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Minutes 03-20-25 Minutes of the Community Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting Held on Tuesday, March 20, 2025, at 6:30 PM City Hall Chambers, 100 E. Ocean Avenue and Online Present: Chair Rebecca Shelton Tim Tack, Acting Executive Director Vice Chair Woodrow Hay Kathryn Rossmell, Board Counsel Board Member Aimee Kelley Tammy Stanzione, Deputy City Clerk Board Member Thomas Turkin (virtual) Board Member Angela Cruz 1. Call to Order Chair Penserga called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. 2. Invocation The Invocation was given by Board Member Kelley. 3. Pledge of Allegiance Board Member Cruz led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. 4. Roll Call Ms. Tammy Stanzione, Deputy City Clerk, called the roll. A quorum was present. 5. Agenda Approval A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda B. Adoption of Agenda Board Member Turkin requested to hear postpone the item regarding Hurricane Alley. Ms. Rossmell recommended tabling when the item is called. Board Member Turkin agreed. Ms. Rossmell requested a change name for one of the grant applications. She noted that AFJ Dental LLC should be changed to Boynton Beach Dentistry for purposes of the packet and adoption. Board Member Kelly requested a brief update on the Heart of Boynton shops. Acting Executive Director confirmed an update would be given under item 16A. Board Member Cruz asked to add to a discussion to Future Agenda about sunsettting the CRA and impact on Andrews House and Magnuson. Vice Chair Hay arrived at approximately 6:06 P.M. Motion: Board Member Cruz moved to approve the Agenda as amended. Board Member Kelley Minutes of the Community Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting Held on Tuesday, March 20, 2025, at 6:30 PM City Hall Chambers, 100 E. Ocean Avenue and Online Present: Chair Rebecca Shelton Tim Tack, Acting Executive Director Vice Chair Woodrow Hay Katherine Rossmell, Board Counsel Board Member Aimee Kelley Tammy Stanzione, Deputy City Clerk Board Member Thomas Turkin (virtual) Board Member Angela Cruz 1. Call to Order Chair Penserga called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. 2. Invocation The Invocation was given by Board Member Kelley. 3. Pledge of Allegiance Board Member Cruz led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. 4. Roll Call Ms. Tammy Stanzione, Deputy City Clerk, called the roll. A quorum was present. 5. Agenda Approval A. Additions, Deletions, Corrections to the Agenda B. Adoption of Agenda Board Member Turkin requested to hear postpone the item regarding Hurricane Alley. Ms. Rossmell recommended tabling when the item is called. Board Member Turkin agreed. Ms. Rossmell requested a change name for one of the grant applications. She noted that AFJ Dental LLC should be changed to Boynton Beach Dentistry for purposes of the packet and adoption. Board Member Kelly requested a brief update on the Heart of Boynton shops. Acting Executive Director confirmed an update would be given under item 16A. Board Member Cruz asked to add to a discussion to Future Agenda about sunsettting the CRA and impact on Andrews House and Magnuson. Vice Chair Hay arrived at approximately 6:06 P.M. Motion: Board Member Cruz moved to approve the Agenda as amended. Board Member Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 6. Legal A. House Bill 991 Ms. Rossmell stated that House Bill 991, referred to as the "death knell for CRAs," would significantly impact CRA operations if passed. She explained that while some provisions—such as sunsetting and restrictions on creating new CRAs—would not apply to Boynton Beach, the bill would prohibit new projects and bonds after October 1 . She asked for direction, offering options to monitor the bill, send letters to legislators, or engage a lobbyist through her firm at a discounted rate. She noted that action would need to be taken tonight, as the legislative session is already in its third week. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Susan Oyer stated that the CRA should actively engage the legal firm's lobbying team to address House Bill 991. She acknowledged she was not the biggest supporter of CRAs but did not want to see them dismantled without time to prepare. She urged the board to act in the city's long-term interest and to collaborate with the League of Cities, other local governments, and any cities with CRAs to push back against the legislation. She criticized the bill as political overreach and emphasized the importance of standing up collectively. She supported moving forward with the lobbying effort, especially given the discounted rate. Cindy Falco DiCorrado stated that she did not support CRAs due to past misuse of eminent domain, which she believed resulted in people unfairly losing their properties. She supported completing current projects, such as the Andrews House, and ensuring funding was available for those efforts. She encouraged serious review and community agreement before moving forward but opposed starting new projects. She expressed support for limited lobbying only to allow time to finish existing initiatives, while reiterating her belief that the CRA should eventually come to an end. Flynn Holland stated that eliminating the CRA and its funding would be devastating to the community. She suggested identifying the appropriate representatives and sharing their information on social media to encourage public involvement through a letter-writing campaign. She emphasized that broader community participation would strengthen efforts to oppose the legislation. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Board Member Kelley stated that the city's lobbyist was already actively working on House Bill 991. She supported adding a second lobbyist if the board agreed, noting it could help amplify efforts. She said the bill was moving along party lines, with Representatives Costello and Caruso voting against it. She emphasized the importance of residents reaching out to legislators to express the CRA's value and welcomed input from other board members. Board Member Cruz and Vice Chair Hay agreed with Board Member Kelley. Board Member Hay asked what projects it would impact beginning in October. Board Member Turkin inquired about the estimated cost for additional lobbying. Ms. Rossmell said it would be a set fee of $30K, with payments spread out over three months if needed. CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 Board Member Turkin stated that he understood the desire to fight the bill but expressed concern about spending $30,000 on lobbying if the outcome in Tallahassee was already likely. He noted that once a bill gains momentum and support in committee, it becomes difficult to stop. Vice Chair Hay stated that the $30,000 would be well spent given the potential long-term impact on the city. He acknowledged having similar doubts in the past but believed this situation warranted the investment based on what was currently at stake. Board Member Turkin emphasized he cannot support the money spent. Board Member Cruz stated that although she had not realized the cost, she supports the effort. She noted the city spends more on lobbying and emphasized the importance of defending local control. She acknowledged the risk but believed both lobbying and grassroots action were worth pursuing. Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to direct Legal Counsel to engage in the legislative process and allow Mr. Tack to execute the contract. Board Member Cruz seconded the motion. Chair Shelton asked about collaborating with the current city lobbyist. Ms. Rossmell confirmed that she could direct their lobbying team to begin outreach. She noted that the team was aware of similar efforts in Pompano Beach and Delray Beach and planned to coordinate a unified approach. The motion passed 4-1 with Board Member Turkin dissenting. 7. Informational Items and Disclosures by Board Members and CRA Staff: A. Disclosure of Conflicts, Contacts, and Relationships for Items Presented to the CRA Board on Agenda Board Member Cruz, Board Member Kelley, and Chair Shelton had nothing to disclose. Vice Chair Hay said First Friday was interesting and thanked staff. 8. Information Only A. Semi-Annual Progress Report for the Development Agreement with Wells Landing Apartments, LLC d/b/a Heart of Boynton Shops (September 2024 - February 2025) Acting Executive Director Tack stated that the MLK project includes 124 affordable multifamily rental units, which are fully leased and operating. He noted progress on the eight planned commercial spaces and expressed excitement about the development. He explained that the items before the board were in accordance with the purchase and development and TIF agreements. The developer met all obligations and submitted complete annual and semiannual reports, which staff had reviewed. He invited questions and noted that Bonnie Nicklien would provide an update on the commercial components as part of the projects in progress. CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 Bonnie Nicklien, Grants and Projects Manager, reported that six of the eight commercial units passed underground inspections, with concrete pours expected within one to two weeks. A tentative lease was in place for the remaining two units, planned for a primary urgent care. She noted that JB Dental and the Law Office of Diane Andre were on the consent agenda for grants and expressed excitement about their upcoming buildouts. Vice Chair Hay asked whether Units 104 and 107 would be using a different contractor and whether standards were being met. Acting Executive Director Tack confirmed that the contractor was licensed and insured in Florida, and while there was no direct contractual relationship with the CRA, funding would follow an established administrative procedure. He explained that the tenants chose the contractor based on cost and timing, seeking a better deal and quicker completion. Board Member Cruz asked if local hiring was required for grant recipients. Ms. Nicklien said that there was a preference for Palm Beach County contractors but not limited to Boynton Beach. Board Member Cruz suggested exploring ways to prioritize local hiring and proposed a future discussion on the topic. Chair Shelton noted a representative for the development was available online for questions. Vice Chair Hay asked about the TIF agreement. Mr. Tack stated that the developer has a TIF agreement and will be eligible for reimbursement once they are on the tax roll and submit a request per the agreement. He noted it would follow the typical payment process, similar to other TIF items, but confirmed they were not at that stage yet. Ms. Rossmell added that the developer is not eligible to receive TIF funds until the CRA receives the tax revenue, ensuring there is no risk of owing money before funds are collected. B. Annual Progress Report for the TIRFA Agreement with Wells Landing Apartments, LLC d/b/a Heart of Boynton Village Apartments and Shops 9. Announcements and Awards A. Boynton Beach Spring Market Announcement Mercedes Coppin, Business Development and Promotions Manager, announced the Boynton Beach Spring Market and shared a promo video. B. Announcement of Government Finance Professionals Week Jobara Jenkins, Accounting and Finance Manager, announced the Government Finance Professionals Week to be held March 17-21, 2025. 10. Public Comments Chair Shelton opened public comment. CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 Susan Oyer urged the CRA to move quickly on acquiring and relocating the Andrews House next to the Magnuson House, suggesting it could become an economic driver and recommending securing adjacent land for future historic homes. She criticized recent project designs as unattractive and praised Centennial for a nearby development that followed good design principles. She also raised concerns about the lack of diversity in a recent promotional video and suggested better representation of the community. Cindy Falco DiCorrado noted that she has seen diverse attendance at events and did not believe there was bias in the promotional video. She expressed frustration that past community charrettes for downtown planning were ignored and said recent development lacked the charm and character originally envisioned. She criticized high-density buildings for blocking natural light and breeze, comparing the result to overbuilt cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale. She urged the city and CRA to involve residents in planning decisions through workshops or advisory groups, emphasizing that the community should have a voice in shaping its future. Allison Berger, founder of Blue Mountain Coffee House, expressed interest in purchasing the Oscar Magnuson House to open a community-focused café. She stated that her award-winning business would serve Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee and Caribbean chocolate, and that she was committed to preserving the home's historic charm. She stated that the project would cost over $500,000 and is fully funded. Mike Fitzpatrick supported relocating the Andrews House to the Magnuson property and thanked Board Member Cruz for her comments. He stated that a coffee shop was a top use identified in the community charrette and outlined five reasons the CRA should lead the project: city staff may deprioritize it; the CRA has experience with similar projects; the site is CRA property; $300,000 is budgeted for historic preservation; and combining the two houses could create a strong destination. He referenced a detailed email sent earlier in the day. Alexander Forbes, owner of Boynton Beach Dentistry, thanked the board for considering his funding request. He shared that this was his first business and expressed appreciation for the city's support of local businesses. He noted that, while not yet approved, the potential assistance provided both financial and emotional reassurance as he prepared to open with support from family and a professional team. Cindy [no last name provided] a 32-year resident, opposed further high-rise development and urged the city to focus on fixing existing issues like crime, streets, and sidewalks. She criticized the $35 million Town Square incentive and suggested investing in police housing in high-crime areas instead. She said the vote would show who supports the community versus developers. Nikki King stated she was speaking on behalf of Deputy Vincent Wilder and two legislative correspondents, Jack Hitchcock and Peter Marigi, from Senator Rick Scott's office. She reported that her three daughters have been missing for seven years, last seen in West Palm Beach at ages six, eight, and three months. She requested that officials utilize the NCIC database to assist in locating them and called on the board to mandate action through judicial and legislative channels to help secure their return. Barbara Ready expressed concern about Time Equities seeking $35 million in TIF funding after previously stating they would not need it. She noted that payments would extend to 2078, far beyond the CRA's sunset, and questioned the long-term budget impact. Regarding the CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 Magnuson House, she was surprised to learn the board voted in 2022 to remove its historic designation and questioned whether the required ordinance was ever passed. She also raised concerns about variances and building heights along Ocean Avenue, stating that three-story buildings would create a "concrete canyon" and block ocean breezes, echoing earlier public comments. Flynn Holland, representing the Andrews House group, expressed frustration over stalled progress despite community involvement and strong interest from potential tenants. She urged the CRA to allow the group to move forward and seek local business support. She also raised concerns about the Town Square development, stating it had strayed from its original vision and asked the board to prioritize community involvement in exchange for the requested TIF funding. No virtual comment. Chair Shelton closed public comment. 11. Consent Agenda A. CRA Financial Report Period Ending February 28, 2025 B. Approval of the Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the Amount of $30,750 to AJF Dental LLC d/b/a Forbes Dental located at 1315 N. Federal Highway, Suite 1 C. Approval of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount of $21,000 to AJF Dental LLC d/b/a Forbes Dental located at 1315 N. Federal Highway, Suite 1 D. Approval of the Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the Amount of $26,900 to Diane Andre Mediation LLC d/b/a Law and Mediation Office of Diane Andre Esq. located in the Heart of Boynton Shops at 137 NE 10th Avenue, Unit 106 E. Approval of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount of $11 ,550 to Diane Andre Mediation LLC d/b/a Law and Mediation Office of Diane Andre Esq. located in Heart of Boynton Shops at 137 NE 10th Avenue, Unit 106 F. Approval of the Commercial Property Improvement Grant Program in the Amount of $28,125 to JB Dental Care LLC located in Heart of Boynton Shops at 137 NE 10th Avenue, Unit 103 G. Approval of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount of $11,307.48 to JB Dental Care LLC located in Heart of Boynton Shops at 137 NE 10th Avenue, Unit 103 H. Approval of the Commercial Rent Reimbursement Grant Program in the Amount of $21,000 to The M Salon & Spa LLC d/b/a Nails & Co. located in 500 Ocean at 510 E. Ocean Avenue, Unit 104 I. Approval of Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Budget Amendment for Unreserved Fund Balance J. Approval of 500 Ocean Performance Audit for Year Ending December 31, 2024, for Compliance with the Direct Incentive Funding Agreement K. Approval of the Second Addendum to the Purchase and Sale Agreement for 225 NE 9th Avenue for an Extension of Time CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 Motion: Vice Chair Hay moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Board Member Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. 12. Pulled Consent Agenda Items There were none. 13. CRA Advisory Board A. Pending Assignments - New Assignments from the CRA Board Assigned at the February 13, 2024 CRA Monthly Board Meeting B. Reports on Pending Assignments Acting Executive Director Tack stated that the CRA Advisory Board reviewed two properties for potential acquisition at their March 6 meeting. The first, located at 0 NW 10th Avenue, was under contract but may be reconsidered if it becomes available. The second, at 400 NE Second Street, just north of DJ's and Boynton Beach Boulevard, was recommended for land banking. With board direction, staff will investigate its availability and proceed accordingly. Vice Chair Hay asked about the asking price for the property at 400 NE Second Street. Acting Executive Director Tack replied that it is listed at $725,000 and is currently a quadplex, likely used for Section 8 housing. He noted that while the CRA does not own surrounding parcels, its location next to vacant land could offer future redevelopment potential or land leverage. Vice Chair Hay stated that the CRA should pursue property acquisitions when opportunities arise within its guidelines. Acting Executive Director Tack confirmed appraisal had not been done and said he was seeking board direction to move forward. Vice Chair Hay supported pursuing the property and bringing it back for further consideration. Board Member Kelley noted that the property is being marketed as a rental income property and likely priced accordingly, with the intent to retain current residents. She expressed hesitation about displacing tenants, especially given the current rental market, and stated she was not inclined to pursue the purchase unless more information justified it. Board Member Cruz agreed with Board Member Kelley. Ms. Rossmell asked for clarification on direction. There was consensus for staff to gather more information and bring it back to the board for further consideration. 14. Old Business A. Discussion and Consideration of the Preliminary Design for the MLK Entry Feature Park on the CRA-Owned Property Located at 1101 N. Federal Highway — REVISED 03/18/2025 CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 Bonnie Nicklien, Grants and Project Manager, reported that over 540 public survey responses were received and following board direction in February, the team advanced the final design based on version one, "I Dream." Updates included dog waste stations, low- maintenance landscaping, decorative signage, power for holiday lighting, larger native shade trees, and sidewalk relocation to allow more green space. A paver extension to the north was also removed. She stated that if the board agreed, the next step would be to begin construction documents, with future updates brought back to the board. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Cindy Falco DiCorrado asked if bicycle paths would be incorporated. No virtual comment. Chair Shelton closed public comment. B. Discussion and Consideration of Lease Amendment between Boynton Beach CRA and Cafe Barista, Inc. d/b/a Hurricane Alley Board Member Kelley noted Board Member Turkin's request to table the item. Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to table the item. Board Member Cruz seconded the motion. Discussion ensued about not increasing the rent. Acting Executive Director Tack noted that the lease renewal expired on March 1, but the tenant submitted the request beforehand. He stated that while enforcement is at the board's discretion, the tenant made a good-faith effort to renew on time and asked the board to take that into consideration. Board Member Kelley stated that due to conflicting emails from the tenant—some expressing a desire to be present and others requesting different terms—she was uncomfortable moving forward without the tenant present. She emphasized that while she would not support a rent increase, the confusion led her to stand by her motion to table the item, noting that the tenant had made multiple requests, including a rent pause during construction. The motion passed unanimously. Board Member Turkin was not present for the vote. C. Continued Discussion and Consideration of Tax Increment Financing Request from Time Equities Inc. for Phase I and Phase II of the Town Square Project located at 120 SE 1st Avenue and 100 E. Boynton Beach Boulevard - REVISED 03/18/2025 Acting Executive Director Tack stated that the Town Square project, led by Time Equities Inc. (TEI), is part of an existing development agreement with the city. The approved project includes 898 market-rate rental units, 23,500 square feet of retail space, and over 1,000 parking spaces, including 473 public spaces. The development will occur in two phases, with CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 the south parcel first. TEI will also contribute $2,250,000 to the city's workforce housing fund. Following the board's February direction, CRA staff and legal worked with TEI to draft a proposed term sheet, now presented for board review and direction. Ms. Rossmell explained that the proposed TIF agreement with Time Equities Inc. requests 95% of the tax increment revenue, up to $35.2 million, split between two phases. In return, the developer would commit to starting construction on phase one in 2026 and phase two in 2032, with each phase required to be completed within six years or the TIF would be void. The agreement includes local hiring efforts, annual compliance reports, and a groundbreaking ceremony. To address the two-phase structure, she proposed treating each phase as a separate agreement and reevaluating the need for TIF before phase two begins. The developer would cover the cost of a third-party financial review, and if the funding gap narrows, the phase two award could be reduced. Ms. Bonnie Miskel, on behalf of the applicant, introduced herself and Rob Singer, Time Equities, Inc. She began the presentation and reviewed the following: Town Square Background; Master Plan; Development Costs; Location Images and Renderings. Mr. Singer stated that Time Equities has worked closely with city staff and architects over several years to bring the Town Square project forward, investing significantly because they believe in Boynton Beach. He explained that market conditions—rising interest rates, construction costs, and insurance—have created a funding gap, which was confirmed by both the developer's and CRA's consultants. The requested TIF is not a giveaway, but a rebate of taxes generated by the completed project, making it financially viable. He emphasized that phase one must be completed before phase two begins, and that safeguards are in place, including a CRA-controlled review of the funding gap before phase two moves forward. He highlighted the broader economic benefits, including workforce housing contributions and public infrastructure improvements, and asked the board to recognize the project's long-term value. Ms. Miskel continued the presentation and reviewed the Town Square "Fiscal Gap" – Two Phases. Ms. Rossmell stated that if the CRA expires, the TIF obligation would also end. She explained that when a special district dissolves, its assets and liabilities typically transfer to the City of Boynton Beach, but part of the proposed guardrails includes removing the TIF obligation in that case. Board Member Cruz asked about the potential end date of the TIF if the full amount were approved. Ms. Rossmell stated that it depends on when construction begins. If phase two starts in 2032, the TIF could extend to around 2042. She noted that the CRA sunsets in 2044, which would be the latest possible end date. She explained that the TIF starts after construction is completed, the property is added to the tax roll, and the CRA begins receiving funds. Board Member Cruz noted that while the developer is contributing $4.5 million to the workforce housing fund, the $35 million TIF request seems to offset that benefit. Mr. Singer responded that the TIF functions as a rebate of taxes already paid by the developer, not money taken from the city or CRA. He emphasized that the city receives benefits like parking, CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 fees, and economic development during the rebate period, and retains full revenue from public parking spaces included in the project. Board Member Cruz asked if CRA agreements would transfer to the city if the CRA is dismantled. Ms. Rossmell clarified the bill would not end the CRA but would stop new projects. She said this agreement would count as existing if approved and remain valid. Staff may bring resolutions to secure planned projects, and the developer has the option to terminate the agreement if the CRA does not proceed. Discussion continued about CRA sunsetting, House Bill 991, and TIF. Board Member Cruz supported building Town Square but expressed concern about the TIF amount, noting the city's immediate obligations, including bond payments, growing staff needs, and pension costs as the city expands. Mr. Singer stated that the project will generate about $14 million in upfront fees, including permit, impact, and workforce housing fees, along with full parking revenue, which is uncommon. He emphasized that the TIF has a limited term, covers no upfront costs for the city, and is similar to other successful agreements in Boynton Beach. Vice Chair Hay expressed concern that the developer originally seemed ready to build without assistance. Mr. Singer clarified they always said the project depended on market conditions and financial viability. He stated the TIF request addresses a funding gap caused by shifting economic conditions. Discussion ensued about project phases and TIF. Ms. Rossmell clarified that the developer plans to finance the project in two phases, and the CRA's financing would align with that structure. Board Member Kelley acknowledged the community input and scale of the $500 million project, noting it's understandable for residents to feel hesitant. She supported the project but expressed concern that the developer could collect TIF on phase one even if phase two is never built. She appreciated the legal safeguards but said past experiences make it hard to fully trust the outcome. Mr. Singer stated that phase one must be completed for phase two to happen, and lenders require the TIF to finance it. He said the TIF is an incentive tied to successful delivery and that delaying phase one over fears about phase two would risk the entire project. He emphasized their commitment, noting they paid market value and have already invested millions. Ms. Miskel reminded the board that if the proposed bill passes, this may be the last TIF application they see unless submitted before July 1. She emphasized the value of using both city and county funds, noting how rare county contributions to Boynton Beach are. Ms. Rossmell stated that staff was seeking direction on treating the financing of phase one and phase two separately, along with any other feedback on the proposed terms. If the board agrees, staff will bring back the agreement or agreements at the next meeting for formal CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 consideration, public comment, and a vote. She emphasized that this is not the final review but a step to confirm the board's input before moving forward. Board Member Cruz suggested that, rather than contributing $4.5 million to the workforce housing fund, the developer consider providing on-site workforce housing units in exchange for the TIF, which would make the deal more palatable given the size of the request. Mr. Singer responded that the $35 million TIF is proportionate to the project's scale-900 units— and consistent with past TIFs. He explained that the original direction from the city favored cash contributions for flexibility, but if the board now prefers on-site units, they are open to discussing that option. Chair Shelton requested to wrap up the discussion until the next meeting. Ms. Rossmell asked the board for direction on whether the TIF for phase one and phase two should be treated separately. She explained that staff needs clarity to finalize the agreement—either as two separate agreements or one agreement that clearly separates the phases. She noted that if phase one is completed and phase two is not, the TIF for phase one would still stand. Ms. Miskel asked if staff should prepare both a consolidated agreement and two separate agreements for phases one and two ahead of the April 8 meeting. Chair Shelton agreed that bringing both options would be a good idea to give the board flexibility in making a final decision. There was no other direction provided. 15. New Business A. Discussion and Consideration of the Purchase of 135 NE 3rd Avenue Theresa Utterback, Development Services Manager, provided an overview of a property outlined in blue on the map, located near the new Cottage District. She noted the CRA owns an adjacent parcel and that the subject property, listed at $375,000, recently appraised at $500,000. The lot is 0.33 acres, averaging $26 per square foot. She added that all comparable properties in the appraisal were CRA purchases and confirmed the price aligns with previous acquisitions. Board Member Kelley stated that while she supports acquiring the property, she wants staff to negotiate closer to the seller's earlier asking price, before the appraisal. She expressed concern that the sellers may be taking advantage of the appraisal and emphasized the importance of being fiscally responsible with taxpayer dollars. B. Discussion and Consideration of an Auditor Selection Committee for an RFP for Auditing Services Vicki Hill, CRA Finance Director, introduced Attorney Janice Rustin to present the item. Ms. Rustin explained that due to a 2019 Florida law change, the board must establish a three-member audit selection committee, including at least one board member, for procuring financial auditing services. Staff cannot serve on the committee. She requested CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 the board take action to establish the committee before proceeding. Vice Chair Hay asked why only one board member should serve on the audit selection committee instead of all five. Ms. Rustin agreed and noted that many boards choose to have the entire board serve as the committee, as it's more efficient and allows the board to wear different hats in different roles. She recommended that approach based on her experience. Motion: Board Member Cruz moved to appoint the full CRA Board as the Auditor Selection Committee. Board Member Kelley seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Ms. Rustin, speaking to the board as the audit selection committee, asked for approval of the proposed evaluation factors. She noted that price can't be the dominant factor and will count for 30 points, evaluated separately using a formula. She invited questions before moving to a motion. Motion: Vice Chair Hay moved to approve the evaluation criteria as presented. Board Member Cruz seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Ms. Rustin stated that the final item to decide was the procurement schedule. She noted that staff plans to publish the RFP by March 21, with proposals due by April 25. The audit selection would take place at the May board meeting, and she will assist staff with materials to guide the process. Motion: Board Member Kelley moved to approve the RFP for Financial Auditing Services and the RFP schedule. Vice Chair Hay seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Chair Shelton opened public comment. No one came forth to speak. Chair Shelton closed public comment. C. Discussion and Consideration of the CRA Owned Property Located at 211 E. Ocean Avenue Acting Executive Director Tack updated the board on 211 East Ocean Avenue, noting that a limited assessment identified urgent repairs, which staff will begin addressing. A more in- depth structural analysis will be needed to determine long-term use, possibly requiring an RFP. He said staff will keep the board informed throughout the process. Board Member Kelley said she was glad to see the photos and progress on repairs at the Magnuson House. She noted an upcoming meeting with staff and preservation advocates about the Andrews House and emphasized being mindful of potential site changes if both houses are placed on the same lot. She stressed the importance of aligning the repair plan with the broader vision before moving too far ahead, to avoid needing to shift direction later. CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 She thanked staff for the update and reiterated the urgency of restoring the building to safe, usable condition. Chair Shelton opened public comment. Mike Fitzpatrick thanked the board and offered several suggestions for the Magnuson House. He supported raising the structure, as was done with the Andrews House, to allow easier access to utilities and improve storm resilience. He recommended installing a 5V galvanized metal roof before any move, noting its 50-year lifespan and compatibility with historic style. He also suggested considering solar panels for future sustainability. Lastly, he questioned the historical significance of the house's rear section, proposing it be removed and rebuilt if it is not original and proves costly to restore. Flynn Holland expressed excitement about progress on the Magnuson House and asked about the roof's age, past repairs, and termite inspections. She supported involving local businesses, noting nearby roofers might offer discounts due to the home's historic value. Barbara Ready, Chair of the Historic Resources Preservation Board, clarified that historic designation only applies to a building's exterior, not interior work. She supported the idea of a metal roof and solar panels, noting some might object but she would not. She thanked the board for allocating $300,000 to historic preservation, especially after 12 years without a dedicated planner. She expressed concern that more funding may be needed and emphasized the project's potential to revitalize Ocean Avenue without adding dense development. Susan Oyer urged the CRA to relocate the Andrews House next to the Magnuson House to create a historic compound and economic driver, similar to Delray. She supported the coffee and tea house proposal and stressed acting quickly before potential state legislation limits future opportunities. Cindy Falco DiCorrado supported creating a historic village around the Andrews and Magnuson houses to help revitalize downtown. She said the area lacks attractions, leaving residents with nothing to do, and expressed frustration over past designs ignoring community input from charrettes. She urged the CRA to focus on building a vibrant, walkable downtown with small shops, cafes, and local charm before bringing in more residents. Chair Shelton closed public comment. Board Member Kelley clarified that the $300,000 allocated for historic preservation is a starting point, with the understanding that additional investment will likely be needed for the homes and their restoration. 16. CRA Projects in Progress A. MLK Jr. Boulevard Corridor Mixed-Use Project Update (d/b/a Heart of Boynton Shops) B. CRA Economic & Business Development Grant Program Update C. Social Media & Print Marketing Update CRA Board Meeting Boynton Beach, FL March 20, 2025 17. Future Agenda Items A. Continued discussion and Consideration of the Second Amendment to the Purchase and Development Agreement between the CRA and BB QOZ, LLC for the 115 N. Federal Highway Mixed Use Project (aka The Pierce) 18. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 9:06 P.M. Tammy St. zione, 1 ►I P Deputy City Clerk