Bill Type and Number: Ordinance 2007-61

Sponsor: The Council President at the request of the Mayor:

Date of Introduction: January 9, 2007

Committee(s) of Reference: F; ECID

Date of Analysis: January 12, 2007

Type of Action: Agreement Authorization; Loan & Grant Authorization; Appropriation

Bill Summary: This ordinance authorizes the execution of a Redevelopment Agreement between the City of Jacksonville and Driggers Auto Body Co. (“developer”) Inc., for the expansion of the facility located at 3526 N. Pearl Street, where the developer operates its auto paint and body shop. The bill authorizes (1) a Small Business Development Initiative Loan totaling $114,100 and (2) a Small Business Development Initiative Grant totaling $48,900. The bill appropriates $163,000 from the Northwest Jacksonville Economic Development Trust Fund to fund on-site building improvements to be made by the developer. The project site is in Council District 7.

NOTE: A scrivener’s error needs to be corrected. “Auto” is omitted in the bill’s title in noting the developer’s name.

Background Information: Established in 1975, Driggers Auto Body Co. Inc. repairs and paints automotive bodies and interiors damaged in automobile accidents and vehicle refurbishing. Driggers currently employs 4 full-time persons at an average salary of $32,760. Financial assistance acquired through this Redevelopment Agreement will enable the business to expand the office portion of the building creating additional office space for insurance adjustors to utilize for estimate repair claims. 5 additional jobs will be created within 36 months of completion. The project is located within Jacksonville’s Enterprise/Empowerment Zone area and is a designated Brownsfield Area.

Policy Impact: Housing & Neighborhoods Department/Northwest Jacksonville Economic Development Trust Fund/Economic Development

Fiscal Impact: The bill appropriates $163,000 in a combination of a loan and grant.

Analyst: Jackson