Announcements
The Alachua County Communications Office shared a video of the ribbon cutting for the UF Health Urgent Care Center – Eastside grand opening.
See the video.
Legacy Project
The Alachua County Commission moved forward with a proposed scope for its East Gainesville Legacy Project.
The commission authorized the Housing and Strategic Development Division to work with procurement to issue a request for proposal (RFP) for the development of single-family market-rate homes on the county-owned 13-acre site, along the corner of Southeast 15th Street and Southeast 8th Avenue.
The county may offer the land to a developer to offset some added costs and make the project more affordable and attainable for future homeowners.
The vote comes after community public meetings and additional feedback from nearby residents, who overwhelmingly shared they wanted to see single-family houses on the site.
To stay informed on the next steps in the East Gainesville Legacy Project, text “Legacy” to 888-777.
Watch the discussion.
Small farmer grant awards
The commission awarded its second round of small farmer grants, which promotes economic resilience within the local food systems and equity for marginalized communities. The grants prioritize farmers making less than $75,000 per year.
The program, updated in 2023, saw a 51% application growth in year two and gives 28 small farmers up to $5,000 each ($124,460 collectively).
The funds help with costs associated with capital infrastructure and equipment, such as tractors, fencing, irrigation, and building improvements, which will enhance productivity capability and the financial expansion of their farm.
The commission also voted to extend the program for another year by committing $100,000 toward the initiative.
Watch the discussion.
CAPP award funding
The commission awarded 33 organizations a combined $1.5 million in funding through its Community Agency Partnership Program (CAPP). The total in funding represents a $150,000 increase in CAPP funding.
CAPP uses a competitive funding process for programs offered by local non-profit organizations that reduce the impact of poverty on Alachua County residents.
The maximum potential award was also set at $150,000 for each receiving organization.
Watch the discussion.
Jail providers
Two providers at the Alachua County Jail – WellPath (medical services) and Trinity Services Group (food services) – presented at the meeting.
The commission voted to accept the reports and asked both organizations to report back in 90 days. WellPath will provide an update on how it is handling inmate patient increases and medical release forms, while Trinity Services Group will bring back its goals for food purchasing.
Watch the presentation.
Town of Tioga development
The commission approved a preliminary development plan and resolution for a southern portion of the Town of Tioga.
The development site, called Tioga Gardens, is located at 1303 SW 143rd St. The site is approximately 222 acres. It is expected to include 500 single-family units and will be built in two phases.
The project includes 35,000 square feet of non-residential space. About 22% of the proposed development’s tree canopy will be preserved, an increase from the 5% required for traditional neighborhood developments. The development also includes roundabouts and multi-use paths to improve traffic and mobility around the area.
Watch the discussion.
Recognitions
County employees were recognized for their length of service anniversaries and recent retirements that fell between April to June 2024.
See the presentation.
See the full Aug. 27 afternoon agenda and video.
See the full Aug. 27 evening agenda video.
