and May 11, 2026. (Agenda item 3; no action recorded.) Public Comments & Testimony - Agenda item 6: Public Comments. No testimony recorded. Discussion Items - Annexation (Case ANX26-0001): Ordinance to annex approximately 82.40 acres at 5575 SW 52nd Street from county to city jurisdiction. Quasi-judicial. Presented by Aubrey Hale. - Land Use Change (Case LUC26-0001): Ordinance to change future land use designation of the same property from High Residential (County) to Low Intensity (City). Quasi-judicial. Presented by Aubrey Hale. Key Outcomes - No votes or decisions are recorded due to lack of transcript and minutes. The next meeting is scheduled for June 8, 2026. Date Discrepancy - The agenda states the meeting date as Tuesday, May 26, 2026, while the instruction specifies May 22, 2026. This conflict cannot be resolved with available information.

The Ocala Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Advisory Committee met on May 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. The meeting focused on the election of officers, presentation of the annual fiscal report, discussion of grant programs, and upcoming training and workshop opportunities. The meeting adjourned at 3:36 p.m. Election of Officers - The committee elected a new chair and vice chair for the term ending March 1, 2027. The current chair position was vacant following the resignation of Dr. Brooks, with Vice Chair Reed acting as chair. - Chair: Ms. Reed was nominated and elected unanimously. She will serve a second consecutive year (this year and through March 2027), after which a new chair must be appointed. - Vice Chair: Dennis McFadden was nominated and elected unanimously. Staff Comments and Annual Report - Staff presented the annual fiscal year report for the period from September 30, 2024, to October 1, 2025. Key highlights: - Taxable values increased across all four CRAs, with the West Ocala CRA experiencing the highest growth, followed by East Ocala, Downtown, and North Magnolia. - The CRAs collectively received $4.3 million in increment revenue (staff later clarified $4.9 million raised). Approximately $2 million of this came from the West Ocala CRA. - During the year, 38 grants (residential, property improvement, catalytic) totaling $3.8 million were awarded. - 42 projects were completed across all four areas, leveraging $9.8 million in capital investment, covering facade improvements, affordable housing, catalytic projects, and redevelopment. - Staff noted that the grant program remains the most active implementation tool and encouraged suggestions for changes. Other Discussion Items - Vacancies: The West Ocala CRA has one vacancy; East Ocala and North Magnolia have two vacancies each. The Brownfields Advisory Committee has multiple vacancies. Staff invited interested individuals to apply. - CRA Board Training: A training opportunity by the Florida Redevelopment Association is scheduled for June 11 (Winter Haven) and June 12 (Panama City). The CRA will cover expenses for up to two members from each advisory committee. - City Council Workshop: On June 9, 2026, there will be a split workshop addressing city boards and commissions, and proposed policy changes to CRA grant programs. Committee members were encouraged to attend. - Affordable Housing Event: Staff participated in an affordable housing event on May 14, 2026, at the Mary Sewridge Community Center at Reeds Place, which had a great turnout. - E-bike and Scooter Concerns: A committee member raised concerns about e-bikes and electric scooters riding on sidewalks and potential safety issues. Staff indicated they would discuss with engineering regarding any relevant ordinances. - Grant Eligibility: In response to a question, staff clarified that tenants may apply for grants with the property owner's sign-off, and the applicant would be reimbursed for improvements. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for July 21, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. (a Tuesday due to chamber availability; meetings are normally held on the third Thursday). Key Outcomes - The committee elected Ms. Reed as Chair and Dennis McFadden as Vice Chair for the term ending March 1, 2027. - Staff will follow up on e-bike/scooter concerns with the engineering department. - The committee received the annual fiscal report and noted the progress of CRA projects and grants. - Staff will continue to promote CRA grant programs and fill vacancies on advisory committees.

The Ocala City Council met on May 19, 2026 at 4:00 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Ben Marciano presided. Council members present: Kristen M. Dreyer, James P. Hilty Sr., Barry Mansfield, and Council President Ire J. Bethea Sr.; Pro Tem Jay A. Musleh was excused. The meeting included proclamations, consent agenda, public hearings, general business, public comments, and department reports. Proclamations & Awards - Mayor Marciano presented the Mayor’s Citizen Recognition Award to Pebbles Vance for her work with United Way helping families regain independent living. - National Public Works Week Proclamation presented to Public Works Director Darren Park. - Battalion Chief Steven Feagle of Ocala Fire Rescue received a Service Award for 25 years of service. Consent Calendar All consent items were approved by a 4‑0 roll‑call vote (moved by Dreyer, seconded by Mansfield). Items included: - Participation Agreement with American Public Power Association for cyber security defense ($55,000) - Agreement with Marion County Public Schools for bus rental for summer programs ($1,200) - Public Transportation Grant Agreement extensions for Taxiway C design and North Development Access Road - Resolution 2026‑29 amending a Public Transportation Grant Agreement for FDOT drainage retention area relocation - Assignment of ground leases from Londons Landholdings, LLC and Gabriels Winghouse, LLC to Wing It Florida, LLC - Award of contract for Wiggington residence rehabilitation (123 SW 11th Ave) to Ulloa Management Group, LLC ($53,994) - Budget Resolution 2026‑141 appropriating funds from Infrastructure Sales Surtax Reserve for OPD Real Time Crime Center engineering plans ($42,504) - Engineering and audio‑visual cabling for OPD Real Time Crime Center ($42,504) - Purchase of Micro Indoor Optical Network Terminals for Ocala Fiber Network ($82,385) - Appointment of Rita Masters to Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board - Approval of City Council meeting minutes - Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for community policing education ($36,883) Public Hearings – Second Readings / Adoption of Ordinances (Quasi-Judicial) 9a. Ordinance 2026‑15 – Mockingbird Ridge Community Development District (169.31 acres) – Chief Planning Official Endira Madraveren presented the request to establish a CDD to finance and maintain public infrastructure. Staff found it consistent with the comprehensive plan and recommended approval. Adopted 4‑0 (moved by Dreyer, seconded by Mansfield). 9b. Resolution 2026‑30 – Amendment to Kenward at Heathbrook Planned Development (32.22 acres) – The amendment would change building types from duplexes to quadruplexes (146 units, same density), reduce minimum lot width to 15 feet, increase open space from 41% to 53%, and modify access (two points on Tartan Road, removal of SW 66th Street access). Staff recommended approval despite the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recommendation for denial due to wetland reconfiguration. Public comments: Three residents (Thomas Burkhart, Brian Hayes, Kelly Haynes) spoke in opposition, citing traffic congestion, wetland destruction, wildlife loss, and aesthetic concerns. Applicant’s presentation: Rob Batsel (Eisenhower Property Group) argued the revised plan preserves high‑value wetlands, improves drainage, and includes enhanced landscaping. Engineer Bo Clymer detailed that 6.41 acres of wetlands exist, with 1.6 acres of impact; state environmental review is underway. Council discussion: Hilty voted no, citing the wetland impact. Adopted 3‑1 (Dreyer, Mansfield, Bethea aye; Hilty nay; Musleh excused; moved by Hilty, seconded by Mansfield). 9c. Resolution 2026‑31 – Amendment to Saving Mercy Planned Development (9.31 acres) – The amendment increases residential units from 144 to 200 (20 duplexes + 180 multifamily), maximum building height from 35 to 45 feet, and revises the layout into four phases. Density remains within Employment Center future land use limits. Staff and P&Z recommended approval. Public comment: Chuck Pigeon (Adore Group) explained construction delays due to material shortages; the 45‑foot height allows a smaller footprint and more open space. Mayor Marciano and Council Member Dreyer praised the affordable housing project as high‑quality. Adopted 4‑0 (moved by Dreyer, seconded by Mansfield). 9d. Resolution 2026‑32 – Amendment to 60th Avenue Parcels Planned Development (61.4 acres) – Minor amendments to layout, setbacks, roadways, signage, and allowance for ancillary structures up to 35 feet within the 100‑foot height‑restricted buffer. Density/intensity unchanged (11.88 acres commercial, 750 residential units). Staff and P&Z recommended approval. Applicant’s representative confirmed conditions are acceptable. Adopted 4‑0 (moved by Mansfield, seconded by Dreyer). General Business 10a. Resolution 2026‑33 – Adoption of Ocala Safety Action Plan – Deputy City Engineer Noel Cooper reported the City received a FY23 Safe Streets and Roads for All grant ($104,000 federal + $26,000 city match). Public engagement included two community meetings, a project website, and a Council workshop on May 12, 2026. The plan guides roadway‑safety improvements and positions the city for future grants. Adopted 4‑0 (moved by Hilty, seconded by Mansfield). 10b. Additional expenditures for citywide painting services (up to $350,000) – Gary Crews (Facilities Division) requested approval to complete remaining CIP 2026 locations. Approved 4‑0 (moved by Dreyer, seconded by Hilty). 10c. Award of contract to HDR Engineering for SunTran comprehensive operational analysis ($215,998) – Funded by FTA capital funds with no local match. Council Member Mansfield questioned the cost and necessity; staff (Transit Administrator Tom Duncan and Growth Management Director Jeff Shrum) explained the analysis will assess efficiency, financial sustainability, and inform the upcoming Transit Development Plan. Approved 4‑0 (moved by Dreyer, seconded by Hilty). 10d. Purchase of inventory items for Ocala Electric Utility ($217,084) – Doug Peebles (Utility Director) noted 30% of costs reimbursed by developers. Approved 4‑0 (moved by Mansfield, seconded by Hilty). 10e. Retroactive approval of SHIP funding overage for Simpson rehabilitation ($8,277) – James Haynes (Community Housing Services) explained a compliance monitoring revealed costs exceeded the internal limit; retroactive approval avoids repayment to the state. Approved 4‑0 (moved by Dreyer, seconded by Mansfield). 10f. Budget Resolution 2026‑142 – Appropriation from East Ocala CRA Reserve for redevelopment grants ($358,000) – Roberto Ellis (Economic Development) noted CRA board approved. A resident, Jonathan Tom Have, spoke in support of continuing historic district renewal. Adopted 4‑0 (moved by Hilty, seconded by Dreyer). Department Reports - Ocala Police Department: Chief Mike Balken reported total incidents up 0.5% to 7,762; crime calls up 18%; traffic stops up 26% (over 1,000); crash rate down 9%. K‑9 Unit highlights: nearly 700 drug sniffs, 849 arrests (138 directly attributed), 22 firearms seized, over 1,800 training hours. A future explosives‑detection K‑9 is planned, funded by community donations. - Ocala Fire Rescue: Chief Clint Welborn reported 1,082 calls in the two‑week period (10,370 YTD), including 6 structure fires, 202 motor‑vehicle accidents, and the arrival of new Rescue 7 apparatus. Public Comments - Patricia Tomlinson (606 SE 33rd Ave) expressed strong concern about the planned end of curbside recycling, citing landfill capacity, reduced participation with drop‑offs, and lack of public education. She urged the Council to find an alternative. - Mamie Fisher (4680 SW 22nd Pl, Bear Track Ranch) criticized lack of communication from developers of a nearby project, stating they promised follow‑up meetings but never contacted residents after an initial 2025 meeting. She requested improved notification processes. - Kelly McAtee (1117 SE 28th Ave) thanked Ocala Fire Rescue for saving her home from a fire two weeks prior. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items approved (4‑0). - Ordinance 2026‑15 adopted (4‑0) establishing Mockingbird Ridge CDD. - Resolution 2026‑30 adopted (3‑1, Hilty dissenting) with conditions for Kenward at Heathbrook PD amendment. - Resolution 2026‑31 adopted (4‑0) for Saving Mercy PD amendment. - Resolution 2026‑32 adopted (4‑0) for 60th Avenue Parcels PD amendment. - Resolution 2026‑33 adopted (4‑0) adopting the Ocala Safety Action Plan. - Additional painting services expenditures approved (4‑0). - HDR Engineering contract for SunTran analysis approved (4‑0). - Electric utility inventory purchase approved (4‑0). - Retroactive SHIP funding overage approved (4‑0). - Budget Resolution 2026‑142 adopted (4‑0) for East Ocala CRA grants. - Mayor Marciano recognized the fallen officer memorial, announced continued operation of the domestic‑violence center (Lotus) with support from Meadowbrook Church and AdventHealth, and raised concern about 35‑40 veterans at the Ritz Hotel facing homelessness due to a missed federal grant deadline. Council discussed potential use of opioid settlement funds. - Meeting adjourned at 5:53 PM.

The Ocala Historic Preservation Advisory Board meeting on May 14, 2026, at 3:00 PM in Ocala City Hall was called to order but immediately adjourned due to lack of a quorum. Only four members were present: Jane Cosand, Carol Barber, Rick Hugli, and Tom McCullough. Noelle Smith, Joshua DeMonte, and Holland Drake were absent. Without a quorum, the board could not vote on any agenda items, including the three Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) listed for review. Public Meeting Notice - Staff confirmed that the public notice for the meeting was posted on April 28, 2026. Certificates of Appropriateness (Not Considered) - Three COA applications were scheduled but not heard due to the lack of quorum: - Case File 136; COA26-0021: 706 SE 4th Street – Aluminum fence. - Case File 187; COA26-0022: 713 SE 2nd Street – In-ground swimming pool and deck. - Case File 105; COA26-0026: 723 E Fort King St. – Shed. Key Outcomes - No action taken: The board could not vote on any items due to insufficient members for a quorum. - Meeting adjourned: The meeting was adjourned shortly after roll call. - Next meeting: The next regularly scheduled meeting is June 4, 2026, at 4:00 PM. Although a move to an earlier date was briefly discussed, it was not feasible due to chamber availability and other scheduling constraints (including a holiday week and construction in the chambers).

The Contractors Board of Examiners and Appeals met on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The sole agenda item discussed was a new business case involving an uncompleted building permit for a billboard sign. The meeting concluded quickly with a board decision. New Business - Case No: CON25-0043 — City of Ocala vs. Diamond’s Electric Signs Inc. - Location: 3030 W Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL - Violation: Section 22-151(A)(12) of the City Code: Proceeding and/or completing contracting work without proper permit finalization. - Staff report: Inspector Jeffrey Guilbault testified that the permit (Sign Permit No. 24-0135) expired on July 5, 2025. Only a footer inspection had been completed; electrical, structural, and architectural reviews were never finished. The contractor was contacted multiple times via email and phone but did not respond. The billboard exists and is operational, as confirmed by staff and Google Street View imagery from December 2025. - Board deliberation: Board members questioned whether photographic evidence was required; staff clarified it was not mandatory. The board found the violation valid. Key Outcomes - Motion and vote: Board member Edward Ferrentino moved to accept staff recommendation, which included a fine and a letter of reprimand. The motion was seconded and carried unanimously (no opposition noted). - Additional motion: The board voted to accept all evidence and testimony into the official record. Motion carried. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after the case was resolved. Public Comments - No members of the public spoke during the public comments period. Staff Comments - Staff confirmed that no other cases were presented and rested. Next Meeting - The next regular meeting was not specified during the session.

The Ocala Municipal Code Enforcement Board met on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in Council Chambers at City Hall, 110 SE Watula Avenue, Ocala, Florida; the agenda, published May 1, 2026, listed the meeting at 5:30 PM. The seven-member volunteer board (four members are required for a quorum) heard new-business code violation cases, old-business non-compliance (Massey) hearings, a petition to reduce accrued fines, and a consolidated consent agenda. Code Enforcement Manager Dale Hollingsworth explained that under Florida Statutes Chapter 162.03, orders entered by the City's special magistrate carry the same weight as board orders, so the non-compliance hearings were not appeals but reviews of compliance, fines, and extension requests as if the board had entered the original orders. All motions carried by voice vote with no opposition voiced. The agenda included a public comments period, but no separate public comments were heard before adjournment; citizens testified within their individual cases. Consent Calendar - Minutes: No minutes were presented for approval. - Swearing-in: Officers Dale Hollingsworth, Jennipher Buller, Rob Moore, Stephani Smith, Osias Ferreira, Jeff Guilbault, Steve Knight, and Greg McClellan were sworn in. - Consent agenda for non-compliance (Massey) hearings: The board accepted the staff request to proceed with the prior orders in 18 old-business cases: CE25-0133, CE25-1237, CE25-1310, CE26-0017, CE26-0022, CE26-0080, CE26-0081, CE26-0082, CE26-0093, CE26-0094, CE26-0123, CE26-0146, CE26-0157, CE26-0180, CE26-0221, ENV25-0331, ENV25-0340, and ENV26-0001. - Record: The board voted to accept all evidence, testimony, and presentations into the official record. - Routine new-business cases (no owner contact or testimony): The board approved staff recommendations for CE26-0137 (Seranno Lisa Est., 2613 NE 19th Ave — dangerous building and permit violations; fire damage since Jan 31, no repair permits, unpermitted access ramp); CE26-0175 (Merkison Eva L. Est. et al., 429 SW 3rd St — weeds and trash; no contact since March); CE26-0293 (Dunbar John L. Jr. and Irene R., 3206 SE 6th St — miscellaneous nuisance; no contact); CE26-0304 (Powerin 3 Properties LLC, 3018 SW 16th Pl — weeds and trash; no contact); CE26-0380 (Hermin Paul, 730 NW 15th Ave — prohibited fence wire, abandoned or derelict vehicles, weeds and trash; no contact); CE26-0467 (Salom Orlando, 24 NW 6th Ter — weeds and trash and fence violations; no contact); ENV26-0176 (Marion County JCB Holdings LLC, 1700 block NW 1st St — repeat violator, weeds and trash; no contact); ENV26-0204 (Raiford Alene Est., 1114 SW Fort King St — weeds and trash; no contact). Discussion Items - CSX Transportation Inc. — ENV26-0088, ENV26-0089, ENV26-0090, ENV26-0092 (continued to June 11, 2026): The four cases allege violations of the Florida Fire Prevention Code (Section 38-81) and unauthorized discharge (Section 38-122) at NW 14th Rd/NW 14th Ave, 1017 N Magnolia Ave, 1140/1100 NW 1st Ave, and NW 6th Ter at the N Pine overpass. Staff met CSX's legal counsel for the first time the prior month; counsel was unable to attend this meeting. The board granted the city's requested 30-day continuance to June 11, 2026, across all four cases. - CE26-0150 — City v. Catherine Acosta (1715 SW 3rd St): Dangerous structure and work without permits. Permit BLD26-0747, applied for April 2, had not been issued because structural comments were not returned, and $171.47 in prosecution costs remained unpaid. Acosta testified that her contractor was abroad after a death in the family and would return the following Monday. The board granted an extension to June 11, 2026, requiring the permit to be obtained and prosecution costs paid by that date (the motion was amended to add the permit requirement). - CE26-0452 — City v. Joan Armon (1641 SW Fort King St): Weeds/trash (Section 34-95) and dangerous building (Section 82-182). Inspector Osias Ferreira testified that a citizen complaint on April 2 led him to find cracked concrete, a broken window, a caving bathroom floor, black mold, and debris; the home could not be occupied. Armon, age 79, said she paid $1,000 for cleanup before the citation came, called the enforcement too quick, and asked for two to three months. The board granted an extension to July 11, 2026, on condition the residence remain vacant. - ENV26-0072 — City v. College Park Plaza LLC (3131 SW College Rd): Repeat-violator trash/litter case originally heard by the special magistrate on March 25, 2026. Staff showed the same styrofoam container in photos from May 1 and May 11, indicating trash had not been picked up in that period; the Ocala Police Department had also complained about visual blight. The representative said a janitorial service and landscape crew had been hired and questioned whether the wooded area was on the plaza's property; staff replied that property boundaries were established in the prior order. The board denied further extension and imposed the additional $250-per-day fine, making the total accrual $500 per day; accrued fines as of the meeting were $24,500. The representative was told he could petition for fine reduction after achieving compliance. - 202310164 — City v. Shamrock Cove Inn LLC (215 S Pine Ave): A case dating to 2023, prosecuted January 8, 2026. Violations related to unpermitted site and permitting work, including HVAC units installed without permits that were not approved for installation in Florida; the units were removed and associated electrical work still required permitting. Building official Greg McClellan testified no inspections had been requested since the failed one. Staff opposed an extension because the inn was actively renting rooms to guests while the unpermitted conditions existed. Representative Francisco La Sala requested a one-month extension; the board instead accepted the staff recommendation to impose fines. - 20205885 — Robinson petition (2345 NW 10th St): Robert and Shannon Robinson petitioned to reduce liens from seven older cases (COM 080546, COM 13-0023, COM 14-0222, COM 141934, COM 151502, 2019 2182, and 2025 885) involving miscellaneous nuisances and a dangerous structure demolished by the city. The violations predated the Robinsons' ownership. Total liens were $243,466.67, consisting of $226,400 in fines and $17,066.67 in hard costs; staff recommended reducing the total to $24,346.67 (10%). Robert Robinson testified that a closing attorney had incorrectly advised that the liens would not follow the property, that his business account lost about $22,000 in a single evening to a hacking theft, and that a discounted cash sale of the property was pending; he asked for further reduction or full abatement and offered a $4,000 good-faith payment. Staff said the payment was not necessary. The board reduced the fines to $1 while leaving the $17,066.67 in hard costs intact, for a remaining total of $17,067.67. - CE26-0050 — City v. Jack Martell (1610 NE 14th Ave): The compliance date had passed on April 9. Martell said he moved to Bronson without updating his address, missed the prior hearing, and did not receive notices, but he paid what he owed and cleaned the property. The board granted the staff-recommended extension to June 11, 2026, with a reinspection to occur before that date. - CE25-1101 — City v. Priest Family Trust / Wayne's World of Paintball (4841 S Pine Ave): Prosecuted March 25, 2026, before the special magistrate; violations include life-safety, electrical, plumbing, unpermitted work, and structures in need of demolition. Staff credited greatly improved communication; the plumbing permit was finaled and immediate electrical hazards were abated, but at least five to ten structures still required demolition. Attorney Scott Tepper (Cobb Cole) requested 60 days; staff recommended 30 days to keep the case moving. The board granted the 30-day extension. - CE26-0530 — City v. Paddock Park SC Ltd / IA Advisor Group / Beauty Lounge by Voupre (3101 SW 34th Ave, Unit 701): An unpermitted change of occupancy from a barbershop to a beauty salon, with unpermitted build-outs between 2023 and 2026. Inspectors found an open sewer-gas drain line (described by the board as an explosion hazard), no life-safety plan or exit signage, ventilation deficiencies, ADA non-compliance, and no plans submitted. The business tax certificate was now obtained; a building permit application was incomplete (submitted May 7) and a mechanical permit was in review (submitted May 11). McClellan said the submitted plans were generic renderings, not engineer-stamped drawings. The board ordered compliance by June 12, 2026, and — on a motion amended at staff's request — ordered the business immediately vacated until life-safety hazards (open drain line, exit signs, electrical) are abated and inspected. Staff said emergency plan review could occur within about two days. Key Outcomes - CSX Transportation: All four cases (ENV26-0088, -0089, -0090, -0092) continued to June 11, 2026. - Acosta (CE26-0150): Extension to June 11, 2026; permit obtained and $171.47 in prosecution costs paid by then. - Armon (CE26-0452): Extension to July 11, 2026; residence must remain vacant. - College Park Plaza (ENV26-0072): No further extension; additional $250/day fine imposed for $500/day total accrual; $24,500 accrued as of May 14. - Shamrock Cove Inn (202310164): Fines imposed; extension denied. - Robinson (20205885): Fines reduced to $1; $17,066.67 in hard costs remain (total $17,067.67). - Martell (CE26-0050): Extension to June 11, 2026, with reinspection before that date. - Wayne's World / Priest Family Trust (CE25-1101): 30-day extension granted. - Beauty Lounge (CE26-0530): Business ordered immediately vacated until life-safety hazards are abated; compliance deadline June 12, 2026. - Consent-agenda cases: Previous orders stand; all evidence was accepted into the record. - Next meeting: June 11, 2026. The board adjourned and reconvened as the Contractor's Board of Examiners and Appeals.

The Ocala City Council held a work session on May 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM to discuss three major topics: the Safe Streets for All plan, the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP), and an update on curbside recycling changes. Staff presented detailed proposals and progress reports, and council members provided feedback and direction on next steps. Safe Streets for All - Staff presented the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) planning studies, funded by an 80% federal grant with a 20% city match. The study analyzed crash data from 2020-2024 (with fatal/severe injury data from 2014-2024) to develop a Local Road Safety Plan and a Speed Management/Traffic Calming Plan. - Key highlights: 53 serious injuries and 19 fatalities in 2024; 53 serious injuries in 2025; and 11 serious injuries and 4 fatalities so far in 2026. Vulnerable road users (pedestrians, bicyclists) accounted for 4.7% of total crashes but 40% of KSI (killed or seriously injured) crashes and 63% of fatalities. - A High Injury Network of 12 roadway segments (3.8% of locally maintained roads) accounts for 23.3% of KSI crashes and 25% of fatalities. Emphasis areas: intersections, vulnerable road users, distracted driving, speeding/aggressive driving, and aging road users (65+). - The Speed Management Plan includes a traffic calming policy with a request application process, and identifies 15 priority speed management segments. - The city is preparing a 2026 SS4A implementation grant application for: Southwest 27th Avenue safety improvements, citywide traffic signal back plates, speed feedback signs in school zones, traffic safety campaigns, and a drone pilot by Ocala PD. - Council requested adoption of the planning studies at the May 19, 2026 City Council meeting to maintain grant eligibility and meet federal reporting requirements. Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) - Jeff Sram from Growth Management presented the draft Transportation Improvement Plan, a tool for long- and short-term transportation planning. The TIP includes four sections: capacity projects, operational/intersection improvements, bicycle/pedestrian projects, and public transit projects. - The draft lists 78 unfunded sidewalk projects. No dedicated funding source exists for sidewalks; council discussed creating a dedicated annual sidewalk budget (e.g., $300,000) and using fee-in-lieu options, especially for M1/M2 industrial zones. - Staff shared an updated sidewalk gap map and emphasized coordination with the school board to prioritize safe routes to school and school bus stop locations. - Council members expressed strong support for increased sidewalk investment, better lighting at crossing points, and exploring a “sidewalk bank” where developers pay in lieu of constructing sidewalks on-site. - A correction was noted: project C9 (State Road 40 widening from I-75 to NW 60th Ave) was erroneously shown on the map but has been removed from the long-range plan. Recycling Update - Dwayne Drake, Sanitation Division head, presented the transition to recycling drop-offs, effective July 1, 2026, following the February 3, 2026 adoption of the rate study that eliminated curbside recycling. - Key cost details: the city will pay $125 per ton for recycling disposal (Marion County pays $137.70 per ton); the city will pay Waste Pro $18 per recycling cart to purchase and repurpose carts as second garbage carts. Residents with a third cart will have the extra cart removed. - Eight drop-off locations were announced: Mary Sue Ridge Community Center, Krosky Center/MLK Jr. Recreation Complex, Ocala Regional Sportsplex, Holly Palmer Park, Fire Station 5 (NE 25th Ave & NE 24th St), NE 8th Ave & NE 14th St, Jervey Gantt Park, and SE 31st St & SE 5th Terrace. Scott Springs was considered but not chosen. - Accepted items: cardboard, metal cans, paper, and plastic bottles/jugs. Glass will not be accepted at drop-offs. - Staff will conduct outreach via website, press releases, social media, utility bill inserts, and possibly sticky notes on recycling bins on final collection days. The last curbside recycling collection will be in June; residents can keep their recycling cart as a second garbage cart. - Council questioned route efficiency with additional carts and was assured adjustments would be made as needed. Key Outcomes - Safe Streets for All: The council will consider adopting the Local Road Safety Plan and Speed Management/Traffic Calming Plan at the May 19, 2026 meeting. The implementation grant application will proceed. - Transportation Improvement Plan: Staff will return with a prioritized sidewalk list, a code amendment for fee-in-lieu options for M1/M2 zones, and recommendations for a dedicated sidewalk funding source. Coordination with the school board will be initiated. - Recycling: The drop-off program will launch July 1, 2026. Staff will finalize locations and communications. Council requested enhanced outreach to ensure residents are informed. - No formal votes were taken during the work session; these actions will be presented at a future regular meeting.

The Airport Advisory Board met on May 12, 2026, at 9:00 AM in the City Council Chambers. The board approved consent items including lease assignments and grant extensions, tabled a ground lease for GLJ Aviation due to concerns about an option period, and received the Airport Director's report covering ongoing projects, the recent presidential visit, and fuel/operations statistics. Consent Calendar - Minutes from March 2026: Approved unanimously. - Consent to Assignment – Gabriels to Wing it Florida, LLC: Approved. - Consent to Assignment – London’s to Wing it Florida, LLC: Approved. Principal of Wing it Florida was not identified at the meeting. - Time Extension – FM449858 North Road Grant: Extended to June 1, 2028. - Time Extension – FM453812 TWY-C Construction Grant: Extended to June 1, 2028. - PTGA Airfield Paint Project: Approved. Local share of $14,865. Project will repaint most yellow markings, hold lines, and runway centerlines (runway widening modification to standards still under FAA review). - Amendment 4 – PTGA FM 449858: Approved scope change to allow design and construction of a drainage retention area (DRA) tied to the North Development Road project. Discussion Items - GLJ Ground Lease (Alpha 9 Development Area): The board discussed a proposed 40-year ground lease with a 3% annual escalation for a primary parcel (67,860 sq ft) and an option parcel (134,000 sq ft, $1,000/acre/year). Board member Randy Klein expressed concern that the option period could last the entire lease term, tying the city's hands. The item was tabled pending clarification of the option terms. The developer is GLJ Aviation, associated with "Grab a Leaf" (a yellow and black G4 aircraft). A 120-day due diligence period and additional 120 days for permitting are included. Airport Director's Report - North Development Access Road: Extension to east toward 60th Avenue. - MALSR/RPZ RY36 Grading: In bidding phase; coordinating with FAA to minimize runway closures. - Terminal Apron Rehab: Complete except for punch list; paint delay expected to resolve in next few weeks. - Master Plan: In final review. - Alpha 9 ITN: At award phase. - T-hangar Campus Rehabilitation: In permitting. - A12 Infrastructure: Seeking funding. - Concrete Pads: In permitting. - Presidential Visit Recap: Successful visit conducted safely. - Air Show Planning: Wings Over Ocala still slated for May 2027; promoter visit delayed. - Fuel Operations (April 2026): Avgas – 23,774 gallons (up from March); Jet A – 131,619 gallons (down from March); overall sales increased. - Operations: IFR itinerant operations decreased to 2,042 (from 2,591 in March); VFR itinerant increased to 3,980 (from 3,790); local operations increased to 2,398. Comments by Board Members - Board member noted that meetings were previously held at the airport and expressed a preference for returning to that location for stakeholder convenience. Key Outcomes - All consent items approved unanimously. - GLJ Ground Lease tabled until next meeting pending answers on option period duration. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:21 AM.

The Ocala Planning & Zoning Commission met on May 11, 2026 at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The commission unanimously approved two quasi-judicial items: an abrogation of a street segment for Legacy View Church and a rezoning from O-1 to B-2A for a property at 619 SE 17th Street. A special meeting was scheduled for May 26, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the April 13, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (7-0). - Proof of Publication: Acknowledged that a public meeting notice was posted at City Hall and published in the Ocala Gazette on April 24, 2026. Public Comments - Gregory Biss (adjacent property owner on SW Fort King Street) expressed concern about property boundary encroachment related to the church's abrogation and parking lot, requesting that boundaries be clearly established before approval. Staff clarified that a survey would be conducted during the site plan process. Discussion Items Abrogation - Case ABR 26-0001 (Legacy View Church) - Staff Presentation: Planner II Breah Miller presented the request to abrogate a segment of SW 25th Street (approximately 0.179 acres) in association with the church's off-site parking. The Board of Adjustment had conditionally approved the church and parking lot in 2024; the abrogation is needed to finalize the legal description. Staff found no existing infrastructure or utility easements in the right-of-way and determined the abrogation would not adversely impact adjacent properties. - Board Discussion: A board member asked about boundary clarification. Staff noted the site plan already received conditional approval contingent on this abrogation. - Outcome: Motion to approve passed unanimously (7-0). Rezoning - Case ZON 26-0002 (York Properties) - Staff Presentation: Planner II David Sablan presented the request to rezone 2.04 acres at 619 SE 17th Street from O-1 (Office) to B-2A (Limited Business Commercial). The property houses a pharmacy specialty retail use since 1974. Staff found the rezoning consistent with the low-intensity future land use, compatible with surrounding commercial uses, and no level-of-service issues. - Agent: Sandin Weechins, representing the petitioner, was present and had no additional comments. - Public Comment: None. - Outcome: Motion to approve passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Approved Abrogation (ABR 26-0001): Unanimous approval for Legacy View Church. - Approved Rezoning (ZON 26-0002): Unanimous approval for York Properties. - Next Regular Meeting: June 8, 2026 at 5:30 PM. - Special Meeting: May 26, 2026 (Tuesday) at 5:30 PM, same location, to be advertised. - Board Reminder: Ethics disclosure (Form 1) due July 1, 2026; board members need to access their Ocala government email to file.