Title
Request to Declare Surplus Property at 817 NE 16th Street (B)
Explanation
The City has been acquiring lots in the Duval Community for redevelopment purposes using Community Development Block Grant Funds. The City acquired two non-contiguous lots in January 2005 by warranty deed for this purpose. One of the lots, Tax Parcel 10678-010-000 located at 817 Northeast 16th Street (Lot 10), severs the contiguousness of property owned by E. J. Hicks. E. J. Hick's property, Tax Parcel 10678-007-000 located at 815 Northeast 16th Terrace (Lot 7), severs the contiguousness of property owned by the City of Gainesville. For mutual consideration and benefit, City staff recommends, and Mr. E. J. Hicks wishes, to exchange Lot 10 for Lot 7. This trade, which is consistent with CDBG requirements, will give the City four contiguous lots and will give Mr. Hicks three contiguous lots. This will better suit the City's purpose for building in-fill housing. Both lots are the same size, in the same block, and vacant with an estimated market value of $1,200 or less. According to city procedures, properties with a value of less than $10,000 do not require an appraisal, and the City-owned lot must be declared as surplus by the City Commission in order to exchange properties with Mr. Hicks.
Fiscal Note
Costs for preparation of documents, minimal documentary stamps and recording fees will be paid from the Public Works Operating Fund.
Recommendation
The City Commission: 1) approve the request to declare surplus Tax Parcel 10678-010-000; 2) approve the exchange of City-owned Lot 10 for E. J. Hicks' Lot 7, all in Booker T. Washington Heights subdivision; 3) authorize the Interim City Manager to enter into an agreement authorizing the property exchange, subject to form and legality by the City Attorney; and 4) authorize the Mayor to execute a Special Warranty Deed to convey Lot 10 to E. J. Hicks in exchange for a Warranty Deed from E. J. Hicks for Lot 7.