Development - Affordable Housing - NW 7th Avenue Subdivision - Section 2

ITN# GRM/260683 Development - Affordable Housing - NW 7th Avenue Subdivision - Section 2 Scope of Work: 1.1. BACKGROUND The City of Ocala ("City"), through this Invitation to Negotiate ("ITN") GRM/260683, seeks proposals from interested and qualified developers, builders, partnerships and/or agencies interested in constructing a residential development on the subject parcels to include a mix of single-family detached residential homes and an open space area. The City's intent is to use the property for the creation of Affordable Housing while maintaining quality construction and site design. The ITN will be awarded to a single developer, who will be solely responsible for completing the entire project. The recent infusion of public and private investment, an improving economy, and the implementation of several innovative renovation grants has spurred additional private interest and investment in redevelopment aimed at providing new opportunities for Ocala. In addition to greatly enhancing the quality of life for its residents, these progressive and highly competitive steps have had a profound effect on making Ocala a "destination" location. The city now offers robust, regular entertainment, numerous cultural, retail and restaurant offerings that now consistently attract discretionary spending draw from a surrounding 75-mile radius. Since 1998, the City has made significant investments in the development of a series of master and sub-area plans for its Community Redevelopment Areas (CRA's), parks systems and cultural arts. To implement those plans, the City has purposely developed several economic development tools and policies to accelerate the growth and sustainability of the City. The catalytic site proposed for redevelopment consists of multiple parcels (the "Property") with a total area of approximately 2.01 acres as evidenced in the map provided in EXHIBIT A.1. The targeted area of development for the intent of this ITN is 0.297 acres within the aforementioned site, hereby known as Section 2 as is outlined in the map provided in EXHIBIT A.3. This project site is in the West Ocala Community Redevelopment Area (CRA), as well as an Opportunity Zone, and Urban Job Tax Credit area. The goals for this project are ambitious and the City recognizes the potential investments it and a capable developer will need to make for this vision to become a reality. The City intends to spur the redevelopment of a City-owned property, which will contribute to, and further accelerate, the transformational change in this area as well as the broader community. With the property located in an area identified for targeted redevelopment, the various tools afforded by this designation will be used, as justified; to assist proposers and the City achieve the desired goals. Per the West Ocala Vision and Community Plan, hereto attached as EXHIBIT B, infill development should include a variety of attached and detached housing types that connect homes to employment opportunities. The plan also emphasizes the creation of safe and accessible public parks, squares, and green spaces throughout the community, serving as focal points for neighborhood and community activities and events. Additionally, it advocates for establishing a connected network of parks, sidewalks, and trails. Proposers should carefully consider how the development will contribute to a vibrant neighborhood and a pedestrian oriented public realm. Each building should be aesthetically attractive and provide an accessible, safe environment. To better understand the City's vision for this significant area in our community, respondents are encouraged to review the exhibits that are provided with this solicitation including EXHIBIT C - West Ocala Community Redevelopment Plan and EXHIBIT B - West Ocala Vision and Community Plan which was officially adopted into the City of Ocala Comprehensive Plan (2012). The site is located within Neighborhood Future Land Use designation and with parcels zoned R-2: Two- Family Residential (R-2). Respondents should address issues such as land use, density, walkability, connectivity and other elements common in New Urbanism environments in ways that are compatible with the City's zoning and future land use designation. The lots being presented for development by way of plat are to be developed for Single Family Residential Detached homes. In 2024, Urban 3 completed a study titled Economics of Community Design, examining the land value economics, property and retail tax analysis, and community design of Ocala. The study provided a comprehensive analysis of opportunities for the city and considerations for future growth and fiscal policy. The City anticipates an increase in value once the vacant Property is developed and requires development concepts that achieve its highest and best use. In order to be eligible for consideration, prospective developers, builders, partnerships and/or agencies must meet the minimum qualifications set forth in this ITN and demonstrate proven experience, financial resources, and professional expertise to develop, market, and rent and/or sell quality, residential units. The City reserves the right to request additional information or require execution of additional documentation as may be reasonably necessary to determine the financing of construction of the developed units. The City's Selection Committee shall review all proposals, conduct interviews, and recommend one or more proposals to City Council based on the evaluation criteria set forth herein. City Council may accept any proposal that it deems to serve the public interest and reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. The transfer of title to the Property shall not occur until all of the terms of the sale are complete. Language shall be included in the deed document to allow the title to revert to the City in the event that construction is not initiated within six (6) months of closing and any deposit or other funds paid by developer shall be forfeited to the City. For the purpose of this solicitation, construction is deemed to have commenced when site and building permits have been issued and the Proposer has broken ground on the property. Construction must be completed and a certificate of occupancy (CO) issued for all units no later than 18 months from the date of closing. City staff shall monitor the project and schedule progress meetings to ensure construction is complete in accordance with the Development Agreement. Proposers are encouraged to communicate any questions regarding this ITN by the deadline set forth for questions herein. All questions should be sent in writing via e-mail to the Buyer Contact identified. Questions and answers will be communicated to all proposers by issuing an addendum posted to www.bidocala.com.